When you’re heading out on vacation with your family, you have to be smart about packing your suitcases. Despite the small space, everyone will need to be prepared for varying weather conditions and events. For instance, you’ll need jackets if it rains and nice shoes if you have dinner at a fancy restaurant.
Whether you’re heading out to the beach, camping in the mountains, or flying across the world to a new city, having the right clothes can make or break your trip.
Here are the must-have essential clothing items for your next family adventure.
1. Elastic waist pants, skirts, or joggers
Depending on how you’re traveling, you might find elastic waistbands to be more comfortable than buttons and zippers. If you’re going to be sitting for long flights or drives, wearing pants or a skirt with an elastic waist can offer unbeatable comfort and can also make hitting the restroom a lot easier.
Just be sure to check your airline’s dress code to make sure you can wear your chosen outfit. In 2017, two female passengers were barred from flying with United Airlines because they were wearing leggings. They were traveling on a “pass rider” ticket, which has a stricter dress code than for standard customers, but it’s still a good idea to check. Leggings and other form-fitting clothing is often banned because it’s made from synthetic fibers that can catch fire easily and put passengers in danger during an emergency if they need to run through a fire.
2. Compression socks
If you plan to do a lot of walking and sightseeing, compression socks can alleviate sore feet at the end of the day. They can also provide support while you explore the area. Compression socks are breathable and use graduated pressure to support circulation and prevent swelling from fluid build-up in the ankles and feet.
Many people even wear them while traveling since long flights and high altitude can put some people at risk for blood clots. If you struggle with circulation issues, consider wearing compression socks on the plane to prevent blood from pooling in your legs.
3. Slip-on shoes
Although young kids will benefit most, everyone in the family should consider packing slip-on shoes to make the trip easier. Slip-ons are much easier than trying to deal with laces and buckles, which can slow you down. They’re especially easy for going through airport security.
If slip-on shoes aren’t an option, you can get elastic shoelaces that will turn any laced show into a slip-on. They’re easy and simple to put on your shoes, and will last for a long time. There are different types of laces, so check out the difference and see which system is right for your particular shoe.
4. Swimwear coverups
If you plan on swimming or hanging out on the beach in a swimsuit, even if you don’t go into the water, it’s helpful to have some kind of coverup so you can make your way through your hotel with some modesty.
5. Water shoes
If you’re going anywhere near a river, stream, beach, or water park, you need water shoes. You will probably regret not packing them, so make space in your suitcase. Water shoes will give you better traction at a water park.
They can prevent slips and falls, and will protect your feet from hot sand and sharp rocks in rivers and streams.
6. Beanies and gloves
On cold nights, it helps to wear a beanie to bed to keep warm. As long as you have a beanie, you won’t need to pull the covers over your head or bundle up with a hooded sweatshirt. Not all beanies are made to withstand winter temperatures. Some are pretty thin and will provide you with just enough warmth on a chilly night.
Since hands are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, gloves are essential while you’re out walking or sightseeing in the cold. Be sure to get gloves with special touch screen fingertips so you can take photos and videos of your adventures.
7. Eye masks for sleep
If anyone in your family has a hard time falling asleep with sound, light, or in new environments, a sleep mask will help.
A good eye mask will block out all of the light, making it possible to take naps in the daytime or go to sleep early.
Pack smart, travel easy
A great family vacation begins with smart packing. When you bring the right clothing for the activities you have planned, your family will stay comfortable and be ready to enjoy every moment of your trip.
