Discover the top 10 must-have items for travelling with kids in our ultimate packing guide.
By Anneka Rose
We’ve all been there – the night before the family holiday, surrounded by a mountain of stuff, wondering if we’ve packed enough (or too much!). Travelling with kids can feel like you’re moving house, but fear not! I’ve put together the ultimate list of the top 10 essentials to make your journey smoother, lighter, and, dare I say, a bit more stylish. So, let’s dive in!
“REMEMBER, THE GOAL IS TO CREATE MEMORIES, NOT TO PACK YOUR ENTIRE HOUSE.”
1. The Magic of Multi-purpose Gadgets
Think compact and versatile. A car seat and stroller combo? A bassinet that doubles as a portable changing table and playpen? Yes, please! These gadgets are space savers and life savers. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of the parenting world – you’ll wonder how you ever travelled without them.
2. Snack Attack Survival Kit
We’re talking spill-proof snack cups, reusable water bottles, and a mix of healthy nibbles. Snacks are not just food; they’re bargaining tools, peacekeepers, and meltdown preventers. Never underestimate the power of a well-timed snack!
3. Portable Entertainment Pack
Load up your tablet with educational games and favourite shows (don’t forget the headphones!). But also, pack a few old-school surprises like colouring books, sticker sets, and travel-friendly board games. Sometimes low-tech wins the day.
4. Comforts of Home
A favourite cuddly toy or blanket can be the difference between a peaceful journey and a chaotic one. These familiar items are like a piece of home for your little ones, offering comfort in new environments.
5. First Aid ‘Fairy Godmother’ Kit
Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, paracetamol for kids, and any prescription meds. It’s like carrying a little fairy godmother in your bag – ready to kiss away the ‘owies’ and tackle those unexpected fevers.
6. Weather-Proof Wardrobe Wonders
Layers, layers, layers! And don’t forget hats and sunscreen for sunny destinations, or cosy hats and mittens for cooler climes. Dressing your kids in layers means you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
7. Document Organiser Extraordinaire
Keep passports, boarding passes, and important documents in one easy-to-access place. A travel wallet or folder is perfect. You don’t need the added stress of a game of ‘find the passport’ at the check-in desk.
8. Sleepytime Saviours
Inflatable neck pillows, cosy blankets, and eye masks. Whether you’re in a car, plane, or train, helping your little ones nap can be the key to a harmonious journey.
9. Change of Clothes (for everyone!)
Accidents happen – be prepared. Pack a change of clothes for the kids and, yes, even for yourself. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck wearing the aftermath of a mid-flight juice spill.
10. The ‘Just-In-Case’ Bag
Think extra nappies, wipes, a spare dummy, and a few plastic bags for dirty clothes or emergencies. It’s your safety net, ensuring you’re ready for anything.
Remember, the goal is to create memories, not to pack your entire house. Each trip is an adventure, a story in the making. So, breathe, pack that bag, and get ready for the wonderful chaos of family travel.
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