Hey Mama,
I'm Mariah, and I have to confess—I’m an avid overpacker. I proudly admit it, and I’m here to share why it might just be the best approach for you too.
You see, my overpacking strategy isn’t about bringing the entire closet; it’s about ensuring that I spend as much quality time as possible with my family, rather than frantically searching store aisles for something we forgot. Trust me, nothing ruins a trip faster than realizing you're out of a baby essential and the only place that carries it is online, leaving you scrambling for a less-than-ideal alternative.
But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be that way. After a few too many packing mishaps, I’ve learned to embrace overpacking—just a little—so that I can focus on what really matters: making memories with my family.
Here are my top four travel packing tips to keep you prepared and stress-free:
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Plan Outfits by Day and Activity
Map out your trip day by day and plan specific outfits for each occasion, taking into account the weather and activities. I even pack down to the socks and underwear, which saves so much time when getting out the door. This approach ensures you have exactly what you need and helps avoid overpacking. -
Pack Extra Essentials for Emergencies
No matter your child’s age, you can never have too many wipes. Keep them in the car, your purse, and anywhere else within reach for those inevitable spills. When it comes to clothing, pack a few extra outfits for each child—at least double what you think you’ll need. If your trip is four days long, pack enough for eight. This way, you’re prepared for any spills, blowouts, or unexpected weather changes.
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Use Packing Cubes or Ziplock Bags for Organization
Packing cubes or large Ziplock bags are game-changers for keeping everything organized. I separate clothing by day, child, or type of item (like pajamas), which makes it so much easier to find what you need without turning your suitcase upside down. For liquids, double-bag them in Ziplock bags to prevent leaks and avoid the hassle of washing all your clothes on vacation. -
Consider Climate and Layering Options
Be ready for unpredictable weather by packing clothing that can be layered. Lightweight jackets, sweaters, and hats are essential. I always pack a sweatshirt and jeans for my kids, no matter the destination—museums and movie theaters can get chilly! And don’t forget a blanket—babies can’t regulate their temperature as well as older kids, so it’s always good to have one on hand. Plus, it doubles as a picnic blanket for the whole family.
These are my go-to travel tips for a stress-free, well-prepared trip.
XO,
Mariah Anderson Smetak (Co-founder of XO Jane and Co)