Summer is just around the corner and that means the pressure is on – you need to start planning a fun trip for the family! How can you visit several destinations, spend quality time with your kids, and not burn a hole in your wallet all in one simple summer vacation? Take your family on a road trip! It is an adventurous and cost-effective way to explore new places and create lasting memories. Initially you may think the idea of a road trip sounds a bit daunting, but with a little advanced planning and forethought, your road trip is bound to be a success. Of foremost importance is effective packing. By using the simple packing tips below, you can ensure a stress-free, fun-filled road trip for the entire family!

1. Make a List

As simple as it sounds, making a list of all of the items that you want to bring with you is the first step in packing wisely. Since it is so easy to forget even the most essential items (i.e. toothbrush, bathing suits, socks, underwear, etc.), it is best if this list is as complete and comprehensive as possible. Making a list like this has two benefits. First, writing items down often helps you think of other essential items you might otherwise have neglected to pack while also helping you weed out those non-essentials that would simply have wasted space. Second, making a list guarantees nothing is forgotten. To that end, items should only be crossed off the list once they have actually been placed in the duffle bag.

2. Duffle Bags for Everyone!

One of the most dreaded parts about preparing for a long road trip with the whole family is figuring out how everything will actually fit in the car! One of the most common pitfalls people run into when preparing for a road trip is not using the right type of luggage. The best rule to follow is to allow each family member to bring one suitcase (not including an easily accessible daypack). You may think that this will be impossible, but if you use luggage well suited for this type of trip it should not be a problem. The most optimal type of luggage for a road trip is a duffle bag. Expandable duffle bags are the best because they allow you to hold more stuff if needed while retaining flexibility. If you can find wheeled duffle bags and/or wheeled backpacks, these are even better because rather than straining your back carrying luggage to and from the car each time you visit a new destination, you can wheel it. In fact, if your children’s luggage is also on wheels, they can help with this carrying their own bags.

3. Loading the Trunk

Once everything has actually been packed and the bags are zipped and ready to go, it is time to load it all into the trunk of the car. This may seem like an intimidating task, but it is doable. The best way to go about it is to load up everything the day before so you have plenty of time to make any necessary adjustments. The heaviest and largest items should go in first and be placed as far forward in the cargo area as possible. The lighter items should go on top, but you will want to make sure that your belongings are not packed so high that they impair your rear visibility. Most importantly, keep all essentials (i.e. emergency aid kit, maps, flashlight, and miscellaneous supplies) in the most accessible area of your trunk. This will allow you to access those items in an emergency without unpacking the entire trunk.

Labels: packing tips, road trip, road trip luggage