Family Vacation Ideas & Packing List

Essentials Items to Pack on a Family Vacation

Spring break and summer vacation mean packing up the kids and hitting the road. Did you know that filling your tank is still cheaper than flying? America’s interstates can connect you to mountains, beaches, amusement parks, and countless outdoor adventures.  Whether you are crossing state lines to visit family, exploring the vast and varied state and national parks, heading to Disneyland or the beach, road trips are the American way to travel. Getting there is part of the adventure, but to keep your family safe and happy, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared, before you even back out of the driveway.

One challenge of taking a road trip is packing up, especially when you are trying to plan ahead with kids. Even if your kids are a little older, you’ll need to include snacks and plenty of entertainment.  By planning ahead, you can avoid that annoying last-minute trip to the drugstore, or the stressful moment when you realize you don’t have paper towels to clean up a spill. There are of course the basics: clothes, shoes, swimsuits, and everything that can go in your suitcase, but this list covers everything that should be readily available while you are on the road.

 Here is the family friendly ultimate road trip packing list!

Family Vacation Ideas & Checklist

All the things you need for a successful family trip.

  • Band-Aids
  • Chapstick
  • Sunscreen
  • Cleanser
  • Lotion
  • Insect repellant
  • Movies and entertainment
  • Books
  • Painkillers/fever reducer
  • Maps
  • Bookings and reservations
  • Driver’s license and identification
  • Insurance and registration documents
  • Travel guides
  • Hair brush
  • Spray-in conditioner
  • Garbage bags
  • Ziplock bags
  • Stocked cooler
  • Snacks
  • Utensils
  • Plates and cups
  • Headphones
  • Pens and paper
  • Pillows and blankets