Travelling
with young children or babies can be a stressful experience for most parents - even more
so if you have to turn back for forgotten vital equipment.
Packing for a trip can be made far easier if you are
organised, divide items into groups of things and use a packing checklist
to make sure you have everything you need. Try packing one group at a
time, lay everything out on a bed and slowly go through what you will
need.
This checklist is suitable for longer journeys in the
UK and for trips abroad, particuarly the annual family holiday.
Medical supplies for the family
A basic first aid kit to deal with minor illnesses
along the way
Paracetemol syrup - pre-measured sachets is
the best option
Digital thermometer
Oral rehydration salts such as Dioralyte
Cotton wool and some cotton wool buds
Sun Protection lotion at least SPF 30
Deet-free insect repellent
Pointed tweezers
Non-stick dressings
Children's fun plasters
Essential oil of lavender - a natural antibiotic
and antiseptic which prevents healing and prevents scarring
Pre-packed steri-stips which are useful for
minor cuts and grazes
Your child's prescription medicine
Moisturiser, lip balm and a water squirter
to prevent children from getting dehydrated and keep their skin soft
For babies
Car seat
Baby monitor - put new batteries in before
you leave and protect the monitor from being damaged by wrapping it
in bubble wrap and wrapping stiff card around the antennae
Lightweight pram with canopy or umbrella
Disposable nappies, nappy
bag and changing pad
Waterproof sheets
Large plastic bags for wet clothes which can
also double up as a changing pad if necessary
Nappy rash ointment and baby powder
Formula, water or juice
Wipes
Soaps and shampoos, in case of an accident
so you can give your baby a quick bath
Bibs
Baby food and spoons, bottle
and nipples
Portable high chair or booster seat.
Baby/children's sunglasses
Extra clothing such as jacket, hat
Things to amuse children en route
Walkman or portable CD player
Books on tape
Hand-held video games
Laptop with DVD player
Football or frisbee
A cooler with snacks and drinks
Camera and film
Video camera and tapes
Scrapbooks
Other family essentials
A spare set of keys
Maps and directions
Cash, credit card, wallet
Driver's Licence
Medical and insurance cards
AA card
Prescriptions and medications
Eyeglasses and contact lenses
Travel clock
Torch with extra batteries
Umbrellas
Stain remover
Pillows
Emergency road kit
Have the car inspected and serviced before you leave. Check fluid levels,
belts, caps, hoses and filters and check that all headlights, signals,
horn and radio are working properly. Make sure your spare tire is useable
and easily to hand.
Have an emergency road kit packed with these
and other items you may need:
Travelling
with young children or babies can be a stressful experience for most parents - even more
so if you have to turn back for forgotten vital equipment. 
