We travel a lot, both in the UK and abroad, and flit between trains, planes and automobiles. I am quite OCD when packing for myself and the children, and there are certain things that we always pack to help for a (relatively!) stress free trip. So as we approach summer holiday season I thought I would share our top tips.
Of course it goes without saying that snacks, snacks and more snacks are essential, as are favourite comforters and a few toys and books to keep the little ones entertained. But here are the things that always make our packing edit.
We travel by car a lot within the UK and both my children have their own monogram LL Bean Tote Bag.
They are inexpensive, super strong and resilient and fit into the foot well of the car brilliantly. We pack them on our weekend country trips and they can fit a weekend's clothing, wash bag, pj's and a selection of toys and books. And no squabbling over each other's things! You can only buy them from the US, but they do have an online store. I also think that they're lovely as storage at home as well.
I discovered this brand a few years ago when I was in the USA and love it. I have a number of their clear pouches and always use them to organise all my bits and bobs when I travel. As they are clear I have a small size for all of my in-flight essentials and pack this before I leave the house. No faffing around with plastic bags at the airport. I also take the larger ones to the beach to keep ipads/ kindle etc. safe from sand and easily portable.
This is such an essential for me. Keeps hands clean and fresh and a beautiful fragrance too!
When my children were still in nappies we used these JoJo Maman Bebe slimline wipe cases which were brilliant. I kept one below the buggy, in the nappy bag, in the car and and in my handbag. So fab! (apart from when you forget to refill!)
I have a selection of these pretty pouches. Bonpoint bring them out each season in divine coated Liberty Prints. We use them to organise all those small toys, Lego, and little dolls and have some specifically for Colouring Pens and Pencils. As they are coated they are great to bring to the beach or by the swimming pool. Practical and Pretty!
I love to pack a mini Dipytque candle in my wash bag especially when we're staying self-catering. Just something small to add a little bit of luxury wherever we are.
We are heading to Tuscany and Puglia this summer and have lots of weekend trips to the Cotswolds planned and I can't wait. Happy travels! x