Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (2024)

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If you’re looking for some family vacation packing tips that will help you feel more organized, prepared, and less stressed for your upcoming family vacation, we’ve got you covered!

As a family of 5 who loves to travel, we’ve picked up a lot of useful packing strategies over the years and have finally found a great flow to preparing and packing for our family vacations.

This post will discuss our expert tips, as well as dish on some of the best and most useful packing essentials to make your family packing routine a breeze.

After reading these fantastic family vacation packing tips, you too will be able to pack like a pro and make your vacation as simplified and stress-free as can be!

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Table of Contents

Family Vacation Packing Tips

Before any family vacation, it is essential that you are outfitted with the proper luggage, bags, and backpacks for the type (and duration) of your trip.

Likewise, with the addition of each family member who will be joining you comes the need for additional clothing, toiletries, and miscellaneous that you’ll need to remember to pack.

This may mean having to either purchase more luggage or borrow extra pieces from a friend or neighbor if you’re traveling with a larger group.

Leave bulky items behind, and instead opt for travel-size/portable versions of necessities such as these travel bassinets and baby beds.

If the thought of having to pack for your entire family is still somewhat anxiety-provoking, however, we’ve got you covered with more expert tips!

In fact, here’s where to start…

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (1)

1. Check the Weather

Rainy? Cold? Hot? Cool in the evenings?

Having a general idea of what the weather will be like while you travel will help determine the type of clothes that you will need to pack.

This will also help determine the non-essentials that should be left behind.

Make it a point to check the weather forecast for your destination the day that you begin packing.

Check the weather forecast again the day before you depart so that you can make any last-minute changes or additions.

Additional planning tip: No matter what the weather, be sure to bring a light jacket or evening cover-up when traveling to warmer climates.

If you have been exposed to the sun all day, once it finally sets, you are bound to get chilly.

2. Start With A Packing List

Once you’ve determined your destination, what it is that you’ll be doing, and have checked the weather, refer to a dependable packing list.

Either write out, or print off a hard copy of an electronic packing list so that you can physically check-off items that you have accounted for.

The most reliable checklists that we frequently refer to include our camping checklist, beach checklist, Mexico packing list, and road trip checklist.

As a gift for you, click the following image for a copy of our FREE Family Vacation Essentials Checklist that is both customizable and printable.

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (2)

3. Pack in Advance

Though every fiber in your body wants to procrastinate, do not give in.

Commit to packing 3 days in advance in order to develop a good packing routine.

Packing ahead of time will help you feel organized and decrease the stress that typically comes from packing for an entire family.

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (3)

4. Do Not Overpack

Avoid bringing “just in case” items.

Likewise, bring only the outfits that match how many days you are traveling for, and what you will be doing on each day of your trip.

If you are traveling by air, consider wearing the same outfit home that you wore on the way there.

Likewise, pack a few simple layering pieces that can be worn interchangeably and more than once.

Finally, traveling with small children typically yields feeling the need to bring a ton of child gear.

Strike a balance between bringing the necessities along with a few extras such as a few books or tows to entertain themselves along with their favorite stuffed animal.

Additional planning tip: Worried that you’ve possibly overpacked? Be sure that you own and use a handheld luggage scale in order to prevent ever getting to the airport with an overweight suitcase.

Store this little gadget in your suitcase throughout the duration of your travels and be sure to weigh its contents again before the way home.

Family Vacation Packing Tips: Suitcases & Clothing

My first suggestion is to determine how many suitcases you are going to commit to bringing on your family vacation.

We limit how much luggage we bring when flying based on the cost to check bags and the amount of work it takes to lug them around the airport.

Likewise, we consider the number of suitcases to pack when traveling by ground due to the space limitations of which vehicle we are driving.

If you find that you start going overboard on packing, do not give in and add another suitcase.Instead, decrease what you have packed.

Clothing Essentials

Make note of how many days you’ll be traveling and how many nights you’ll be sleeping away from home.

Do not be tempted to bring “what if” items or more items than the number of days that you will be on vacation.

Next, refer to your travel plan and consider what you are going to be doing on each individual day of the trip as well as how often will you change locations.

Likewise, visualize the different scenarios you’ll be dressing for.

Plane rides, hikes, theme parks, days at the beach, evenings out?

Get an idea of what you really need and commit to wearing a designated outfit on each particular day.

Organize Clothing By Sets

Stack clothes by outfit, not by individual piece. Further, stack them in the order that they will be worn.

The outfit for the last day of the trip should be on the bottom of the pile, and the outfit for the first morning of the trip on the top of the pile.

Stacking outfits in the order that they will be worn is an invaluable packing tip that will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

It totally eliminates the need to dig through a suitcase and create outfits each morning.

Similarly, stacking your outfits in order helps keep your suitcase looking neat and tidy.

Additional planning tip: Consider bringing tops and bottoms that can be worn in different ways.

Likewise, wearing the same top but with different accessories allows tops to be worn more than once.

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (4)

5. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are quite possibly the best, and most convenient packing essential ever. I personally use them every time I travel.

These soft-sided, zippered, fabric pouches are sold in sets and come in all different colors and sizes.

Packing cubes should not be confused with compression bags, however.

While compression bags use a one-way pressure valve to compress clothing in order to save space, packing cubes are used to keep your clothes organized, accessible, and wrinkle free.

They compartmentalize similar size items to streamline packing and more efficiently utilize interior luggage space.

Likewise, their modular make-up optimizes space and makes them super easy to stack and arrange inside your suitcase.

I pack individual cubes for each member of my family and can easily transfer them to drawers once we arrive at our final destination.

If you take away only one of these family vacation packing tips, let it be to use packing cubes!

They will completely revolutionize the way that you travel.

Additional planning tip: I have personally owned several different varieties of packing cubes, but these ones here are the best! They are lightweight and flexible, as well as large enough to hold several outfits.

With durable zippers and a tear and water-resistant design, I will never own another set.

Click the image below to snatch your set today!

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (5)

6. Purchase Travel-Size Toiletries

Avoid packing full-sized shampoos, shave gel, or lotions as every toiletry item can be found in a travel size quantity these days.

Bulky toiletries, along with sunscreen and shoes, are the main culprits of a cluttered and/or overweight suitcase.

By purchasing travel-sized toiletries you’ll find that they are super convenient to use and then dispose of before coming home.

7. Bring Medications From Home

I tend to bring a small pharmacy along when I travel and I suggest you do the same.

In packing both adult and child doses of over-the-counter medications, I have a lot of peace and security knowing if medical ailments arise, everyone in my family will be covered.

My personal stash of medication that I bring along on our family travels includes fever-reducers, headache relievers, antacids, antidiarrheals, allergy, and cold medications, as well as eye drops and antibiotic ointment.

Consider taking along suggested as-needed prescription medications if you have discussed specific travel concerns with your health care provider.

Family Vacation Packing Tips: The Finishing Touches

The inconsistency among airline carry-on sizes, weight restrictions, and baggage fees is pretty mind-boggling.

Avoid surprises at the airport by doing a quick Google Search on baggage policies and restrictions before heading to the airport.

8. Eliminate Shoes That Aren’t Practical

Shoes are bulky and weigh down your suitcase. For this reason, wear your heaviest pair of shoes on the plane if traveling by air.

Consider your destination and your travel itinerary and limit yourself to bringing only one pair of shoes per category of clothing.

For instance, 1 pair of athletic shoes, 1 pair of street/comfortable shoes, 1 pair of beach/pool shoes, 1 pair of evening wear shoes.

If you think your shoes may get dirty or wet at your travel destination, pack plastic grocery bags or travel shoe bags to place shoes in for the return trip home. This will prevent the other items in your suitcase from getting dirty.

9. Don’t Forget Last-Minute Items

Despite having done the majority of your packing ahead of time, there are so many last-minute items that you will need to remember before leaving for your destination.

To avoid the responsibility of continually having to remind yourself of what not to forget, simply write out a list of the items that you are unable to pack ahead of time.

Common items that cannot be packed until the day of departure include:

  • cell phone
  • cell phone charger
  • I pads
  • I pad chargers
  • kids’ blanky/comfort toys
  • pillows
  • toothbrush/toothpaste
  • hygiene and hair products
  • contact lens case
  • prescriptions
  • refrigerated items
  • house keys

10. Plan Ahead For Your Return

Once you have packed and weighed your suitcases prior to departure, take a photo of how your suitcases are packed. Mimic a similar layout as you pack to go home so that your suitcase does not end up being overweight.

Bring an extra bag or leave additional space in your suitcase if you anticipate making purchases from your destination that will need to be brought home.

Another consideration is to always double your travel food list in bringing an additional supply of snacks for the return trip home.

In fact, I hide a gallon-size Ziplock bag of additional snacks in my suitcase that I keep hidden until our return home.

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (6)

11. Do A Final Inspection

Leave your suitcases open over the course of the 3 days prior to departure. Add things at your leisure and occasionally gaze at their contents to imagine what you could possibly be missing.

The day before your trip perform a final inspection of everything that you have packed. Review all of your family vacation packing tips one more time.

Imagine each day of your travel plan and envision what you will and will not need.

Do you have too many shoes? Do you have enough toiletries, snacks, and items for entertainment?

If you’ve missed anything, now is the time to pack them before you leave.

Hopefully, this post will have you packing like a pro! What questions do you have about the tips mentioned above?

Jen

Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

If you liked our family vacation packing tips, click here to read our Related Posts:

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Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan (2024)

FAQs

Family Vacation Packing Tips: How to Pack Like A Pro | Travel With A Plan? ›

The Rolling Method

Everything stays secure by placing each piece right up against the other. Rolling works especially well for items like sweaters, pants, and t-shirts, and because rubber bands aren't necessary, your clothes will be wrinkle-free upon arrival—no fashion faux pas here.

How do you pack for vacation like a pro? ›

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro
  1. Pare down before you go. ...
  2. Reduce the weight of your luggage. ...
  3. Use packing cubes. ...
  4. Lose the liquid toiletries. ...
  5. Scope out your destination using reliable sources. ...
  6. Match your activity plans to the forecast. ...
  7. Plan for only one main activity a day.
Nov 21, 2019

What is the most efficient packing method for travel? ›

The Rolling Method

Everything stays secure by placing each piece right up against the other. Rolling works especially well for items like sweaters, pants, and t-shirts, and because rubber bands aren't necessary, your clothes will be wrinkle-free upon arrival—no fashion faux pas here.

What is 54321 packing for kids? ›

The 54321 packing method means that all you need are five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, three pairs of shoes, two swimsuits, two bags, and one of each of a few miscellaneous accessories.

How do you simplify travel packing? ›

Keep reading to learn how to pack faster and smarter — without the stress.
  1. Roll clothes and pack them first. ...
  2. Choose travel-friendly fabrics. ...
  3. Pack the first outfit you'll want to wear on top. ...
  4. Place heavy items at the base. ...
  5. Layer plastic dry cleaning bags between clothes. ...
  6. Use packing cubes. ...
  7. Avoid over- or under-packing.
May 18, 2023

What does everyone forget to pack for vacation? ›

We've all overlooked toothpaste, razors, deodorant, etc. Yes, they are easy items that can be bought at the local drugstore, but trying to find a shop as soon as you get to your destination is no way to begin a vacation. Bathroom items are usually the last items to be packed, so it makes sense they are often forgotten.

What are two keys to packing well when you are on vacation? ›

6 Vacation Packing Tips
  • 1) Make A List. ...
  • 2) Roll Your Clothes. ...
  • 3) Pack Shoes In Plastic Bags. ...
  • 4) Use Packing Cubes. ...
  • 5) Pack Toiletries In A Clear Plastic Bag. ...
  • 6) Pack A Small Day Bag. ...
  • Bonus Tip: Don't Overpack!

What is the rule of 3 travel packing? ›

While we've covered other packing systems here on Inc.com, Appelt's is even easier and boils down to a simple principle we'll call the "Rule of 3." "Appelt says the key to a light, functional travel wardrobe is having pieces that can be worn in at least three different ways," reports Insider.

What is the least efficient packing shape? ›

Octagons with rounded corners leave just under ten percent of the available space empty when packed as tight as can be. Heptagons are a bit worse still, but, Kallus shows, no corner-rounding can make them even worse.

How do you fold clothes for travel to avoid wrinkles? ›

Roll and place in your suitcase. When folding a dress shirt for travel, fold the sleeves over on the back and then fold the shirt in half to form a rectangle. Roll the rectangle from bottom to top. This technique is straightforward, prevents wrinkles, and saves space.

What is the 333 packing rule? ›

What is the '333 packing' method? The concept is fairly simple: Choose three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes to create different outfit combinations. The result is more than a dozen looks that fit easily in your carry-on luggage.

What is the 3 2 1 rule of packing? ›

Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. The list should be adjusted to suit your needs.

How many packing cubes do I need for family of 4? ›

Generally, four to six packing cubes per person works for most occasions.

What is the 1 to 6 packing rule? ›

Consider the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule

One general guideline is to pack one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops (short or long-sleeve or outer layer), five pairs of socks, six pairs of underwear. This should be enough to last you for two weeks.

How do you pack for a trip step by step? ›

How to Pack in 5 Easy Steps
  1. Distribute weight intelligently. Put heavier items on the bottom of your suitcase. ...
  2. Use bags to organize. Ziplocs are great for small accessories and toiletries. ...
  3. Roll your casual clothes. ...
  4. Fold sweaters and delicate items. ...
  5. Don't forget the laundry.
May 12, 2009

What is the rule of packing? ›

Consider the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule

One general guideline is to pack one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops (short or long-sleeve or outer layer), five pairs of socks, six pairs of underwear. This should be enough to last you for two weeks.

How many outfits should I pack for a week vacation? ›

Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. The list should be adjusted to suit your needs.

How do I pack for a 10 day vacation? ›

Follow the 5-4-3-2-1 packing trick, where you pack five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, three pairs of shoes, two swimsuits, two bags, and one of each of a few miscellaneous accessories. If you're opting for a carry-on, mix and match items in your travel capsule and have a versatile wardrobe.

How do I have a perfect vacation? ›

10 Tips on How to Plan the Perfect Vacation
  1. Choose a Region & Time of Year. ...
  2. Narrow It down to a Specific Destination. ...
  3. Find the Perfect Amount of Time Away. ...
  4. Start a Countdown. ...
  5. Take Care of the Practical. ...
  6. Plan out Activities. ...
  7. Or Plan to Do Nothing. ...
  8. Consider Going Tech-Free.

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