As a mum, you are responsible for many different things that could be left behind at some point before or during a trip. Not only do you have to remember to pack things that you will need yourself, but you may also responsible for packing everything your entire family will need during the trip. In some cases, it can feel like you are packing up the whole house when taking a trip that will only last a few days, simply because of the number of people who you have to pack for. During this process, it is only natural for things to be forgotten that you could possibly need. Fortunately, certain simple strategies can help ensure that nothing important is forgotten.
Make A Checklist
Making a checklist in the weeks before the trip is an excellent idea. On this checklist, include all the important items each member of the family will need. When you think of new things, simply add them to the list to ensure that you do not forget to pack anything important. Make different sections on the list for each family member. For example, under each child’s name, write down things such as t-shirts, shorts, underwear, toothbrush, toothpaste, medications and anything else that they will need. Ask your children if there are any personal items that they would like to bring with them and include this on the list as well. Set aside a separate suitcase for each person into which all of their items will fit. During the packing process, go over each section of the checklist as you finish each suitcase. This will help you to remember to pack everything, since you can simply check off the items as they are packed into the suitcases.
Packing To Return Home
Of course, not only do things get forgotten before a family trip, they also often get lost or forgotten at the hotel before returning home. Much like during the packing process at home, following your checklist that will help you make sure you remember all the items that need to be packed up again for the trip home. It is usually easier to pack when going home simply because most of the portable items in the room are usually yours. Problems arise when items simply get misplaced, so remember to check all the dresser drawers, the closet, bathroom, counter tops, and in and under the bed when packing. Under the bed and among the bedding is a common location for lost items since many forget to look there before returning home. Ask your children to check around the room for missing items as well, as they may be able to spot items you missed. After everything is packed away and you are about to walk out the door, take one more look through the rooms to ensure that nothing has been left behind.
Dedicated Bags
While you are out and about during the trip, there are probably things that you need to carry around with you on a daily basis — especially if you have children. Snacks, water bottles, baby bottles, diapers, small toys, sun screen and changes of clothes are all common examples. The easiest way to ensure that none of these items go missing during your trip is to have a dedicated bag or backpack in which they can all be carried. Before leaving to go out for the day, check the bag to make sure it contains everything you will need. Before coming home, look through the bag again to make sure nothing is missing. If something important is gone, back track to where you last were to see if the item can be located.
Occasionally things do get lost during trips, of course, but by following these tips you can at least minimize the likelihood of it happening to you.
Guest post contributed by Faith Thomas, on behalf of CoverMore – Holiday Insurance providers. Faith is a freelance travel writer. She contributes to various websites and enjoys sharing travel tips and ideas for organizing trips.
