It’s one thing to pack for yourself when it comes to going on a trip, but when you have an entire family to pack for it can make things a bit more difficult. It can also make things easier to forget since you have to remember underwear and socks for everyone.
If your kids are already teenagers then they can probably do their packing on their own, as long as you give them a checklist and ensure that they check it twice. Aside from that, one family member will most likely be doing the packing for everyone, so here are some tips to make it go by more smoothly.
Pack The Easy Stuff First
If you start with the adult clothing and the bathroom necessities it can make life easier. Depending on where your vacation is taking you, you’ll want to make sure that you pack shorts for him and her, tanks, and sandals if you are heading to a sunny beach location, or on a cruise. Obviously if your destination is a colder one you’ll want something more covering first.
Once your stuff is packed, then you can move onto the children’s stuff. Even if you have teens that can pack for themselves you may still want to double check what they’ve packed, just in case. It’s better to be extra efficient than to need to spend extra money on vacation on something someone forgot to bring.
Always Have Lists
One of the best ways to make sure that nothing gets forgotten, and you won’t have to spend fun and souvenir money on a sweatshirt and jeans because someone didn’t think it would be chilly out at night, or toothbrushes so people can still practice good hygiene while they’re getting some time away.
Have a list for each individual so that they know what they need for the trip. Then have a master list so that you can go back through everyone’s stuff. The amount of items that you take, though, will also depending on how you are traveling.
Know Your Dimensions And Allocations
When it comes to flight travel there are numerous rules in place now as to what dimensions your luggage can be, from carry on to check in. You want to also make sure you know how much each bag you need to check is going to cost you so you can pack accordingly.
Each individual on your vacation party can have their own carry on, so that may help spread things out some, and if a carry on is free it could save you some money in the long run as well. Even if you are traveling by vehicle you’ll still need to watch your space!
Decide on the Accommodation
Finding suitable accommodation for your family is a crucial part of trip planning. It’s important to find a balance between comfort, convenience, and budget to ensure a memorable and enjoyable stay for everyone. Depending on your preferences and the size of your family, you might opt for a hotel, all inclusive puerto vallarta resort (or any other accommodation wherever you are going), vacation rental, or even camper vans. Start by determining the number of beds or sleeping spaces you need, as well as any specific amenities that are important to your family’s comfort, such as a kitchen or a pool.
Research the available options well in advance. Look for accommodations that offer family-friendly services and facilities, such as kids’ clubs, play areas, or connecting rooms. Read reviews from other families to get an idea of what to expect and whether the place aligns with your needs.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, make sure to book early, especially during peak travel seasons. This ensures you have a better chance of securing the type of accommodation that suits your family’s needs and preferences. Keep a copy of your booking confirmation handy as you prepare for your trip.