My Ultimate Family Packing List: Mom Wisdom Edition for Trip

I learned the hard way on 19th Avenue that preparation is everything. Here is the master list I use to make sure that no matter where I am, the family stays fed, cared for, and entertained.

This is how I make sure our long flights (anything over 3 hours), long drives (anything over 20 minutes) and long dinners (at any restaurant) do not result in the classic meltdown.

1. The "Golden" Folder (Documents & Cash)

  • Identification: Passports, IDs, Visas, Licenses and a printed Emergency Contact Card.

  • Money: Backup credit card, cash, and a small amount of local currency.

2. The "Sanity-Saver" Carry-On

  • Backup: One full change of clothes for every traveler (accidents happen!).

  • Snacks: Kind bars, chocolate, cheese, fruit, and crackers.

  • Takeoff/Landing: Sweets or candy to help little ears with air pressure.

  • Comfort: Refillable water bottle (fill after security) and over-ear headphones for the kids (to watch TV!).

3. The Mobile Pharmacy (The "Orange Pouch")

  • Kids’ Essentials: Thermometer, fever/cough/allergy meds, nasal spray, Vicks, and bug spray, The throw up paper bags.

  • The Adult Kit: Bandaids, heart meds, aspirin, antiseptic, floss, and heart burn medicine (Pudin Hara is my Go To!).

  • Quick Fixes: Shout wipes for stains and wet wipes for everything else.

4. Baby & Toddler Territory

  • The Basics: Diapers, wipes, and a portable changing mat, trash bags

  • Sleep/Comfort: Burp cloths, swaddles, and 3x extra clothes.

  • The "Big" Step: A portable toddler toilet seat.

5. Entertainment & Tech

  • Analog: Coloring sheets, crayons, markers, and those life-saving Target $1 activity kits.

  • Digital: Laptop + charging cable, international converter, earphones, and a battery pack (must stay in carry-on).

  • On the Road: USB/USB-C charging wires.

6. Clothing & Laundry Logic

  • The Daily Wear: Underwear, socks, shorts, pants, skirts, and dresses.

  • Laundry Secrets: Detergent/dryer sheets (flat and light!) and a mesh bag for washing delicates.

  • The Shoe Rack: Sneakers (walking), hiking shoes, dress shoes, and Crocs or slippers for the hotel.

7. The Portable Kitchen & Bath

  • Toiletries: Toothbrush/paste, hairbrush, makeup, jewelry, and baby soap.

  • The "Glam" Kit: Hairspray, pomade, rubber bands, clips, and headbands for the kids.

  • Condiment Kit: A small ziplock with salt, pepper, sugar, honey, mustard, and Tabasco/chili.

8. Weather & Activity Specifics

  • Sun & Surf: Swimsuits, goggles, caps, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunblock.

  • Winter Warrior: Earmuffs, heat warmers, warm hats/socks, and an extra jacket for layering.

  • Big Gear: Car seats and booster seats.

9. Whats in the ziplock bag in my purse? This goes everywhere my kids go!

  • Quick First Aid: Antibacterial, Sanitizer, Bandaids

  • Adult Medicine: Emergency meds for someone who has a heart attack (Sorbitrate + Disprin)

  • Cleaning supplies: Shout wipes, Tide pen, a pack of wipes

  • Entertainment Supplies: Crayons, paper to draw, scotch tape, a pencil, an eraser


Whats in your get away bag?

Safe Travels!!

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