Checklist plans often besiege you when going off on a trip with the whole family. Your mind is thinking of hundreds of items you would like to take with you, but you do not know where to start. Get organized and tailor-fit your packing list, based on the kind of getaway trip you are embarking on.
Generic Must-Have Packing List
If your family is going on a holiday trip or taking a quick weekend stay in the mountains, don’t leave home without the items that your family will need. Bring the right kind of clothes and footwear whether they are for skiing in the Alps, surfing the beach or trekking the mountains. Bring first-id kits. If you’re going nature-tripping, it is best to have allergy relievers, just to be on the safe side. If you or any member of your family is taking prescription medications, make sure that you double the quantity just in case you might extend your trip by a day or two. Toiletries, such as toothbrushes, toothpastes, mouthwash, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and soaps, are must-haves even when you book in a hotel that offers these items as freebies, especially if a member of your family has skin allergies. Other grooming items include comb, hairbrush, makeup, shaving cream and cotton buds. Take your camera (photo and/or video) to capture the moments. Don’t forget your cellphone and charger. You’ll need extra cash/credit cards for spending. If you are going overseas, passport, plane tickets and traveler’s checks are essential items you will need. In addition, bring flashlights in case you experience sudden electrical surge or power outages.
Summer Vacation Packing List
If you are planning to go to the beach to get some tan during summertime, the sea queen in you should prepare the essentials for yourself, your little mermaids and mermen. Items you should include are beach towels, swimwear, snorkeling gadgets, sunblock lotion (SPF 30, at least), beach mats, sunglasses and sports items, such as beach balls or Frisbees.
Camping List
The great outdoors poses a great deal of fun and many unpredictable scenarios, so better prepare for anything under the sun — or rain for that matter. A tent and tarp will be your home away from home. Make sure that the tent has no punctures or damages, unless you’re looking forward to a mosquito-infested sleep at night. Bring sleeping bags or bedding for every member of the family. Extra flashlights and battery-operated lanterns are important when camping out, especially when you need to answer the call of nature in the middle of the night. Pack extra batteries. A portable radio is ideal for entertainment or for tuning into the local news. Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellents and fly swatters. Pieces of wood, fire starters and matches are necessary for building campfires.
Ropes can aid in building make-shift clothesline and extra anchorage for the tent. While you’re at it, throw in tablecloths, paper plates, plastic spoons and forks, resealable plastic food bags and an ice-chest to preserve ice-cold drinks. Take as much drinking water as you can. Make a list of food you will bring, such as meat and hotdogs for barbecuing, with buns to match. Bring charcoal, canned goods, can openers, cooking oils, seasonings, utensils, cooking pots and pans as well as kettle for boiling water. Bring soap and detergent. Don’t forget to grab some garbage bags as well to dispose of your trash properly.
Road Trip Packing List
Maps, portable navigation or compass are helpful to avoid getting lost. Car battery chargers, snow chains, gasoline container and car tools are handy for car troubles.
