contributed by: @kidfriendlystays
Here's the thing about extra stuff: most of the time, it's not actually buying us security. Instead, it's just one more thing to keep track of. And I've come to realize that every thing you're tracking on a trip is a little less of you that's actually there, present, in the moment, on the vacation you flew across the country or ocean for.
Packing light isn't about doing without. It's about knowing exactly what earns a spot in the bag, so everything else can stay behind and free you up for the trip itself. Here's how we get there.
Know your non-negotiables, then leave it at that.
Passports, necessary travel gear, the special blankie. The list should comprise only things that truly can't be replaced on the road. Everything else can be bought, borrowed, or skipped for a day if needed. (Don't forget to ask your hotel or vacation rental host what child amenities they keep on hand—crib, sound machine, and the sort—this alone can save you loads of space!) Then start from your short list instead of every "just in case."
Pack outfits, not categories.
Piling in all the shirts and all the shorts always adds up to more combinations than any trip needs. Count out full outfits per day, per person, add one spare, and plan on a load of laundry mid-trip if facilities are available. I've long sworn by bamboo pajamas for my kids because they pack so small, work in all weather, and make a great base layer if we're hiking or the temps dip unexpectedly.
Invest in gear that pulls double duty.
I love that the WAYB packing cubes are sized to slide right into the Pico's carrying bag, so the car seat isn't just along for the ride, it's extra packing space. One cube for the first two day's outfits, one for pajamas and swimsuits, and you've got staples at the ready and carried on. As a souvenir bonus, flatten a packable tote at the bottom of your bag, so that you can use it as an extra carry on for goodies you pick up along your travels.
Keep your essentials clipped on, not buried.
Nothing slows down security like digging through a diaper bag for a passport while balancing a wiggly toddler on your hip. The WAYB zip pouch kit clips right onto the bags you're already carrying, so passports, chargers, and the snack that prevents a meltdown are always within reach.
Build a mini medicine kit.
Infant pain reliever and chewable ibuprofen for older kids (or children's Benadryl and Pepto Bismol if you sometimes need it), a thermometer and bandages. Pharmacies keep odd hours and hotel gift shops never seem to have the right thing when you need it. We've relied on our own mini medi kit more times than I can count!
Traveling with kids will always come with gear, but pack smart and it stops feeling like a mountain you're hauling through an airport. It starts feeling like a system that's on your side, working with you instead of against you, so you can actually be where you are.