When it comes to travelling with children, packing can often be a headache for parents. Don’t tie yourself in knots! Here we give you ten tips to help you take the essentials, without leaving anything behind. Make your journey an unforgettable experience for you and your family.
1- The list
Before embarking on the suitcase, make a list on a scrap of paper or your mobile screen so you can cross things out as you pack and you can prioritise items.
2- Toiletries
Toiletry items such as toothbrushes are the things that are most frequently forgotten! Bear them in mind and pack them first. Towels will be provided if you’re going to stay in a hotel, saving some space in the suitcase.
If you’re travelling with children however it’s better to take the shampoo and soap they use normally, in case they’re sensitive to certain products. By the way, in summer don’t forget to take sun lotion!
3- Clothes
How much clothing should I take? This is the big holiday question, which is why working out how many days you’re going to be away from home is the best plan. So take a set of clothing per day and a couple more to deal with any unforeseen circumstance.
If all this doesn’t fit in the case, take some detergent so you can wash a change of clothes. If you’re staying in a hotel life could hardly be easier, because you can make use of the laundry service.
4- Medicines
If there’s one thing that you mustn’t forget to pack it’s the medication your kids normally take, for example for temperatures or a sore throat; also plasters, some kind of cream for possible scrapes and scratches and insect repellent. No-one knows when an emergency might occur, so we have to plan for every eventuality!
5- Entertainment
You know their likes, so take their favourite doll, an entertaining book, or a practical toy for the journey.
6- Hand luggage
If you’re going by car you’ll have everything within reach, but if you’re going by plane be careful with the hand luggage. Remember that liquids mustn’t exceed 100 ml per container and should be kept in a sealed, transparent bag. It’s also prohibited to take any sharp object (knives, scissors, etc.), if you want to avoid an unpleasant hold-up prior to boarding.
7- Food
I almost forgot! Kids invariably become peckish when travelling. Take a snack you know they like, water and wet wipes for afterwards.
8- Getting around with babies
When the kids are small and still not walking you need to take a buggy; try to ensure that it’s light, practical and easy to fold. If you’re going to the countryside and plan to do a lot of walking, a child sling for the parents to wear may be the most practical solution.
9- Remember
Don’t forget that at your holiday destination there will always be a host of shops where you’ll be able to buy everything!
Get yourself well organised in advance. Foresight is always the best solution when it comes to travelling with kids. Relax and enjoy your holiday!
