Whether you travel solo, with a friend or significant other, or with a pack of kids like I do, forgetting something seems inevitable. A packing checklist can help minimize frantic runs to the drugstore or department store for forgotten essentials.

For a week before you travel, jot down what toiletries you use (as well as those you’ll need on vacation, like sunblock and aloe). Make a note of the electronics you plan on taking and be sure to include power cords and chargers on your list. Here’s a general master packing list to get you started:

Clothes per person per day:

• One complete outfit (don’t forget socks and underwear!) per day, including travel days.
• One extra outfit per adult – you never know when you’ll get caught in a sudden downpour!
• Two extra outfits per child, especially during the diaper and potty training years. For a baby, I would even go to three extras. Baby clothes – especially onsies – don’t take up much suitcase space.
• Two pairs of comfortable shoes – here’s why: How Many Pairs of Shoes Do You Need?

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash – travel sizes only if you are flying!
• Hair brush.
• Accessories – if you have long hair, putting it up is a must during the summer.
• Personal grooming items you use on a regular basis.

Medications:

• Tylenol or Motrin.
• Sunblock.
• Aloe – in case you forget to use the sunblock.
• Any prescription or over the counter medications you take regularly – be sure to get them filled before you leave.
• Band-aids. Yes, you could go to a first aid station, but for a minor scrape in the parks it’s easier to just take care of it on the spot.

Electronics and Entertainment:

• Cell phone and charger.
• Camera and charger. Consider bringing an extra memory card, especially if you won’t be able to download your photos until you get home.
• iPod with music and audiobooks.
• Coloring book, crayons.
• Portable video player and power cord.

Other:

• Cash for incidentals while you are traveling
• Diapers, wipes, bottles, and other baby necessities

If you travel frequently, consider saving your checklist as a Word document or laminating it. If you have older kids, give them each a copy of the packing checklist and let them pack their own bags. Not only will it be one less thing for you to do, but it will give them the chance to practice valuable life skills. Post a copy of the packing list on your front door so you can double-check it as you pack up the car!

Related articles

• Disney World Quick Tips – Staying Charged (chipandco.com)
• Disney World Quick Tips – Adults, don’t leave home without these items (chipandco.com)
• The Drive Down: What to Pack, What to Bring (chipandco.com)

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About Tricia

Tricia Ballad has written 11 post on Chip and Co..

Tricia writes about Disney travel for large families and families affected by autism spectrum disorders at Return to Disney.

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