Families For Life | Your Go-To Travel Checklist for Trips with Kids

Each time you're about to leave the house for your well-deserved trip, there are probably a lot of things running through your mind, one of them being, “Have we packed everything?”

Now that you're packing not just for yourself but for your kids as well, things can get overwhelming. From milk bottles to your own skincare, there's a lot to fit into your luggage. We understand the struggle, and we're here to help! Here's a comprehensive checklist you can refer to so your travel preparations will be smooth and stress-free!

The Essentials

Let’s start with the most important things you'll need for your holiday. Without these, there’s a high chance you’d need to make a U-turn back home, so make sure they’re packed the night before you leave!

• Passports (make sure there are at least 6 months remaining before all the expiry dates)

• Travel insurance documents

• Boarding pass 

• Credit card, cash 

Toiletries

If you or your kids have sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to pack your own soaps and lotions. Remember to make sure they’re travel-friendly and store them in a sealed bag to prevent any troublesome spills.

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash

• Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner 

• Lotion, skincare

• Sunscreen 

• Insect repellent 

Clothes

Here’s a tip: use a separate packing cube for each family member to keep things organised, making it easier to find the outfit you need!

• Basic wear (suitable for the weather during time of travel)

• Outerwear (to keep warm during a cold flight)

• Pyjamas 

• Underwear 

• Swimwear, goggles, inflatable toys

• Footwear, socks 

For the baby and toddler

If these are easily accessible at your travel destination, you could pack just enough to last for the journey there, saving some luggage space. However, it’s still wise to pack a few extra diapers or snacks, just in case! 

Additionally, be sure to bring along your child’s 'chou chou' or 'bantal busuk'—their inseparable pillow. It will save you from a meltdown when they start crying because they can’t sleep without it.

• Diapers, diaper cream 

• Changing pad

• Milk bottles and powder 

• Food and snacks 

• Wet wipes 

• Favourite pillow or ‘blankie’

Entertainment  

Long trips can be boring, especially for younger kids, so it’s important to keep them entertained before they start becoming restless. 

• Favourite toy 

• Simple games (like playing cards or puzzles)

• Drawing and colouring equipment 

• Books

• Tablets with downloaded movies or shows 

Electronics

Holidays are a time to unwind and disconnect, we get it. But we know you’ll want to capture memories to reminisce about later! More practically, you’ll probably need your phone for directions and to contact each other, so don’t forget to pack these in!

• Mobile phones 

• Chargers

• Travel adapter 

• Power bank 

• Camera  

Medical needs 

It’s never ideal to experience food poisoning or come down with a high fever while on vacation. Having some medication on hand can ensure that everyone stays healthy and can quickly get back to enjoying the holiday.

• Medicine for cold, fever, food poisoning 

• Allergy medications 

• Plasters 

• Current prescriptions

• Contact lenses, case, solution 

If you forget some things (even with this extremely thorough list), stay calm. You can always buy a replacement at your destination or make do with what you already have. Be flexible, and remember to do one very important thing: just enjoy your holiday!