Get Organized… Summer Vacation

Summer vacation is finally here, and with the kids out of school, it’s time to embrace the adventure that awaits! These next two months are packed with opportunities to travel, whether it’s a day at the beach or a weekend getaway to the mountains. To make the most of your summer while keeping things organized and stress-free, here are some essential tips.

First, create a travel checklist for each trip. This will not only help you remember all the essentials but also ensure that nothing gets left behind. Include items like sunscreen, swimsuits, hiking gear, and snacks depending on your destination. Having a dedicated list for each destination can streamline your packing process and reduce last-minute chaos.

Next, use packing cubes or bags to keep your luggage organized. This will make it easier to find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase. Labeling each cube with its contents can also save time, especially when you’re in a hurry. I have a different colored set for each kid and it really has made a huge difference, especially if packing in the same bag. No more digging through to find their stuff. I love these ones from Target.

Get the kids involved in the packing process by having them choose their outfits for the trip. Give them guidelines such as the quantity of each clothing item, bathing suits, shoes and sneakers, and pajamas depending on your trip. Give them their own checklist so they can mark it off as they go. I also have my kids pack their own books, art supplies and games that they want. This not only makes them feel included but also teaches them valuable skills about planning and decision-making. And that moms bag isn’t an endless pit like they think.

Another great idea is to set up a family calendar for the summer. Mark down all your planned trips, kids camps and activities. I like to assign each family member a color so we can easily see who is doing something on any given day. We do this year round and it’s a game changer A visual reminder can help everyone stay on the same page and build excitement for your upcoming trips. The littles can put a big x through each day as your trip gets closer. Plus, it allows you to plan for downtime. While it’s tempting to fill every moment with activities, make sure to carve out some time for relaxation. Whether it’s enjoying a chill movie day or grabbing an ice cream after a day at the beach, these moments are just as important for a well-rounded vacation, whether home or away.

Finally, don’t forget about technology! Use apps for travel planning, packing lists, and even itineraries. There are many tools available that can help streamline your organization efforts, making it easier to manage everything from accommodations to activity bookings. We haven’t taken these all out for a spin but some highly rated ones are:

 Tripit : Automatically imports booking confirmations from your email for master itinerary management 

Google Travel: Tracks reservations from Gmail, suggests things to do and helps with hotel/flight search. 

Roadtrippers:  Helps you map routes, suggests stops for dining and attractions and even can calculate fuel costs. 

PackPoint: Suggests what to pack based on weather, destination and trip activities.

By incorporating some , if not all, of these organizing tips, you’ll not only be ready for a jam-packed summer but also create lasting memories while keeping stress at bay. Enjoy every moment of your family adventures! Safe travels!