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Archives - August 2001 Thinks
Traveling with Tots - The Packing Part (Part Three of Three)
by Britta Wilder Ross
You've got your plans, your passports-all that's left is packing your bags for your big family adventure!
Good things to keep in mind when packing bags for overseas is to do your homework and keep it simple. Doing your homework means researching weather conditions and appropriate gear for your destination. Will it rain? Is it hot most of the time? Are there shops where you can purchase things you might need?
PACKING KIDS: Once you've determined the conditions of your holiday spot, pack simply. With small children it's best to dress them comfortably (pants, shorts, cotton shirts) with one or two outfits for 'dressing up,' in the event you'll need to. Good walking shoes and a jacket and sweater. Big tip: Take along clothes that are easy to launder, won't wrinkle and won't show stains! Also, in packing underwear and socks, use the 'one-and-a-half' rule: For ten days, take 15 pair; for five days, 8 pair, etc. Extras don't
take up much room in your luggage and will give you added security, just in case!
Here's a sample suitcase for a three-year old going on a ten-day trip:
15 pair underwear 15 pair socks
3 pair shorts 2 pair long pants
6 shirts 1 dressy outfit
1 jacket 1 sweater
1 pair pajamas 1 toothbrush/toothpaste
1 hairbrush shampoo/soap
babywipes sunscreen
child's backpack for carrying 'spare' clothes
If you are packing for more than one child, consolidate toiletries of all children into one bag. This will make finding items easier for you and keep from duplicating or losing them along the way. Also bring along a small container of Woolite-type liquid for cleaning clothes in a hurry. This will keep you from having to do loads of laundry during your vacation!
THE KITCHEN SINK: Traveling with infants can seem overwhelming but it doesn't have to be. Pack their basics: Diapers, bottles, formula, a blanket, bib, food, change of clothing, etc. into a backpack you can take with you everywhere. Avoid trying to fit the kitchen sink into this pack! Research to find what items you can buy at your destination and plan accordingly. A 'front-pack' for holding baby and having arms free is also a great choice for travel.
ADULT TIP: Packing for adults is basically the same, only larger.
ONCE ON BOARD: Don't be bored! Put together a small bag of toys, books or games for each child -preferably brand new to your youngster-and distribute once the novelty of being on a plane has worn off. Snacks or treats can also prove entertaining, although most airlines feature gift packages for children with more than enough nibbles to keep them going.
AND DON'T FORGET: Car-seats, strollers or other items you might need for transporting your child. Collapsible umbrella-type strollers are excellent and lightweight for transport through airports or on vacation. They can also be folded and stored on most flights, making them easily accessible when you
need them. Also good: Canvas or knit-style shopping bags for carrying items - you just never know - and are easily folded into luggage.
WHAT YOU SHOULD FORGET: All those 'additional' items - blankets, pillows, food, toys, clothing, appliances, accessories-you get the point. You're going on holiday! You're leaving home! Don't bring your home with you, only those basic things you'll need. Or, as the saying goes, "When in Rome, do as the Romans - just don't forget the diapers!"
Arrivederci and happy packing!