Planning a family vacation can be exciting, but it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to packing. It can be challenging to know what to bring and what to leave behind. To make things easier, we've put together a list of the 10 essential items you should pack for your next family vacation. These items will ensure that you have everything you need to enjoy your trip, without any unnecessary stress or headaches.

Essential Items to Pack for Your Next Family Vacation

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential item that should always be included when packing for your next family vacation. Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, and being prepared can make a big difference in the outcome of an emergency. A well-stocked first aid kit should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. It's important to check the expiration dates of items in the first aid kit regularly and replace them as needed to ensure that everything is up to date and effective in case of an emergency. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry, and packing a first aid kit is a small step that can go a long way in keeping your family safe during your vacation.

Remember to pack any daily medications. (As a pharmacist, I need to remind you to request your refills a week in advance!)

—>Check out our complete Travel First Aid Kit for Kids for a list of our favorite first aid essentials!

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an absolute must-have item when packing for a family vacation. Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is important to prevent sunburn, skin damage, and even skin cancer. When choosing a sunscreen, it is important to opt for a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF of at least 30. It is also essential to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Don't forget to pack enough sunscreen for everyone in the family to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time in the sun.

Travel Documents

When planning a family vacation, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of choosing a destination, booking flights, and planning activities. However, it's important not to forget about the necessary travel documents that you and your family will need to bring along. Depending on your destination and mode of transportation, this may include passports, visas, driver's licenses, birth certificates, and other important identification documents. Not having the proper travel documents can cause unnecessary stress and potentially ruin your entire trip, so be sure to double-check what you need and pack them safely in your travel bag.

—>Check out our post about the Essential Travel Documents for Your Family Vacation!

Entertainment

Long flights or road trips can be boring, especially for kids. Pack books, tablets, and games to keep everyone entertained during the journey. You’d be amazed at how long your child can be entertained with stickers and a notebook. Play old school games like tic-tac-toe or Dots and Boxes! We also remind ourselves that boredom isn’t ALL bad!

—>Here are some of our favorite travel entertainment ideas: Travel Card Games, Children’s Travel Books and Road Trip Games

Comfortable Shoes

One of the essential items to pack for your next family vacation is a comfortable pair of shoes. Walking and exploring new places are an integral part of traveling, and comfortable shoes can make all the difference in your experience. It's important to consider the destination and activities when choosing the best pair of shoes for your trip. If you're planning on hiking, you'll need sturdy and supportive shoes, while sandals or flip-flops may be suitable for a beach vacation. Remember, comfort is key, so make sure everyone breaks in their shoes before your trip to avoid blisters and sore feet.

Snacks and Water

Hunger and dehydration can ruin the best of vacations, so don't forget to pack snacks and water for the journey. We try to balance “fun” and healthy snacks. We let our kids pack their favorite candy but also make sure we have some healthier snack options like granola, trail mix, and fruit.

—>Check out our favorite healthy snack options here!

Clothing

When it comes to packing for a family vacation, clothing is a crucial item to consider. Depending on the destination and activities planned, you'll want to pack clothing that is comfortable, practical, and appropriate for the weather conditions. Be sure to pack clothes that are easy to mix and match, and that can be layered for cooler weather or unexpected changes in temperature. If you don’t have access to laundry, don't forget to pack a few extra outfits in case of spills or accidents. Overall, the key is to pack practical and versatile pieces that can be worn multiple times during your trip. Jeans and outer layers can be worn without washing to help save packing space.

—>Check out our travel outfit ideas for packing inspiration!

Luggage & Packing Cubes

When it comes to choosing the best luggage for your next family vacation, it's important to consider the size, durability, and ease of use. Depending on the length of your trip and the number of family members traveling, you may want to opt for a larger suitcase or a set of luggage. Look for luggage made of sturdy materials like polycarbonate or aluminum, which can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Additionally, consider features like spinner wheels and telescoping handles for easier maneuverability through busy airports or hotels.

Packing cubes allow you to easily separate and categorize your clothing and other items, making it easy to find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase. They also compress your items, maximizing space and reducing wrinkles. When packing for a family vacation, using packing cubes for each family member can help keep everyone's belongings organized and easily accessible throughout the trip. Tip: We have a different color of packing cube for each member of our family!

Toiletries

Essentials like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and shampoo are a must, but it's also important to consider the size and weight of these items when packing. To save space and stay organized, consider packing toiletries in travel-sized containers or investing in a toiletry bag with compartments for each family member. You can also bring along wet wipes and hand sanitizer for easy cleanups on the go.

I’m not going to lie. Toiletries are the hardest thing for me to pack. I have an extensive nighttime skin care routine. I’ve learned to put that on hold if we’re traveling under a week. It pains me. But lugging around a bunch of stuff is also painful.

I have a toiletry bag that I keep stocked with my favorite items. The only things I add are my make-up, contacts and glasses!

Chargers

With all the electronics we use on a daily basis, including phones, tablets, and cameras, it's important to make sure they are fully charged and ready to use. Depending on the devices you plan to bring, you may need to pack different types of chargers, such as USB cables, wall chargers, or car chargers. It's also a good idea to bring a portable charger or power bank in case you need to recharge your devices on-the-go.

FAQs:

Q: What should I pack for my kids on a family vacation? A: Pack their favorite toys, games, and snacks to keep them entertained during the journey. Don't forget to bring extra clothes, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget anything that may help them sleep in a new environment like a stuffed animal or blanket.

Q: Should I bring a stroller on a family vacation? A: It depends on the destination and the age of your child. If you are traveling to a place where there will be a lot of walking or your child is too young to walk for long distances, then a stroller is a good idea. We were also fans of baby wearing when our children were little.

Packing for a family vacation doesn't have to be stressful. By packing these essential items, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip for everyone. Remember to plan ahead, pack wisely, and have fun exploring new destinations with your loved ones. Happy travels!