Packing for Travel

Over the summer, millions of Americans will be traveling: vacations, weekend getaways, and visiting relatives.

Making a master list of what is needed will help the packing go smoothly and prevent emergency shopping trips. This list can be used as a reference for every trip. Include personal care items (purchase travel size containers of items and keep them in a shaving kit/makeup bag, so the items are already packed for the next trip.), clothing & accessories, medications, travel activities, recreation items, bedtime needs, and snacks. Email Pam at simplespaces@earthlink.net to request a checklist that can be customized to fit your needs.

Children can be taught to pack their own bags. At age 4-6, have your child help you pack his/her bag. Have a list (with pictures). Ask the child to get each needed item and show him/her how to check off each item as it is packed. Slowly increase the child’s participation in the activity. By age 8-10, your child can be packing his/her own bag, when given a list.

Having a master list as a guide while packing makes the packing go faster and requires less focused attention. Give it a try!