As much as I love travelling, I hate packing. Things get even more complicated when you are traveling with kids. There are so many things you need to think about that you usually forget the most important items. Been there, done that. On the bright side of things, there’s a bunch of mum hacks that make packing for travel easier. Today I will share my favourite ones. Let’s get into it:
My Top 6 Mum Hacks for Packing
#1 Pack by Outfits
Instead of throwing a random assortment of clothes into your suitcase, try packing by outfits. This means setting out complete sets of clothing for each day of your trip. It’s a game-changer! Not only does it ensure you don’t forget essential items (like underwear or socks), but it also makes getting ready on vacation a snap. Just grab an outfit and go! Plus, it helps you resist the urge to overpack by making you think about what you’ll actually wear.
Packing by outfits can also be a fun activity to involve your kids in. Let them choose their favourite outfits for the trip. It gives them a sense of control and excitement about the upcoming journey, and it’s one less thing for you to worry about. It’s a win-win!
#2 Packing Cubes
If you haven’t already discovered the magic of packing cubes, prepare to have your mind blown. These little organizers are a lifesaver, especially for keeping your family’s clothes sorted and easy to find. You can assign a cube to each family member or organize them by type of clothing. It not only maximizes space but also keeps your suitcase neat and tidy.
Another great benefit of packing cubes is they make unpacking a breeze. Instead of digging through a jumbled mess to find what you need, you can quickly grab the cube that contains it. Plus, they’re great for keeping dirty laundry separate from clean clothes on your way home. Honestly, once you try packing cubes, there’s no going back.
#3 Crease Protectors for Leather Shoes
For those trips that require you to bring along a nice pair of leather shoes, crease protectors are a must-have. They slip inside your shoes to maintain their shape and prevent creasing during travel. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference, especially if you’re attending an event or meeting where appearances matter.
If you are travelling with kids and they are big sneaker fans, I highly recommend the Diagonal One crease protectors. These crease protectors are made specifically for rubber shoes. So your kid’s Jordans or Vans will look intact even if they are stuffed at the bottom of the luggage. This item is a small investment that can save you from the hassle and cost of replacing a beloved pair of shoes.
#4 Roll Your Clothes
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them is a classic packing hack that still stands the test of time. It’s a fantastic way to save space in your suitcase and prevent wrinkles. By tightly rolling each item, you can fit more into your luggage and keep your clothes looking fresh and ready to wear upon arrival.
This method is particularly effective for casual, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and a swimming jersey. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can fit in your suitcase, and it’s also a great way to organize your items, making it easier to find what you need without rummaging through everything.
#5 Wear Your Bulkier Clothes
When travelling, especially to cooler destinations, bulky items like sweaters and jackets can take up a lot of space in your suitcase. A simple solution? Wear your bulkier clothes instead of packing them. Not only does this free up space, but it also means you’ll be cosy and comfortable during your journey.
This mum hack is especially useful if you are travelling to a country where temperatures can fluctuate every day. You can also stuff the pockets with extra items to make more room in your luggage. I recommend putting items like phone chargers, tablets and other gadgets that you don’t want to risk getting scratched in the luggage. In addition, airplanes can get quite chilly and the extra layer will keep you warm.
#6 Vacuum-Packed Bags
Vacuum-packed bags are a game-changer for families looking to save as much space as possible. By removing the air from your clothes, these bags compress them down, significantly reducing the amount of space they take up. This is particularly handy for bulkier items like jackets, sweaters, and even blankets you might need for colder destinations.
Using vacuum-packed bags is also a great way to organize your suitcase. You can group items together—such as all your beachwear or all your evening outfits—and have everything neatly packed and easy to find. Plus, these bags can double as a way to keep dirty laundry separate from clean clothes on your trip back home ready to be washed in sports detergent to get it extra clean. Just be mindful of weight limits for your luggage, as it’s easy to pack more when you’re saving so much space!
You can read more travel tips for the entire family here.
How to Pack for Kids
Packing for kids can often feel like you’re trying to fit their entire room into a suitcase. But fear not, because these hacks apply just as well to your little ones. Start by packing outfits in individual ziplock bags, labeled with the day of the week. This not only keeps things organized but also helps older children get dressed on their own, giving you one less thing to worry about.
For younger kids, consider packing a small bag of their favourite toys, you could get them to play online chess game without having to carry small pieces, snacks, and activities for the journey. It keeps them entertained and makes the travel experience more enjoyable for them (and you!). Remember, the goal is to make travel as stress-free as possible, so anything that can keep your child happy and occupied is worth bringing along.
And there you have it, six mum hacks plus a bonus tip for packing for kids that will make your next travel packing experience a breeze.