Spring is springing and travel season is coming, whether Spring Break or weekend road trips, summer vacations or family reunions. Simplifying your travel rhythms only makes adventuring more accessible. Highly recommend.
With family scattered all over the country, we have generally had the good fortune of a big trip annually, and also prioritize enjoying the state we live in with mountain, beach and city adventures. We have learned a fair amount along the way (change of clothing in carry-ons a must!) and have been traveling with carry-ons only when flying for the last 5 years. So freeing!
You can read more HERE about how we pack light (basically a carry-on + backpack per person) with my more of my faves linked below. We would love to continue to minimize our packing even more - just makes travel feel more doable when you are schlepping less - ESPECIALLY once past the baby gear phase (I promise parents of littles, travel gets SO much easier!)
Pro-tip: register for TSA pre-check!
My go-to travel items:
Packing checklist - Your best chance at NOT overpacking is a list. I generally begin prepping about a week in advance by printing out a packing list for each member of the family. This also jolts my memory about any last minute items to purchase, like toothpaste.
Cross-body bag for the essentials - wallet, passport, phone/charger, tissues, bandaids, granola bar, hand sanitizer
Water bottle - any stainless steel or insulated option will do, but I personally have loved Klean Kanteen for 20 years.
Hard back Carry On - any version will do. Our fam has used these for the last 5 years.
Clear toiletry bags - I like the color-coded - one color for each family member.
Wet bags - for storing wet bathing suits, dirty laundry, or even snacks.
International adapter - if you’re traveling overseas, make sure you have an adapter so your chargers will work!
Travel Activity Tote - we keep a plastic tote stored next to our luggage and it’s filled with activity books, travel games, drawing supplies and neck pillows. I typically add something new to the kids Easter basket specifically for upcoming travel.
Additionally, you can read more HERE about what we make sure we have ready to go for easy summer fun. Prioritizing experiences over things will create lifelong memories you will cherish. You won’t regret making more room for exploring new places with the people you love.