47 Helpful Packing Hacks for Every Mom Traveling With Kids

Packing for vacation is time-consuming, stressful, and anxiety-producing. But, it doesn’t have to be. If you dream of packing in an organized manner and beginning your vacation with a positive and peaceful vibe, these practical packing hacks for moms are just what you need.

Pin This for Your Mom Friends Especially if they are Traveling With Kids for the First Time.

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Packing Hacks Mom’s Carry On Bag

Many of us struggle to check a bag. And it’s not just the cost.

• How long will I have to wait at the baggage claim?
• Will I get all of my stuff back?  
• My suitcase, will it return as I left it?
• What if that bottle of rum busts all over my clothes? It’s been known to happen.
• Will I ever see my suitcase again?

All of these are legitimate concerns.  

However, packing everything you need in a carry-on is an art AND a science. And it is not for everyone. Here are nine super helpful quick packing hacks and tips for traveling moms that may just get you there.

1. Create a strict packing list for each family member a few days before you plan on packing. And stick to it. 
2. Wear items on the plane that take up a lot of space. For example, those running shoes are super comfortable for travel day. Flights and airports are cold, so wear your hoodie, wrap, or a light jacket.  
3. Use packing cubes; they will keep you so organized. And when you unpack your suitcase in your Airbnb or hotel room, they can be used as drawer liners.
4. Use bar shampoo, conditioner, face serum, moisturizer, and laundry detergent instead of those bulky liquid containers. This hack will save you from spillage, too.
5. Store rolled-up socks or toiletries in your shoes.
6. Use an e-reader such as Kindle Paperwhite or purchase audiobooks with Audible (you will only need your iPhone and AirPods to listen).
7. Roll an entire outfit and pack it as one bundle — this is perfect for kids. Then unroll an outfit a day. Kids love getting involved in this fun event while packing for their vacation. 
8. Minimize beauty products by packing smaller amounts in contact lens cases perfect for serums, moisturizers, under the eye creams, even toothpaste.
9. If you think you don’t need it, you probably don’t. So, don’t pack it!

Full disclosure — I am a chronic over-packer.  I am improving, but I am not there yet. Yep, still checking bags. BUT, I haven’t had a “too heavy” tariff in a long time.

Must-Know Packing Hacks for Not Just New Moms, But Every Mom Traveling With Littles

#1) Create a personal packing list per person and stick to it.  

Create a packing list for each family member and save it in a file ready to print and personalize. Include everything they will need: number of outfits, undergarments, shoes, medications, toiletries, and what to pack in their day pack.

#2) Save your packing list when you get back.  

Go over your list when you return, cross off what you didn’t use, and add what you should have packed.

#3) Packing cubes are life-changing.  

Use packing cubes; pack them with similar items, and fit them in your suitcase like a glove. Save space, stay organized. And when you remove them from your suitcase in your Airbnb or hotel room, they can be used as drawer liners. I am not sure what took me so long to try packing cubes.  

Here are a few creative ideas and tips on how to use packing cubes.

• Keep it simple: small cube for undergarments and socks, medium cube for your daily outfits, and a large cube for hoodies.
• Color code for each family member.  
• Or color code for specific types of clothing. For example, pack your socks and underwear in a green packing cube, your gym clothes in the purple cube, and your daily outfits rolled up in the pink cube.

#4) Use vacuum-packed bags.  

Add your clothes to the vacuum-packed bag. Attach the travel pump and suck all of the air out of the bag. This process will reduce the size of your bags by about 50% and seriously reduce the space taken up by your clothes. 

Here is a fantastic tip from Alisha at Thriftin and Livin. She left this tip in the comments of this post and it’s brilliant.

“Also, if you don’t have vacuum bags, you can put outfits into a gallon size ziploc bag, sit on it to release the air, and zip it shut while you’re sitting on it. Sounds weird, I know, but beats buying a bunch of vacuum bags and saves space!”

#5) Ninja Packing Hack for Moms: Fabric Softener Sheets.  

Line your suitcase with fabric softener dryer sheets to keep everything smelling fresh.

#6) Purchase a luggage scale.

Don’t let it sneak up on you, or you will have to pay a steep tariff.

Utkarsh from Journeys From Heart sent me two helpful packing hacks for moms.  

Often mothers to young kids find it cumbersome to plan out their travel, and one of the crucial reasons for this being the hassle to make so many packing arrangements keeping in mind their kids. I would like to talk about two packing hacks that I use and how easy it makes your life.

#7) Dress in layers.

So layering basically is effective when your trip consists of multiple climate zones, like say you are traveling from a colder area to a warmer one—packing your clothes in the form of sets that you may actually wear and go well together. Keeping them in sequence, starting from the light to bulky, in case you visit from a cooler to a warmer place.

Also, while making a purchase, one can keep in mind the layers of clothes that go well together.

#8) Pack shoes in bubble wrap.

Shoes are an important part of apparel and probably also the one that requires strategic packing; otherwise can cost you a lot of space if done randomly. Always try to start with the heavy shoe at the bottom, stuff the shoe with socks, undergarments, and some tea bags to keep it fresh.

Also, keep an extra set of bubble wrap inside in case the shoes get dirty, and you need to repack; the double layers help keep other things clean.

Try making sets based on seasonal wear, i.e., cold, summer or casual, etc.

For shoes with long laces (sneakers), tie them together in a bundle to keep intact.

#9) Only pack two (maybe three) pairs of shoes.

Pack a pair of shoes for workouts that can double for hiking and strolling the city streets, and one cute strappy sandal for more formal occasions (or boots if cold climate). Maybe add a pair of flops, crocks, or slides.

Here are two tips for moms traveling with infants from Giulia and Jes.

The first tip is from Giulia of Travelling Sunglasses and is helpful when traveling with babies.

#10) Pack four items per type of clothing.

When I went on my first long trip with my baby, I quickly realized that his clothes would require a whole backpack. I wanted to bring all his cute outfits, the funny t-shirts, the comfy pants, and some more in case he gets dirty. When I couldn’t close the backpack, I knew I needed another strategy. 

By paying attention to our daily life and the frequency of stains/diaper accidents, I decided to pack 3/4 items per type: four bodies, three t-shirts, four trousers, three hoodies, etc. Most items could be mixed and matched, so I wasn’t tied to a specific outfit. 

Having four items per type meant that one was being worn, one was clean and ready, and the other two were being washed or were drying. This way, the baby always had something cute and clean to wear, I didn’t have to do the laundry every day, and everything fit in the backpack. 

Total win! 

Here is an efficient packing list for a 3-months old baby 

I wish I had this when my kids were babies.

#11) Purchase a sturdy, functional diaper bag — This second tip is from Jes of Touristtotravellers when traveling with infants.  

Having a newborn is one of the most gratifying experiences in the world. At the same time, it can be very exhausting and challenging for a new mom. Thankfully there are many products on the market that make life easy for new moms. 

One such product is a Diaper Bag. A diaper bag makes life easy while stepping out of the house. A good diaper bag can easily store baby’s milk bottles, water bottles, clothes, towels, formula boxes, and much more. Some noteworthy features are:

1. It comes with insulated pockets to retain the temperature. 
2. It’s made of waterproof material that makes it resistant to water.
3. Smart compartmentalization featuring multiple pockets to store the baby’s various necessities in different pockets lets you stay organized. 
4. It can be used as a tote bag or shoulder carry bag. 

#12) Pack a day pack (a backpack, but smaller).

Start the kiddos early, packing what they need for the flight or the road trip. They’ll feel so mature toting around their things, plus they can personalize what they want to have with them.

#13) Contact lens cases come in handy.  

Minimize beauty products by packing smaller amounts in contact lens cases perfect for serums, moisturizers, under the eye creams, even toothpaste.  

#14) Purchase these travel-sized toiletry bottles and cream travel jars.  

Or bring travel-sized toiletries only.

#15) Protect your cologne.  

If you must pack a fragile item such as your favorite cologne, pack it in a sock or two.

#16) And use a binder clip to cover your razor blade to protect the blade, your clothes, and your skin.

#17) Pack solid toiletries.

Victoria from Guide Your Travel recommends packing solid toiletries, here is why.

Packing toiletries can be tricky, especially when it comes to avoiding leaks. Shampoo and conditioner bottles tend to always spill in your bag somehow, and packaging them in lots of plastic bags creates unnecessary waste. The perfect solution and an absolute gamechanger when it comes to packing is to switch to solid shampoo or conditioner bars. They are often plastic-free, create less waste, and take up less space in your bag—no more leaks and more space to pack other essentials. 

More and more companies are coming out with solid toiletries, including face wash, sunscreen, or other products that would otherwise be liquid. 

Solid toiletries are an absolute must-have for every traveler and new mum.

#18) And tooth tabs.

Lavinia D from Continent Hop loves using Lush tooth tabs. She shared this idea with me.

Tooth tabs have been one of the best products I’ve used while traveling as they not only not messy but last for ages. Toothpaste is one item that many tend to forget easily; however, one bottle of tooth tabs lasts quite a while as just 1/2 tabs create lots of foam and leave you with a fresh feeling too. 

One of the best brands of tooth tabs I’ve used is Lush. They’re organic and made in small batches, so you can rest assured that natural products are used. They’re also quite budget-friendly, considering how long they last! The bottle can also be recycled.

#19) Pack a couple of canvas shopping bags for the market or souvenir shopping.  

And maybe even mesh bags for produce. 

Exploring the local markets is a way to immerse yourself in the culture, eat fresh and healthy options, and try new things. 

#20) Share luggage in case of lost bags. (AKA cross-packing).  

Add two outfits to your traveling partner’s suitcase, and you pack two of theirs in yours. Do the same for the kiddos. AND, add a change of clothes to your carry-on if flying; you never know. I once had a suitcase inadvertently taken that looked just like mine, an honest mistake. But it was a full day without my stuff.

#21) Use hanging storage-like a shoe organizer style — a useful packing hack for moms shared by Helen from Things Helen Loves.

Pop into each pocket a few nappies, pack of wipes, spare sleepsuit, etc. Roll up tight to pack, and then just hang up wherever you are for an instant baby station. As the years progress, the same system works for different stages of parenting. Now with pre-teens and teens, it’s all about organizing chargers, cables, and snacks!

Whatever parenting season you are in, it keeps everything you need to hand. Organized. Contained. And even if you’re short on space, there’s always someplace to hang something up!

#22) Dress everyone in layers on travel day.  The airports are cold, the flights, too. Bring a hoodie, blanket scarf, light sweater, or jacket. Wearing space-consuming clothes on travel day save space in your luggage, too.

#23) Pack your outfits with intention.  

Check your itinerary and pack your outfits based on the activities on your itinerary. Are you hiking one day? Then pack one set of hiking clothes and shoes. Snorkeling and hanging on the boat? Then add a swimsuit, goggles, sunscreen, rash guard, and cover up to your packing list. Yoga every morning? Add your yoga mat and a couple of athletic outfits to your list.

#24) And yes, I am gonna say it. You don’t need that fancy outfit.  

I can’t tell you how many times I have packed a fancy outfit and NEVER used it. Of course, if you are traveling for a destination wedding, then you need that cute outfit. But most vacations are casual anyways. 

#25) And pack wrinkle-resistant clothes.  

Then you won’t need to bust out the iron or handheld steamer.

#26) But, pack Wrinkle Release, just in case.  It smells good, too.

#27) Roll your clothes.  

I am #teamrollyourclothes, are you? Some love it, and some don’t. Rolling your clothes saves space, decreases wrinkles, and simplifies finding your outfit of the day. I love this idea — roll up an entire outfit into one, including undergarments and socks. Place them side by side for each day of vacation for grab and go.

#28) My favorite traveling mom tip is to roll each outfit, including undergarments, and pack each day in a separate bag. 

Don’t forget to label the bag.

#29) Pack a poncho, not an umbrella — a major space-saving tip.

#30) Plan to do a load of laundry midway through your vacation.  

Make it a rule to only pack for four to five days. I know it seems like maybe you shouldn’t be doing laundry while on vacation, but hear me out. Bring a book, or your laptop, check your email, upload vacation pictures, have a glass of wine (one load is just enough time for one glass), meditate, and do a load of laundry.

Use bar detergent or these Tide travel packs, or some places have laundry tablets for purchase.

#31) Wear your running or gym shoes on the plane.  

They are comfortable for travel day, and that’s more space for you in your luggage.

#32) Pack heavy items like shoes, jeans, and toiletries close to the wheels of the suitcase. 

The suitcase will stand up and stay up and roll easier. Plus, the heavier stuff won’t weigh down on top of your clothes and wrinkle them.

#33) Pack a multipurpose tool in your checked bag (it will be confiscated if you try to sneak it into your carry-on).

You never know when you’ll need a corkscrew to open a bottle of wine, a beer opener, a toothpick, or tweezers to pluck a wayward eyebrow hair. Plus, dads feel super manly when they can break out their “McGyver, “at least my husband does.  

#34) For jewelry.  

Remember, it’s not good to show your wealth while traveling — this will invite thieves. But, if you must bring a few small pieces of jewelry, pack them in a pillbox or contact lens case.

#35) Sunglass cases come in handy.  

Keep those old sunglass cases to use for chargers and AirPods.

#36) And my favorite packing hack for moms: Don’t forget to pack these for the wine or rum purchase on the way back.

#37) The hat trick.  

If you are spending your days on the beach or at the swim-up pool bar, you will need a wide-brimmed hat. To maintain the shape of your hat, stuff it with socks, place it flat on the bottom of the suitcase, and pack the rest around the brim.

#38) What if there is no wifi?

• Download offline apps for those no wifi kind of moments.
• Pack a deck of UNO cards and a doodle pad. Mad libs are kinda funny, too.
• Bring an actual book.
• Make a travel playlist and pack your earbuds.
• Coloring book, the adult version, is fun and relaxing for sure.
• Ninja Tip: Pack triangle-shaped crayons for the littles. They won’t slide off the airplane tray table.

#39) Ziploc bags.

I love this packing hack for moms shared by Debbie Fettback from WorldAdventurists.

Ziploc bags can be a lifesaver in many situations. We have been saved several times from accidents because of having a couple of Ziploc bags with us! 

If you have items that could burst and get very messy in transport, you will want to make sure those are secured in a Ziploc bag. The last thing you need when trying to enjoy a trip is to have diaper cream or sunscreen all over your clothes. 

Also, it is always helpful to have a couple of additional extra-large Ziploc bags with you. They are great to have on hand if one of the kids gets sick on your family road trip — to store soiled clothes from accidents or getting dirty, to seal away the stink of soiled diapers when you are in nature, or to keep your phone and camera sand free at the beach. 

And this…

#40) Pack Travel-Sized Items — A tip shared by Delilah Hart from Our Travel Mix.

Having traveled full-time pre-covid, mastering how to pack a suitcase as light as possible was absolutely necessary. One packing hack that changed my life was packing travel-sized items. As most toiletries are heavy liquids, this hack not only saves you space but also saves you weight — this has proven especially helpful when traveling budget airlines where weight restrictions are super strict!

Nowadays, your favorite products also come in travel-sized forms, from shampoos, conditioners, and soaps, to mini hairbrushes and razors. 

When traveling with young ones, you can also find small bottles of baby oils and baby powder to bring along on your trip. I also travel with makeup sample sachets and perfume testers to save that extra bit of room. 

Consider investing in your own silicone bottles, so once the product is used up, the bottles can collapse and provide more space in your luggage to store your holiday purchases.

#41) Pack only half of what you think you need.  

I learned a good one while packing for our sailing adventure in the British Virgin Islands. The first time we sailed for ten days, I brought back half of my clothes unused. The second time we sailed for a week, I did a little better, although I still did not use about a quarter of what I packed. The third time was a charm. 

Or, if you have a vacuum-sealed bag, you can pack everything using half the space. 

#42) Always have plenty of healthy-ish snacks available.  

No one likes a hangry traveler! I always pack more than I feel we need, in case we are stuck somewhere, hungry, and hours away from a meal.

#43) Pack refillable water bottles for everyone.  

It is super fun to personalize the water bottles and add this to their travel basket. Never pay for bottled water again at the airport. Once you pass the TSA interrogation, fill up each water bottle for the flight.  

#44) Pack your first aid kit in a clear bag.  

And bring extra medications to ensure that you don’t run out.

Click here to learn what to include and find an instantly downloadable printable.  

#45) Throw in a laundry bag to keep separate your dirty clothes.  

You can also use a pillowcase for the same purpose.

#46) Souvenirs?  

Leave a little space for souvenirs for your family and friends.

#47) Have a dedicated packing drawer (or chest!) at home — a fun tip shared by Abigail King from Inside the Travel Lab.

Instead of scrabbling around trying to find all those essentials you only ever need when you travel, have a travel drawer. Tip everything like passports, adapters, money belts, and travel toiletries into that one space instead of giving them all separate places around the house. It saves so much time and sanity when packing — and unpacking on the return.

Here are the steps to take to entertain a toddler on a plane from Abigail.

#48) Epic Vacation Prep Basket Items for Kiddos.  

Make this a special treat for them (and maybe even your travel partner) before embarking on your journey. Here are fun things to include in your surprise vacation basket.

• Personalized reusable water bottle
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Chapstick
• Doodle pad
• Coloring book
• Triangle crayons or
• Colored Pencils
• Mad Libs
• Deck of Uno Cards
• Healthy-ish snacks (Here is a list of ideas)
• Headphones or AirPods
• Ipad with loaded movies and games that you can watch or play offline
• A travel journal (read these travel journal prompt ideas) or sign up below and I will send you a list of travel journal prompts from A to Z.

Ten Packing Mistakes You Need to Avoid

1. Not planning ahead of time. 
2. Forgetting to pack a rain jacket or poncho.
3. Not making a packing list.
4. Packing too much stuff you don’t need.
5. Not checking the weather.
6. Jeans! They take up space, and they are uncomfortable. Leave them home.
7. Too many shoes.
8. Packing a blow dryer and flat iron — most places have a blow dryer for you to use. And do you really need to flat iron your hair? Probably not.
9. Forgetting to pack layers.
10. Bringing that fancy dress and those uncomfortable shoes. How many times have I packed an outfit and shoes for dress-up and haven’t used them? Too many. Plus, our vacations are casual. Of course, if you are headed out for a destination wedding, you kind of need that outfit and heels.

One Final Ninja Packing Hack for Traveling Moms

 Once you are packed and ready to go, tie a personalized ribbon around the handle of all of the suitcases, a ribbon that is hard to miss. Luggage coming off of that baggage claim all looks the same, except yours with your bright purple ribbon.

47 of the best packing hacks and tips for moms, that’s a lot. But, do you have any advice to add? Comment below and let me know your best packing hack or tip for traveling moms. I will add it to my list.

Oh and please share this with your traveling friends, especially those first-time traveling moms.