Summer calls for adventures and ticking off one’s bucket list. What better way to do just that than by organising a fun trip for the whole family? A much-needed vacation will give your loved ones a breather from the day-to-day motions of life and allow you to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond.
While the thought of a family trip can be irresistibly exciting, the preparations can be overwhelming and even tedious. Packing for the trip can be very stressful. There are so many things you need to think about. It’s possible to miss some important details if you’re not careful. Imagine bringing numerous sets of clothes only to find out at the airport that you forgot your passport. You can avert this by creating a list.
We’ve got you covered. This list gathers all the essentials you need before your travel date, helping you prepare for the trip and ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are some of the travel must-haves you need to keep in mind.
Travel Documents
Unsurprisingly, this one tops the list. It might seem cliché, but forgetting important documents is pretty common. You won’t want to rush into the airport only to discover that you left your travel insurance home. Preparing important documents for the trip is a must, especially your passport and visa if you are going out of the country.
Research way ahead of your trip, and find out all you need for the trip. Plane tickets, passports, and travel insurance papers must be stored in an accessible organiser and double-checked the night before the trip. Local trips might not need such documents, but you still need to make sure all family members have their identification cards with them in case those are necessary. It’s better to be prepared than sorry.
Enough Cash
Yes, most establishments and shops accept cashless transactions. However, travelling with your family requires ample preparations for the unexpected. You will never know when cash will be needed. It is a good cushion during emergencies, such as when machines break down or when you can’t find a store that accepts cards. Having enough cash with you when you travel will help you feel safe. This is especially true if you are travelling abroad.
Handy Carry-on
Photo by Baxter Blue
Bringing carry-on luggage where you can store most of your important travel needs will make your trip easier. This is helpful if you are going to travel on a plane. You can access your important documents and other essentials anytime. You might want to take a look at the following must-have items in your carry-on:
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Wallet with cash and cards
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Jackets or hoodies for the kids
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Warm socks
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Wet wipes to clean surfaces
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Books and tablet
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Snacks
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Toiletries
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Tumblers
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First-aid kit
If you want to feel comfortable during the trip especially when it requires long travels, you might want to bring something that can drive the stress away, like a heated neck pack. This can help release tension in your neck and shoulders, giving you instant relief.
Sun Protection
No matter what time of the year, the radiation from the sun is always a concern. During family trips, you might often stay outdoors, which increases your exposure to environmental elements, like the sun’s harmful rays. Bring ample sun protection essentials, including sunscreen lotion, hats, and sunglasses.
It is good to be safe and secure from bad elements, whether you are travelling during the summer or winter season.
Electronic Devices
Technology keeps us connected. It is rare for people not to own at least one smartphone. During family trips, you will naturally want to pack some gadgets that will help you communicate with your loved ones and document the trip. Of course, depending on your destination, you will need to ensure that you only bring the essential electronic devices.
It is also important to pack chargers and power banks. If you take too long on the road, you will need the latter or risk travelling with a dead phone.
Sets of Clothes
Whether you’re driving to the beach or flying into another country, no travel is complete without a good set of clothes. Make sure you bring enough for the whole trip. If you are going to the beach, you will naturally want to pack appropriate outfits like swimwear and sunglasses. Travel-friendly beach towels are also a must.
When packing your clothes, consider the destination’s weather. Will it be sunny there, or will you need cool-weather outfits? If a fancy dinner is part of the plan, bringing dressier clothes is in order. Make sure that you match the clothes with the correct footwear. Going on a hike or overnight camp will require proper hiking shoes and other equipment.
Necessary Toiletries
It is essential to bring toiletries when you travel. Make sure they are necessary to avoid packing too many items that will weigh you down. Basic toiletries include a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap or body wash, and other hygiene products. A pack of tissues and wet wipes may also be handy. For optimum preparation, you might want to include a sewing kit, safety pins, and shower cap.
Follow airline rules when packing toiletries. For example, most airlines will require you to only bring toiletries in your carry-on bag that are within the recommended amount and size. You have to fit them within a clear, plastic re-sealable bag. Items that are bigger than 100 ml should be included in the checked luggage.
You can prepare toiletries smartly by choosing travel-friendly items. Check skincare brands if they have a travel kit version of the products you need. This way, you can save time and effort in repacking them into travel-sized containers.
Extra Bags
A duffel bag or a plastic zip bag can do the trick. This is important for dirty laundry as you will want to separate them from clean clothes. This will help you keep things organised and avoid forgetting your stuff in hotel rooms after checkout. Plus, it keeps your accommodations neat, clean, and orderly.
Wrapping It Up
Now that you know the travel essentials you need for your family’s most awaited vacation, it’s time to start preparing for them. Planning and packing ahead of time will ensure your trip will have fewer hiccups and go smoothly. This will also allow you to enjoy every moment as you bond and create new and wonderful memories with your loved ones.
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