What to pack

PACKING TIPS 

We all know that packing for a trip is much easier said than done, and with kids it's a whole different ball game. These tips and checklist will make things A LOT easier for you. 

Our first trip away we overpacked like you wouldn't believe, then with each trip we have taken less and less after realising how little we actually use while we are away. Our last trip was 7 months around Europe and Australia with 2 suitcases, carry on and baby items.

Travelling with small children will make you feel like you need to be prepared for so many situations, but in reality you don't need anywhere near as much as you think. 

Of course travelling to a warm climate is much easier to pack for than a cold one, but if you're smart about EVERY item you can cut down a lot and make the travel a lot easier.

It all adds up, any little thing is one extra thing you need to keep track of, carry and pack at the other end so if you don't absolutely need it.. leave it. 

Our full packing list, including separate carry on packing list in our free downlaod here

 

Where to start

• Check the weather conditions at destination, plan outfits etc accordingly.  Double check the current weather a few days before departure to confirm you have the correct items.

• Start packing early, even weeks prior so you can recognise the things missing with enough time to organise them. Especially if it means you have to go shopping for things like thermals, or essentials that aren't always easy to buy in a hurry. 

• Packing early also makes it easier to cull unnecessary items.. you will always overpack at first. 

• Packing cubes! Lightweight full mesh ones are the best - very minimal weight added. This makes every day living out of a suitcase SO much easier.

 

 

Parents

• Don't overpack for Mum and Dad, you will need extra outfits for the kids to avoid regular washing so be smart about what you take. Take clothes you can mix and match, lightweight, not bulky etc. 

• Shoes take up so much weight and space - take as few pairs as possible. eg. Sandals that you can wear daily but also suitable for dining out.

• Take minimal toiletries as they are also heavy items. 

 

Things to consider for the little ones:

• Extra bottles for baby to avoid regular sterilising on the go. 

If you are bottle feeding, it can be easier to buy the formula at your destination but keep in mind, each country has different formula available. If your baby is sensitive to formula I would recommend taking a full supply of the one you use at home, it will be worth the space in your luggage. 

• Gumboots or waterproof hiking boots for extra easy adventures wherever you go. 

• UVA pop up tent if going to a beach location.  

• Bring your preferred sunscreen and insect repellent from home. 

• Night light - if needed. 

• Waterproof bags to keep on hand during days out.

• Cot linen

• Extra dummies - you may not be able to buy the same dummies if you lose some.

• When we travelled Europe for 4 months we took our own stick blender to make healthy pureed foods for our baby to avoid unhealthy options, and also healthy smoothies, pancakes etc wherever we stayed. 

 

Baby gear:

• Car seat  - In many countries, you can hire a car seat which adheres to the safety compliances for that country but the quality and cost of this can be variable. It is important to check this prior to travelling as your countries car seat safety can differ to that abroad and you may feel more confident using your own which you know how to install safely – if you are legally allowed to use at your destination. Australia has some of the most stringent regulations when it comes to baby gear. 

• High chair - It varies country to country with how common or accessible they are. Some countries really lack in facilities for young children. We love travelling with a small fold up one so we know we always have one if needed for restaurants or in our accommodation.   

• Pram -  Our number one tip for travelling with little ones is investing in a good travel pram that fits in the overhead compartment on board the plan. We cannot recommend the Bugaboo Butterfly pram enough. Yes you will hear a lot about the YoYo pram, however at 1year old our boy was already too big for it. The YoYo also has a tiny storage compartment underneath, and overall found the quality of the Butterfly much better. (Not sponsored )

• Cot  - There are a lot of bulky, heavy travel cots out there and if you didnt know any better you may end up taking a cot that will add extra stress and weight to carry on your travels. We have had the same one for all our travels, it has been wonderful, it weighs 5kg and even fits in one side of the suitcase if we want to have less items to carry. Linked, along with so many other great items, in our favourite products page here.

 

Extra tips:

• Pack essentials and at least a few outfits each in carry on in case of lost or delayed luggage. If travelling to a cold climate, take coats in carry on, especially the kids ones. 

• Always pack all essentials in carry on in case luggage is lost - especially medications.

• Consider any potential illnesses and take medication needed - your usual medications won't be as accessible. Eg, antihistamines, electrolytes, paracetamol, etc. 

 • Washing powder - take some in a ziplock bag to avoid having to buy a whole box/bottle when you're away. 

• Large lightweight tote bag for beach days, or similar outings. 

• Ziplock bags are great for keeping liquids safe from leaks. 

• Pack baby items like nappies, wipes, formula etc into car seat or cot bags to save space in suitcases. 

 

Free Packing Checklist Download HERE