Here’s something one of my sweet customers shared with me before we did our big Disney trip 2+ years ago. It makes getting ready while temporarily living out of a suitcase a BREEZE!
Take one day at a time….literally! Plan out each outfit for an entire day (including socks/underwear/diaper) plus the pajamas they will wear for that night. For my older kiddos they don’t wear diapers or training pants at night anymore, but my youngest who’s 6 months old obviously still does, so her day will get one of those. Once you have that day picked out, put it in a 1 gallon ziplock and label it ‘CHILD NAME Day 1’ and do that same thing for each day you are gone. If you have multiple kiddos like we do, it helps to color code them with different color permanent markers. This system is such a great way to save space in a suitcase too.
It’s so nice to find their color/name and whatever day we’re on hand them the bag (or grab it for our youngest who can’t dress herself just yet) and they’re ready for the day. I will leave the pajamas (and potentially the underwear if they shower at night) inside of the bag until later that night and then you’re done with that day. I will pack all of their swim suits in 1 ziplock (I was able to get EIGHT (!!!) suits for all 4 kiddos in one bag this last time).
Personal hygiene and other products we will take in ziplocks or travel bags I’ve owned over the years. TIP: we usually go to the Dollar Store the days leading up to get whatever travel size items we need (toothpaste, toothbrush, etc), but we like to use these travel containers and just fill them with body wash, lotion, and shampoo/conditioner we have from home. I try to keep all of the baby’s stuff (burp rags, light blankets, bottles, etc) in another bag just for her so it stays nice and clean and I know where everything is and it’s not mixed in with the kids’ other things.
Another thing I’ve learned that’s helped me clean up/pack up for the way back is using these linen bags for all dirty clothes. It comes with 2 in this pack I own so if needed, I can put wet clothes/towels or separate mine and my husband’s clothes from the kids.
Last tip: on your last day of vacation/the day you come home, pack something comfy or appropriate for the car/plane! Whether you need a light jacket or you’re returning to the heat (like us ;)), pack something the kids/you can be comfortable in.
This was short because it’s pretty straight forward! It’s truly made traveling with little ones so much easier, and I hope this can help the next time you pack up!
