Monday, February 22, 2010

Packing List for Trips with Kids

A few friends recently asked me to share my thoughts on what "should" be brought on a trip with kids. As I started to prepare a list for their use I realized that there are multiple factors that can alter the list such as mode of transportation, a child's age, and the number of children traveling, but there are some basics that apply regardless of these factors. With that in mind here are a few lists that I hope you find useful. Yes, first time parents will benefit most from these but even for those parents who have multiple kids and trips under their belts it is always nice to try to pack less and to compare lists to ensure you're not forgetting something.

RENT OR BUY ONCE YOU ARRIVE

Whether you are traveling by land or air some items are so bulky and awkward to carry that you should consider renting or buying them once you arrive at your destination. This will save you frustration and possibly money (no extra baggage fees, or less weight= less gas). What about borrowing? Well, if this is your only option due to finances then you have to make due but borrowing creates a lot of possible problems. The items may be recalled, damaged, or dirty or even worse you may damage the item during use and depending on who you borrowed from it can make for a very sticky situation so using a reputable service is always best. No feelings to hurt.

RENTBUY
(at location or through service)
Stroller / Pram
Car Seat
Portable Crib or Play Yard
High Chair or booster
CARES harness
Carrier (front or back) or Framed back carrier
Diapers
Wipes
Formula
Baby Food
Bath items
Reusable plates, & utensils


UNIVERSAL ITEMS
Two outfits per day. (Regardless of age young kids are messier and more prone to food and potty accidents so it’s best to be prepared)
Something to sleep in each night
SUNBLOCK & Insect repellent
If they're still in diapers: Enough for your travel time (minimum 1 days worth- more if your trip will be longer than 10 hours)
A small bag with toys, books, stuffed animals. (these can be in your diaper bag for babies and a separate bag for toddlers & older
Medicine for kids (gas drops, diaper cream, acetaminophen or ibuprofen, teething tablets or gel, Neosporin, band aids, allergy meds, nail clipper, hydrocortisone, Imodium, any prescriptions)
Music (compilations of songs your child likes that are grouped by upbeat, slow, and favorites... these can be on each child's music player or CDs you play in the car)
DVD player, video games, other electronic games (for the babies a DVD of their favorite like Mickey Mouse or Elmo can help settle them down... for the older kids any of these can entertain)
A small digital camera and/or small video recorder are great to have. Hopefully they are small enough to fit in your diaper bag or purse.
Light blanket & pillow (heavier if traveling in cold climate)
A light sweater or long sleeve shirt and a few pairs of BabyLegs (even in hot climates most buildings can be very cold so being able to throw on an extra layer without having to re-dress will be very helpful)
Weather appropriate items: coats, hats, gloves, rain coats, rain boots, flip-flops, bathing suits, etc.
Shot records & passports (if traveling out of country)
Hair accessories or hats for girls, hats / caps for boys

NEWBORN TO 12 MONTHS
With these little ones you will still be breastfeeding or bottle feeding formula; they may not be walking yet or be new walkers; if they are six months or older they will be eating some solids.


 If you're breastfeeding: nursing cover-up (or nursing shirts for mom); pump and storage bags; pads, nipple ointment, other nursing essentials such as pillow etc.


 Bottles, portable cooler, Powder or Ready to Feed Formula (enough for travel time) and distilled water for powder formula


 A cooler (buy or use hotel mini fridge) to store open RTF Formula


 Bottle warmer for the car if your child prefers liquids warm


 Pacifiers and/or teething toys


 Enough baby food for travel time (buy additional once you arrive or use a service to ship to your destination)


 Items for basic baby proofing if your baby is mobile (outlet covers, door pinch guards for interior doors) If you're staying for an extended period of time or will be in a vacation home you should try to include at least one gate, door knob locks, window locks, etc.)


 Changing Covers & Changing Pad (You want to place the disposable cover between the changing table and your pad)


1 TO 3 YRS OLD

These little ones are mobile, eating solids-usually table foods- and drinking cow's milk. They may be good talkers or just starting to talk. They appreciate having choices and anything that allows them to assert themselves. Imaginative games and LOTS of patience should be at the top of the list.


 Snacks for the trip. Healthy items like fruit (dried or fresh cut appropriately by age) peanut butter or almond butter sandwiches, dried cereal like cheerios, & other cookies, crackers, etc.


 Sippy cups or bottles & baby sized utensils


 Antibacterial wipes for hands


 Antibacterial wipes for surfaces


 If you're traveling by car: a cooler with ice or dry ice for milk & other perishables


 High Chair/ Shopping cart cover (nice to have so you don't have to bring your own chair to restaurant)


 Changing Covers & Changing Pad (You want to place the disposable cover between the changing table and your pad)


 Items for basic baby proofing (outlet covers, door pinch guards for interior doors) If you're staying for an extended period of time or will be in a vacation home you should try to include at least one gate, door knob locks, window locks, etc.)


 Night -extra absorbent- diapers (one per night you will be away)


 Paper towels or napkins


 Trash bags for car


For kids older than 3 years old your packing list shrinks as you need less specialty items so you can use the Universal list and consider their interest as well as your destination. Obviously you can add items that are for specific locations such as beach toys or ski gear but remember that less is more. You can wash items, buy when you arrive, and remember to interact with your kids and not solely rely on toys to entertain them. MOST importantly... pack at least 3 days prior. Last minute packing almost guarantees you will forget something. Trips allow us to learn and grow so make sure to "teach" your child at every opportunity and hold on for the ride.



Little Passports