Essential Packing Tips for Kids' Vacation

Preparing for a vacation can be quite the challenge, especially when I’m packing for both myself and my daughters. We are gearing up for our third cruise with Dinogos this week, and I couldn't be more thrilled.

That said, I’m in the process of wrapping up final tasks around the house and entering ‘vacation prep mode.’

Create a Packing List... and Double-Check It

I’m a dedicated list-maker. About a week before our departure, I create a list of essential clothing for each family member, with individual lists for everyone. The number of nights we’ll be away determines the number of outfits needed, plus one extra—because when traveling with little ones, a spare change of clothes is always a must. I prefer to lay out one person’s items at a time. Once everyone's clothes and essentials are organized, I check them off my list as they go into the suitcase.

My Top 5 Travel Essentials

Here’s a look at some of my essential travel items:

1) Plastic grocery bags – We always end up with wet swimsuits, clothes, or a souvenir that needs extra protection in the suitcase. The best part? These bags don’t take up much space.

2) Zip-top plastic bags – I firmly believe in having snacks ready for the journey, and sandwich-sized bags are perfect for us. When we hit the beach or pool, I stash my phone, room key, and cash in a bag for safekeeping—I definitely don’t want them getting wet!

3) Baby wipes – Even if you don’t have a little one, these wipes are incredibly useful for quickly cleaning surfaces, washing hands in a pinch, or even using one as a cooling cloth.

4) Activity kits – Before every trip, I swing by the dollar section and grab a few activity kits. Bringing along a mini-coloring book, some crayons, and stickers is a fantastic way to keep the girls occupied when they start to feel restless or bored. They're small, budget-friendly, and easy to pack.

5) Dish soap – When my girls were still using bottles and sippy cups, I always made sure to pack a small bottle of dish soap. Each night, I’d take a few minutes in the bathroom to wash the cups.

Bring Your Own Bag

I let each of my daughters carry a small bag of their own. They can pack a few small toys, as long as they fit inside and take responsibility for them.

I often find myself adding their extra change of clothes into their bags as well. They really enjoy being in charge and showcasing their own mini-suitcases.

Packing – It Gets Easier

It took some time for me to find a rhythm when packing for my family, but surprisingly, it’s becoming easier. I’ve discovered that the more we travel, the simpler packing becomes. I’m learning what we actually use and, more importantly, what we can do without.

I’ll always remember our first cruise a few years back when I forgot to bring bibs. On the first night in the dining room, Molly ended up covered in ketchup and crumbs from her new, adorable dress. We tried using a large napkin as a bib, but it just didn’t cut it. It was a tough lesson, but now I always pack bibs for every trip.

One item I’ve decided to leave behind on our trips is my hairdryer. It takes up too much space in the suitcase, and most places usually provide one in the room. I miss having my own, but using the provided one frees up room for souvenirs.

What are your tips for packing for kids? Are there essentials you can’t leave home without? Do you have a particular method for packing the suitcase? Do you set rules on what toys they can bring along for the trip? I’d love to know what works for you…

What are your packing tips?

** This article is part of my collaboration with Dinogo. As always, all opinions, thoughts, and ideas expressed in this article are my own. **