Basic Travel Checklist & Easy Travel Tips

Being a family of 5 and trying to pack for a vacation can seem overwhelming. Trying to ensure everyone has all the clothing needed (especially if we don’t have a washer when on vacation), all toiletries, shoes, and comfort items can make it easy to forget a few things. All those reasons are why I use a checklist for each person when packing. Not only can I make notes, but I can also stay organized and keep the trips to the store at a minimum. Here are a few lists I use to help pack for a trip!

Apparel Checklist

I always start with the basics, apparel. I have a list for myself and each kid to ensure we all have the right and enough items for our trip. If the trip is longer than a weekend getaway, I write the number of things the kids will need each day. Noting the number of clothing items also helps ensure I am not leaving any clothing behind when we head home. Likewise, I pack two more outfits than needed because kids can get dirty. Packing extra also gives me the flexibility to mix and match as well.

Toiletries Checklist

After packing the clothes in the right bags, I move on to the toiletries. I take a little more in this area, especially if we are going somewhere I cannot get to a store in a hygiene emergency. Like the apparel lists, I use a list for each person I am packing and edit them as the kids get older. Having travel staples and a travel toiletry bag saves time since I will only need to refill or replace a few items at a time. The toiletry list will continue to evolve as time goes on.

Travel Bag Checklist

Since we usually take road trips, I always ensure the kids and my travel bag are packed with enough to keep us entertained for the drive. My husband is easygoing and has his favorite podcasts are downloaded to his phone so there is not a lot of planning for him. If we are flying, I will add wrapped snacks for the family and empty water bottles I can fill once we are at our gate. The kids will bring a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, and change of clothes. I will also pack extra clothes and toiletries just in case our luggage gets lost. Packing extra chargers in the carry-on bag when flying is an additional reassurance while traveling and helps if there is a layover.

Documents and Electronics

This last list is one I always forget a few items when packing and we end up having to turn around about five minutes down the road. Without a doubt, I have left a charger, wallet, or something else I told myself I would not forget. Fortunately, with technology, our reservations, plane tickets, or other travel information is stored on my phone. Electronics and travel information rarely make it onto a travel list even though they are some of the most essential items needed when traveling and are the most expensive if we need to buy anything on vacation. I ususally double-check this list before heading out on an adventure and have a dedicated spot for travel documents in a bag, suitcase, or another area when traveling.