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You’ve been counting down the days and your long-awaited family vacation is almost here. You’ve got your list of places to see and things to do, but there’s still one important item you’ve been putting off; packing.
Preparing for family travel, especially if it’s international travel, can be daunting, but we’re here to help. To take the guesswork out of the process and make sure you don’t forget any essential items, we’ve put together this family vacation packing list and printable checklist. Scan the list and make sure you have all the necessary travel gear so you can set sail, take off or hit the road for some family fun.
General Travel Essentials for Kids and Babies
What’s a family vacation without tiny travel companions? While kids and babies may not be able to pack their own bags, it’s important for you to make sure you have all the necessary items they may need during travel and once you reach your vacation spot.
While these items may change slightly depending on your mode of travel and the age of your children, here are our travel tips and recommendations for travel essentials for kids.
- Car seat(s)
- Stroller(s)
- Diaper bag
- Baby carrier
- Bottles, sippy cups and other feeding items
- Food and snacks
- Pack and play, portable sleeper or Dockot
- Backpack or travel bag
- Chargers for portable devices
Toiletries
Depending on where you’re staying and the length of your trip, your list of toiletries may change. Here are some toiletry items you may want to consider packing for yourself and your kids.
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Baby powder
- Rash cream
- Baby wash/bubble bath
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Q-tips
- Hairbrush and/or comb
- Body wash or bar soap
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Moisturizer
- Extra ziploc bags and pouches
Clothing and Accessories
You’ve probably already checked the weather report for your destination but weather can be pretty unpredictable, especially in certain regions. If the forecast says it will be 80 degrees and sunny, by all means, pack your swimsuits, flip-flops and beach essentials. But don’t forget to pack for unforeseen circumstances like cold weather, wind or rain, especially if traveling during the winter months.
- T-shirts
- Pants
- Shorts
- Dresses and cover-ups
- Shoes: flip flops, water shoes and hiking or walking shoes
- Underwear
- Socks
- Jackets and rain jackets
- Sweatshirts
- Umbrella
- Sun hat
Pro tip: always pack an extra change of clothes in your carry-on bag for unforeseen spills and accidents.
Entertainment and Toys
No family travel packing list is complete without some items to entertain yourself and your family members along the way. We recommend these items for your tiny travelers.
- Kids books
- iPad/tablet (make sure to download any movies or shows before you go)
- V-tech tablet or other small electronics
- Audiobooks
- Playlist
- Puzzles and games
- Interactive travel toys
Airplane Packing List for Kids
An airplane, not to mention navigating TSA, can be an exciting place for some kids and a scary place for others. Regardless of if your kids love or loathe flying, an airplane trip with kids can be long and boring so it’s important to pack essential items as well as some items for entertainment.
- Earmuffs
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Blanket
- Stuffed animal or lovie
- Crayons and/or markers
- Coloring books or activity books
- Snacks
- Tablet
- Headphones
- Travel Pillow
Road Trip Essentials
If you’re driving rather than flying, you’re not limited to just what you can fit in a carry-on. But you also don’t want to overload your car so that you and your travel companions are uncomfortable. Consider these items to prepare for a road trip with your kids
- Car seat
- Extra clothes
- Portable toilet (for potty training toddlers)
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Snacks
- Drinks (water, juice, etc.)
- Tablet
- Headphones
- Age-appropriate audiobooks
- Toys
- Games
- Activity Books
Outdoor Gear
Whether you plan to explore the outdoors and camp with your family or you just want to be prepared for the unknown, make sure to pack outdoor gear for yourself and your little ones.
- Tent
- Sleeping bags
- Jackets
- Life jacket
- Sweatshirts
- Ponchos
- Blankets
- Hiking boots or outdoor shoes
- Water bottles
- Umbrella
- Food
- Backpack or hiking pack
- Flashlight or headlamp
Important Travel Documents
The list below includes all the necessary documents you should include in your family vacation packing list. If possible, consider making copies so you don’t have to worry about losing them during travel.
- Applicable tickets or boarding passes
- Passports/travel visas
- ID cards
- Insurance cards
- Travel insurance
Medical Supplies
Medical supplies are important to add to your family vacation packing list both for everyday use and in case of emergency. Check the list below for the items you need when traveling with your little ones.
- Sunscreen
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter motion sickness medications
- First-Aid Kit
- Vapor rub
- Teething relief
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
Family Vacation Printable Checklist
To help make sure you don’t forget any important items, we have a free family vacation packing checklist you can use and check off as you add the items you need.
If you’re missing any essential items for your trip, we’re here to help. At GoodBuy Gear, we like to be there for life’s most important moments with the packing tips and baby and kid gear you need for a stress-free vacation.
Here’s to making lifelong memories with your little ones. Safe travels!