Packing for a Multi-City Family Trip

Whether planning a whirlwind family vacation or a multi-city bleisure trip with plans to meet up with the kids, packing can seem a little overwhelming. How to dress for a diverse range of activities, for multiple destinations, changing weather and all the possibilities in between make the process seem much more stressful. No worries — break out the luggage, we have a plan!

Pack with a Plan

If you are packing for the kids, start with them. Make a list of possible outfits they will need and start checking off the basics. Include a few wrinkle-resistant and layering options they can mix and match, quick wash and quick dry for multi-city destinations. By getting all the most important items and necessary accessories and outfits packed away for the kids, you can focus clearly on your own luggage later.

Make a list. Whether traveling somewhere solo, with your partner or with the whole crew — have a scheduled itinerary in mind. Even if you only have a few set plans, it’s easier to begin with those outfits first. By chipping away at a few day and night outfits you know you need for tours, dinners and special occasions, you can easily navigate the rest of your luggage for an extended trip.

Choose Comfortable, Safe Options

Pack your bag with favorite, most-loved, go-to outfits. This may seem boring and a lot less like “vacation” clothes, but by bringing a few staples, you’re more likely to use what you wear and not accidentally pack wasted options.

A few staples you won’t regret packing: an athleisure outfit, this can double as a day tour outfit or for light exercise; something dressy for a nice dinner or night out; casual day clothes that can be dressed up or down with different accessories; and layerable outerwear, including sweaters or light weather-proof jackets.

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Preparing luggage for extended vacation. Photo: Inews77 | Dreamstime.com

Pack by Day and Destination

Once you have set outfits lined up, it can be helpful to pack them in individual cubes to be stored in your luggage by day and situation. If you have a multi-destination trip, have a few cubes filled for each city — this way you can guarantee you will have a clean group of clothing by the time you get to your next destination and you won’t be tempted to blow them all in the first few days of your trip.

Get Creative

For all the free time, possibility for spontaneity or still to-be-determined days, find a mix of versatile outfits for your family. Just like you did with the kid’s luggage, consider a few light, easy wash-and-wear clothing you can layer or take off, depending on the situation. Always roll your clothing and try to have some spare space in your luggage for emergency purchases.

Most hotels offer laundry services, or even have a washer and dryer on premises and can help you make the most of your outfits from city to city.