Travel tip #3: Let the kids pack! Really! Free Packing Lists included!

I have a nine-year-old and a six-year-old.  In May we went on a four day trip and I tried something new.  I had them pack their own suitcases.  Really.  I know what you are thinking!  But, no, they didn't end up with 2 t-shirts and no underwear.  I made them packing lists, ones I can print out again, and it worked gloriously!  I typed out all the possible items they might need and left a blank next to each item so I can fill in the number depending on the length of our trip.  Then I left a big space after each item for them to make a check mark when they packed the items (they love making check marks).  For the younger one, I have pictures next to any items she might have trouble reading.

I had saved the clear zippered cases bedspreads and sheets come in (unfortunately I save stuff, not a good trait for someone who moves a lot, but this time I actually used the stuff!).  I had them use these cases (a laundry basket lined with a trash bag works for those of you smart enough not to save "stuff") and they filled their bags, zipped them up and brought them upstairs to the big duffel bag.  I dropped the two clear cases into the duffel, zipped it up, and, "Wa La," packing was done.  When we arrived at our destination, I lifted the clear cases out of the duffel bag, no clothing jambalaya to deal with, and dumped the contents into their appropriate drawers.  Geez, I sound like one of those people who organize peoples lives for a living.  Ha!  I just kinda stumbled on this.  I have to admit, I'm quite proud of it.

I've included a Free Children's Packing List like I describe in the first paragraph, so you don't need to make one!  Just click "read more" below.  Enjoy your trip and the extra time you'll have before it not having to pack for everyone!

Here an example of one of my beautiful, ridiculously time-consuming creations, but your free, click-of-a-button printable.  The copy didn't come out perfectly here, but you get the idea.  Click on the links to take you to the original sites for downloads.  You can change them to fit your needs.  See how much I still love you?

General Packing Checklist

Girl's Packing Checklist

Boy's Packing Checklist

Girl’s packing checklist:

Item	#	x	Item	#	x	Item	#	x
Pants			Bathi			Socks
coat			Short			Hat
Rain coat			Short-shirt			Glove
shoes			Longshirt			Scarf
Sandals			Underwear			brush
Dress shoes			PJ’s			paste