If you have ever travelled with kids, you know how chaotic it can be, especially if you didn't pack right. Imagine you finally board the plane or get to your holiday spot, open your bag, and realise you forgot something very important. It is too late to go back now, and buying things on the trip can be expensive or even impossible.
In today’s guide, we found out what other parents wish they had packed but didn’t to help you remember everything and avoid making these common mistakes.
One of the most commonly forgotten things is a medicine kit. Many parents realise too late that they did not pack basic medicines for both kids and adults. Children’s pain relief like paracetamol, a few plasters, tummy medicine, and even a thermometer can save a lot of trouble on the road. It is always better to have these on hand than to search for a pharmacy in a new place, especially late at night.
Most parents only carry an extra shirt or two for the kids, but imagine if the child spilled juice all over you. What would you do then? And, it is not just about packing an extra shirt. Most parents often wish they had brought more socks, underwear, and even a spare jacket.
Many parents always say they wish they had packed more snacks. Kids get hungry all the time, especially when they are bored or waiting at airports, so just a few snacks might not be enough. Healthy snacks like fruit bars, nuts, and crackers are perfect. Don’t forget to throw in something sweet for a change or just a small treat for emergencies.
Sleeping in a new place can be hard for kids. Many parents say they forgot to pack their child’s favourite teddy, blanket, or bedtime storybook, and they regretted it. A white noise machine or even a phone app that makes soft sounds can also help kids feel more at home and relaxed. These little things help children settle down and sleep better, which means a better night for everyone.
Long flights, road trips, or even waiting in lines can be boring for kids. That is when entertainment becomes very important. Don't forget to pack headphones, colouring books, or tablet chargers, or you will pay the price in tantrums. Make sure you pack a good mix of fun, such as a tablet with kids’ shows, small books, sticker packs, and most importantly, a power bank or charger to keep your devices running. And remember, don’t rely on Wi-Fi. It doesn’t always work.
We live in a digital world, but phones run out of battery, and apps can crash. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard when you can’t find your boarding pass or hotel booking on your phone.
It is always a good idea to pack printed copies of important travel documents like passports, booking confirmations, and boarding passes. Keep them in a small folder or plastic wallet so everything stays safe and dry. It is an extra step that many people forget, but you never know when it might save the day.
Even the most organised parents forget things sometimes, and that is completely normal and okay. When packing for your kids, remember that it is the little things that matter. Things like a soft blanket, their favourite snack, or their favourite book can make your child feel safe and happy, even when far from home. Make a simple checklist way before your travel date and start packing early. Don’t wait until you are already on the plane or at the beach to realise what you missed.
If you want the latest information on the best Hotel Executive Club Lounges, Hotel Kids Clubs and other travel information, be sure to sign up for our free newsletter full of tips and great travel ideas.