As a mumma of two little ones, a furry companion, and a husband I know firsthand that traveling can be stressful. The thought of packing for a trip with little ones in tow can be overwhelming, but with some planning and preparation, I have found it is easier and less daunting. Here are some stress-free tips and tricks for packing for children when traveling that I have found useful.

Make A List.

Before you start packing, create a list of everything your child will need for the trip. Include clothing, toiletries, entertainment, and any other essentials. This will ensure that you don’t forget anything important and help you stay organized. I find writing this list a week before you are due to leave helps you remember anything you may have forgotten as you are using things daily for your little ones. I always make a copy of this list so I know I have everything when we are packing at the end of our trip.

Pack by outfit.

To make getting dressed in the morning easier, pack complete outfits together. This way, you won’t have to dig through the suitcase to find matching items. I also find it useful for anyone else getting the children dressed or for your older more independent children to dress themselves. I use large ziplock freezer bags with a sticky label on the front where I write what each bag contains. It’s also a good idea to pack a few extra outfits in case of spills, accidents, or changes in plans.

Toiletry Bag.

Have a toiletry bag that is always packed with your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and any other toiletries you use on the regular. I find this useful as it is always ready and I don’t have to worry about forgetting anything as it would be the last thing I packed.

Don’t forget the entertainment.

Pack some entertainment for your child to keep them occupied during the trip. This could include books, toys, games, or electronic devices. Just make sure to bring headphones if you’re bringing electronic devices to avoid them annoying noisy games.

Consider the climate.

Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the climate you’ll be visiting. If you’re traveling to a colder destination, make sure to pack warm clothing and outerwear. If you’re going to a warmer climate, don’t forget sunscreen and light, breathable clothing. Also, be mindful of the temperature changing at different times of the day.

Pack snacks.

Pack plenty of snacks for your child to munch on during the trip. This will not only keep them full and happy but can also help prevent meltdowns. Consider packing some healthy options like fruit or veggies, but don’t forget to throw in some treats as well. There’s nothing worse than hungry children.

Bring a first-aid kit.

Pack a first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, sting relief, and any medication your child may need. You never know when someone might get a headache or scrape a knee, so it’s always better to be prepared. I found a really good spray on plaster on amazon that is handy to have to hand.

Let your child help.

If your child is old enough, let them help with the packing process. This can help them feel involved and excited about the trip. Plus, they may have some ideas for things they want to bring along.

Traveling with children doesn’t have to be stressful. With some planning and preparation, you can make sure everything runs smoothly. Remember, the key is to stay organized, pack smart, and bring plenty of entertainment and snacks to keep everyone happy and content. Safe travels!