Packing Hacks: Children and Theme Parks Addition

By Jennifer Rannazzisi

The number one question I always receive from clients traveling with young kids is “What should I pack?” As a mom of three young children who loves to travel, I feel like I have my packing down to a science. Packing for a vacation with kids can be tricky, but with the right tips and tricks, it can be a much smoother experience. I actually enjoy packing for our vacations! Here are some helpful travel hacks to make packing for a family trip easier:

1. Create a Packing List for Each Family Member 

Make a checklist for each child (and for yourself) to ensure nothing is forgotten. Include clothes, toiletries, entertainment, and essential items like snacks. Everything of importance goes on this list. You can do it months before you leave and add to it as things pop into your head. Book the trip, start the list! I keep it on my phone in the notes section for easy access!  This reduces the stress of remembering items at the last minute and avoids overpacking. 

2.  Use Packing Cubes for Organization

 Pack clothes for each child in separate packing cubes or ziplock bags. This helps keep outfits organized and easy to access. I have even gone as far as organizing outfits by day. For example “Magic Kingdom Day” “Animal Kingdom Day” etc. This works well especially for those special Disney or Universal Vacation days when you want their outfits to line up with theme of the day! This will save space and make it easier to find items without rummaging through the entire suitcase.

3. Roll Clothes to Maximize Space

 Instead of folding clothes, roll them tightly. This method saves space and helps prevent wrinkles. I swear by this! You can fit so much more in those packing cubes that way too!  Rolling clothes allows you to fit more in the suitcase and keeps items compact.

4. Pack a Travel-Friendly "Activity Bag"

Put together a small backpack or bag with toys, books, electronic devices, and snacks to keep the kids entertained during travel. My older children carry on a backpack on the plane, or have a backpack nearby on road trips. I also add a small packing cube or ziplock bag to their backpacks that include a change of clothes, underwear, pajamas and a bathing suit. This prevents boredom during long car rides or flights and keeps the kids occupied without needing to open your main luggage. The extra clothes in the bags will eliminate any stress in the event your luggage is lost. 

5. Bring Extra Snacks and Water Bottles

Pack extra snacks like granola bars, crackers, or fruit pouches, and refillable water bottles. It’s a lifesaver during travel delays or when kids get hungry. Especially on a plane with toddlers. Every minute counts. Anything to keep those little ones busy and stress free!  This hack keeps kids happy and hydrated, and prevents the need to buy overpriced snacks at airports or rest stops.

6.  Use a Diaper Bag for Travel Essentials

 For younger children, keep a dedicated “travel diaper bag” with essentials such as diapers, wipes, snacks, hand sanitizer, pacifiers,  a change of clothes, and a few toys. It’s easy to grab and keep all essentials in one place without digging through your luggage.

7. Pack an Extra Outfit in Your Carry-On

Always pack a spare outfit (or two) for each child in your carry-on or day bag, in case of spills or accidents. Don’t forget to pack an outfit you too. Accidents happen when carrying little ones, and you don’t want to be left without a shirt to change into!  Having extra clothes handy saves the hassle of rummaging through the suitcase mid-journey.

8.  Download Kids’ Shows/Apps Before Traveling 

Download your kids' favorite TV shows, movies, or games ahead of time so they don’t rely on spotty Wi-Fi during the trip. This keeps kids entertained and reduces the stress of trying to get connected on the go.

 9. Keep Medicines and Health Items Accessible

 Pack a small travel health kit with any needed medications, first-aid items, and items like sunscreen and hand sanitizer in an easy-to-access pocket or bag. Band-aids are a must for littles! It saves time when you need something urgently, and you won’t have to search through your entire bag.

10. Pack a “Surprise” Item

 Include a new toy or book that the kids haven’t seen before. Presenting this during travel can keep them entertained for longer. I like to go to the dollar store and grab a couple of new activity books and fresh new crayons and stickers.  A “surprise” keeps things fresh and exciting for kids, which can be especially helpful during long travel times.

11. Dress Kids in Layers

 Pack layers, such as a light jacket or sweater, that can easily be added or removed depending on the temperature. This ensures kids stay comfortable no matter what the weather or air conditioning is like.

12. Use Ziplock Bags for Liquids and Small Items

 For smaller toiletries like shampoo, lotion, or toothpaste, use small ziplock bags to keep everything organized and spill-free. The last thing you need when you arrive at your vacation destination is to have to clean up a small mess in your suitcase. Prevents messes in your luggage and helps with airport security.

13. Pack Laundry Pods and Dryer Sheets

Packing a few laundry pods and dryer sheets will help in case of emergencies. If you time on your vacation, you can do laundry and come home with clean clothes! Additionally, I always pack a laundry bag to throw dirty clothes in during our stay. Laundry on vacation with little ones is unfortunately just inevitable. Using your own items from home can help with sensitive skin and save you money! 

14. Prepare for Rain:

Bring your ponchos and stroller covers! You never know when rain is going to strike, and it’s better to be prepared than not!

By implementing these travel hacks, you'll be able to keep your family organized, prepared, and content throughout your vacation! If you would like a complete list of “what to pack” when headed to Disney World, please email me at Jenniferwanders18@gmail.com. I’d love to get to know you and your family, and help you plan your next Disney or Universal adventure!