Nothing brings a family closer together than traveling somewhere exciting! With the holiday season right around the corner, more people will be visiting their loved ones, and it’s important to make sure you don’t forget anything while you’re on the go. Check out the special packing list below to ensure that each member of your family has an unforgettable family trip.

Things to bring

Clothes 

Make sure to bring the right amount of clothes for how long you are staying at your destination. Bring along any activity-specific outfits you might need for exercise, the outdoors, swimming, or enjoying a luxurious night on the town. It doesn’t hurt to bring along a few extra clothes in case you don’t have access to a laundry machine at your travel destination. 

• Shirts

• Pants(leggings, jeans)/shorts

• Socks/shoes

• Underwear (bring more than you think you need... just in case!)

• Shoes (comfortable walking shoes, sandals, dressy shoes) 

• Heavy or rain jacket

• Pajamas 

• A suit/dress

Snacks

Be sure to bring a snack that every member of your family will love. Take into consideration any food allergies or food restrictions for little children. Choose snacks that won’t be messy if you are traveling by car, and that’s easily disposable. If you are flying to your destination, be sure to choose snacks without a strong odor that don’t make a loud noise as you chew. 

• Healthy options (fruits, veggies, pita chips and hummus, sandwiches)

• Savory (jerky, assorted nuts, crackers with cheese, chips)

• Sweet (cookies, sodas, licorice, candy)

• Classic snacks (goldfish, animal crackers, granola bars, popcorn)

Electronics

Electronics are helpful to check the weather of where you’re going, look up street names and addresses, and provide entertainment throughout the journey. Computers are handy if there is still work that needs to be done while vacationing. Fun, interactive games and videos can downloaded onto a tablet for children to watch. Make sure to document the experience with a camera! And don’t forget to bring the electronic chargers or outlet adaptors if necessary. 

• Cellphones

• Laptop

• Tablet 

• Earbuds 

• Cameras

First Aid Kit

It’s better to be safe than sorry when traveling with family, especially if you’re going to an area that’s unfamiliar. Before you go, be sure to look up information about the nearest emergency room so you can be prepared. Bring a first aid kit containing the following: 

• Bandaids

• Over the counter pain medicine

• Neosporin 

• Gloves/gauze

• Epipen for allergies

• Benadryl 

• Safety pins

• Q tips

• Scissors

Toiletries

These toiletries will help you freshen up to look and feel like your best self while you’re away from home. Just a reminder that on a plane, all liquids must be under 3.4oz in your carry-on bag and any size liquids are available in checked bags. 

• Shampoo/conditioner

• Hair gel

• Body soap

• Face wash

• Deodorant 

• Makeup remover 

• Contact lens case/solution (or glasses holder)

• Toothbrush & toothpaste 

• Feminine hygiene products 

• Hair brush

• Hand sanitizer

Important documents

If you are flying to your destination, all flights require you to bring your ID. With out of the country flights, a passport is needed. If you are purchasing travel insurance, that is a wise thing to take with you. Any boarding passes or confirmation numbers for hotels are necessary. A drivers license, travel itinerary details, and ticket for events while traveling are all important as well.

Supplies for children

Small children- A fussy baby is never fun! Diaper bags are have great storage to keep all of your baby’s necessary supplies in one spot. Babies need bottles, pacifiers, formula, teething toys, onesies, diapers, wipes, rash ointment, blankets. Toddlers need snacks, toys, diapers, books. 

Teenagers- Make sure your teenagers have something to keep them entertained, any homework they may need to work on while they’re away, earbuds, downloaded movies, pillows/blankets, and snacks. Be sure to set the trip expectations with your children before traveling so they know what is expected of them and so that they can enjoy the trip too!

Sun protection

If you are going somewhere especially sunny, bring SPF products to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. 

• Chapstick

• Sunscreen 

• Sunglasses 

• Sunhat

Miscellaneous

• Emergency cash. Note: some places in the United States are requiring their customers to pay by card or with exact change. Sales tax varies from state to state.

• Music

• A facial covering to help decrease the spread of COVID-19

• Backpack

• Don’t forget your keys!
  
  

Don’t feel like planning and organizing a family trip but still want to go on an action-packed adventure? Book today with Acanela Expeditions! Acanela provides culturally-immersing, international trip packages for all ages and group sizes. If you want to stay closer to home, Acanela offers unique glamping experiences at various national parks within the United States. There is something to do for everyone, you’ll never be bored. 

Post written by Annelin Stephens