Traveling with Kids: What’s Worth Packing (and What’s Not)
Published Thursday, April 24th 2025 - Updated Thursday, June 26th 2025Traveling with Kids: What’s Worth Packing (and What’s Not)
A minimalist mama’s guide to keeping it simple while staying prepared
As travel advisors and homeschooling parents of three, we live for adventures, we know firsthand how easy it is to overpack especially when traveling with kids. But here’s the truth: less really is more. The goal? Keep it light, keep it simple, and still have everything you need for an amazing time.
Here’s what we have learned to always pack and what we have learned to leave behind.
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Our Must-Haves
1. Reusable Water Bottles
Hydration = happy kids (and fewer snack meltdowns). Choose spill-proof bottles they can carry themselves. We also like bottles that are insulated to keep drinks cold.
We also love Disney themed water bottles if going to Disney!
2. Swimwear + Swim Diapers + Wet Bag
Two swimsuits per kid (so one dries while they use the other) and a cover up! For babies or toddlers not potty trained, we liked the swimsuits with snaps on the bottom for diaper changes. Regarding swim diapers, we used reusable ones with snaps on the sides unless we didn't have access to a washing machine. In that case, we brought a few disposable swim diapers. Lastly, bring a wet bag to have a place to put the wet swimsuits.
3. A Small First Aid Kit
Band-aids, kids’ pain reliever, motion sickness tablets (my oldest had bad car motion sickness as a toddler, we had to give her a tablet before a road trip), and a mini thermometer can go a long way (for my first trip to Guatemala with my oldest, I forgot a thermometer). Toss it in your luggage.
4. A Compact Stroller or Carrier
For younger ones, a lightweight single stroller, double stroller, all-terrain stroller, or comfy carrier saves everyone’s energy especially in airports or long theme park days. Don't forget the gate check bag! We recommend a double stroller that is side by side vs front and back. When we went to Disney World in 2021, we brought a front and back double stroller and it was awful lol It felt like we were pushing a boat.
(Loving the carrier with Addy)
5. Snacks, Snacks, Snacks
Granola bars, fruit pouches, trail mix. Easy to pack, easy to grab, and they save you money and tantrums on the go especially when traveling on a road trip, plane, or train. If we go on a cruise, we don't pack as many snacks as the food is complimentary and can order room service even if it has a nominal fee. However, if your kiddos is picky, then yes, always bring their favorite snacks. When my oldest was little, she only drank almond milk, so we would travel with her 80 calorie almond milk as most places only have cow and soy milk.
If traveling with a baby and breastfeeding, you may need to pack a pump and bottles if you are planning to be away from baby. When my youngest was 7 months she went on her first cruise on Royal Caribbean. We were able to leave her a few hours at the nursery. I requested a medical grade mini fridge to keep my breastmilk cold and provide it to the nursery staff.
(The Royal Caribbean Medical Grade Mini Fridge)
6. Entertainment for Travel Time
Tablets (preloaded with games/movies), books, or small toys. Don’t overdo it, one or two solid options per child is usually enough. If on a cruise, that is a perfect time to unplug and tell them there is no wifi. Same with waiting in line at theme parks, they are there to enjoy the present. Granted, all depending on the kiddos ages.
(The nursery of Navigator of the Seas for kids 6 months to 3 years not potty trained)
What We Leave Behind (on purpose!)
1. A Full Wardrobe
You don’t need 5 “just in case” outfits. One per day + 1 extra = perfect. Laundry can be done if needed. Try to pick accommodations with laundry facilities and determine what activities you will be doing to pack appropriately. You can also use packing cubes and set limits. If it doesn't fit, it doesn't come. When kids are little and their clothes are small, it is so easy to overpack..
2. Bulky Beach Toys or Floaties
Trust me, a few small sand tools or a collapsible bucket will do. Let them get creative with nature. Resorts and water parks usually have them on site.
3. Fancy Shoes
Comfort wins every time. One pair of walking shoes and flip flops/slides are usually enough for kids (and you!). Unless, you are going to a formal event like a wedding or formal night on a cruise (not that they are mandatory).
(We love dressing up for formal night on a cruise! We get lots of family pictures!)
4. Giant Diaper Bags
Pack smart with a small backpack-style diaper bag or day bag. Only take what you’ll actually use that day. Before your trip, take note of what you actually use and then determine what is extra and can live without.
5. Over-the-Top “Just in Case” Items
You don’t need an entire pharmacy. Be prepared—but don’t bring your whole medicine cabinet.
Final Tip:
Travel is about connection, not perfection. The less stuff you lug around, the more present you can be. You’re making memories, don’t let the packing stress steal your joy. Plus, every destination should have what you need. It may not be your brand or local pricing, but they will have it.
(We drove from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. We packed 2 checked bags. One for Travis and I. One for Addy and Aesir. Amelia had a carry on and backpack. Travis had a garment bag for his suit for formal night. The girls and I had a carry on garment bag for our formal dresses. I also brought my pump bag. Lastly, we brought a box of diapers for the Addy and Aesir. Looking back, maybe I still overpacked..)
Unpopular Tip:
Lastly, we avoid bringing our car seats and go to destinations where we don't need them. We also fly without them and when our girls were babies, they were on our laps. It's all about the risks you are willing to take and peace of mind.
But, if you do fly with your car seat, don't forget the car seat gate check bag!
Ready to plan your next family getaway?
Whether it’s your first trip with littles or your fifth theme park vacation, We will help you make it smooth, fun, and totally doable.
Let’s chat and get your trip on the calendar!
With gratitude,
Cruise Planners – Ana & Travis
702-482-7774
AMartinez@CruisePlanners.com
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