Family 50 Quest

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For trips longer than 4 days, we’ve learned that packing light keeps us sane and mobile. Lugging around multiple suitcases with kids in tow quickly becomes overwhelming, so we prioritize efficiency and flexibility. Our strategy revolves around staying places with a washer and dryer (we always check reviews or call ahead to confirm), which allows us to rotate outfits instead of overpacking.

We bring our own laundry detergent sheets and plenty of quarters if we’re at a hotel with coin-operated machines. To maximize space, we rely on packing cubes to compress clothing inside our carry-on roller luggage. For flights, we make the most of our “personal item”—the kids use their school backpacks, which are the perfect size, while the parents’ carry-on and personal item are designed to fit together seamlessly. This makes walking through airports much easier thanks to our luggage system.

🌟 The Big Picture

Packing light isn’t just about saving space—it’s about making travel smoother and less stressful. With laundry access, smart gear like packing cubes, and a well-thought-out luggage system, our family of five can move through airports and destinations with ease while still having everything we need.

Here are other “tried and true” product we have used repeatedly in our travels

Packing List for Newborns & Babies

• Diapers & wipes (pack enough for travel + 1 day buffer)
• Light blanket (multi‑use: warmth, nursing cover, shade)
• Onesies & sleepers (2–3 changes per day)
• Pacifiers & teething toys
• Travel‑size baby toiletries (gentle soap, lotion, diaper cream)
• Portable changing pad
• Baby carrier or sling
• 7-in-1 bottle cleaning tool

Packing List for Toddlers

• Comfortable outfits (mix & match tops/bottoms)
• Light jacket or hoodie
• Favorite small toy or book
• Snacks in resealable bags
• Sippy cup or water bottle
• Travel‑size toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
• Compact stroller (if needed)

Packing List for Kids 5-12

• Casual clothes (3–4 outfits, easy to layer)
• Swimwear (if destination allows)
• Light sneakers & sandals
• Entertainment (activity book, tablet, headphones)
• Reusable water bottle
• Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush)
• Small backpack for day trips

Packing List for Teens

• Versatile clothing (neutral layers, 4–5 outfits)
• Comfortable shoes (sneakers + optional dress shoes)
• Personal electronics (phone, charger, earbuds)
• Travel‑size toiletries (deodorant, skincare, haircare)
• Reusable water bottle
• Book or journal
• Compact laundry bag

Universal Extras (all ages)

• Travel documents (IDs, tickets, insurance cards)
• Medications (prescriptions + small first aid kit)
• Snacks (healthy, non‑messy options)
• Lightweight towel
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

✨ The trick is to pack layered clothing, multipurpose items, and just enough entertainment to keep kids happy without weighing down the suitcase.