Packing for Your Family Vacation

Many people love to travel, but they hate to pack. They end up waiting until the last minute, and then either pack way too much, or leave out something that they really need, like their passport or toothbrush. It doesn't have to be that way, if you plan accordingly, and start packing early; it is possible to get everything that everyone needs, even if you are packing for the entire family. Think about your trip, the weather, what you will be doing, and then start packing. It is best to do it when you won't be distracted, so that you can make certain you get everything you need, without packing up the entire house.

One of the most obvious parts of packing is your clothing. It isn't really that difficult for adults, as you likely will only need one outfit per day, and then underwear, pajamas, and maybe a bathing suit or jacket, depending on the weather. With children, you never know how many outfits per day they will need. Some children have to change clothes every time they eat, because they are so messy. Others get outside and sit in the grass, run and play, and get dirty. One thing that can make packing for children a little easier is if you stay at a hotel that offers on site laundry areas, so that you can do a load as needed. If this is the case, then you can get by with packing a lot less, which will save you time, and keep you from having to drag a lot of luggage around as well. If you are unable to find such a hotel, then you will need to pack at least two outfits per day for each child, and maybe even a few extras. In this case, it will probably be better to have a little more than you need than not enough.

To get by with packing less, if you pack outfits that are interchangeable, such as jeans and t-shirts, you might be able to wear an article more than once, meaning that you can pack less, and have fewer luggages to carry around. Try to think of ways to get by with less clothing, so that you can really narrow down your packing. Again, this trick may not work for children.

For younger children, you also have to remember to pack diapers, wipes, changing pads, baby bath, baby shampoo, etc. You can take your baby bathtub with you if you choose, although it will take up a lot of space. Your best bet might be to use washcloths and water from the sink to get baby clean. If you are going to an area that has plenty of stores available, you can probably get by with taking less diapers and wipes, since you can buy them as needed. You definitely should pack enough for the trip though, at least until you reach your destination.

You also don't want to forget to pack your personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, deodorant, etc. In many cases, you may be able to purchase travel packs that contain smaller sizes, saving room in your suitcase. If you or a family member take daily prescription medications, you should remember to pack those as well. Rather than take the entire bottle, you can take just enough to do for the expected duration of the trip, and then a few extra, just in case the unexpected pops up and you are gone longer than you planned to be. If you have children, you should also make certain to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, etc.

It is quite possible to take some of the pain out of packing, if you give yourself plenty of time, and think about everyone's needs as you pack.

Sun, Sea, Sand and Speed: Verizon Wireless Makes it Easy for Vacationers to Have It All This Summer, as Company ...

LAUREL, Md., May 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Beach vacations have always been a top pick for summer travelers, and this year, those planning trips to popular destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region have another ...

Officials look to bring travelers, jobs to Maryland

Local officials are hoping residents and tourists pump some extra cash into the economy as summer vacations near, and from the White House to Baltimore City Hall, there's a new push to create jobs and spur economic growth.

Juggling debt: How Maryland families are surviving the recovery

GAITHERSBURG - It wasn't bad investments or even an emergency that pushed Dennis and Stephanie Bradshaw close to a credit default It was simply having a baby

Gazette.Net: Frederick County students asked to prepare for new standardized tests over summer break

Beginning in the 2014-15 school year, Frederick County Public Schools students will join their peers in 48 states and U.S. territories in taking new standardized tests as a result of the Common Core State Standards Initiative.

'Golfer-in-chief' Obama nears 100th round of his presidency

Most modern U.S. presidents have played golf, but it's touchy, since many people view it as an expensive, elite sport. President Barack Obama plays golf a lot, but he won't… Click to Continue »