Packing the Family
I always dread when we travel. I know that sounds funny - crazy even! It's a great opportunity to travel, to leave work behind and to enjoy. But the preparation - the preparation nearly kills me each time. Packing up an entire family and getting them ready to go somewhere is no easy task. There are, however, a few things that you can do to make it an easier experience. Let's take a look at some of these. Each one takes one. That's my family's motto. What does it mean? Well, each family member gets one item to pack and carry. If you end up bringing 20 pairs of underwear and no shirts - then I guess you are going to look quite funny on our trip. Even when the kids were really little, we would give each of them a backpack and tell them that this was their special bag. They could pack whatever they wanted here - but the rule was that they had to carry it. So, they better pack well and not bring too much. We found that they took responsibility for this item well and made sure to take care of the things that they brought. When the kids are older, you can make them in charge of an entire suitcase and allow them to carry it around - it's not your responsibility and it makes things a lot easier.
Also - consider where you are going. If there is any way to wash laundry, don't bring too much stuff. Yes, you will wear the same thing over again, but who cares? Packing light is really one of the best ways to minimize the stress of packing and traveling. If there isn't anywhere to get things laundered, then try to keep your clothes down to a minimum - and certainly keep your shoes down. Yes, maybe at home you like to wear a nice pair of dress shoes when you go out to dinner. Well, you can go without on this trip. I recommend getting by on two pair of shoes - period.
Hope these two simple tips help for the next trip you go on. Now, if I can only take my own advice, maybe I'll be less stressed as I pack for that next trip!
Bon Voyage!
