Summer travel with kids can be exciting, exhausting, and everything in between. As a mom of three, I know how chaotic it can get without the right gear. Whether you’re prepping for a road trip, plane ride, or weekend getaway, having the right summer travel essentials for moms makes all the difference. Here’s my tried-and-true packing list to keep your next family vacation fun—and meltdown-free.
10 Items Every Mom Needs to Pack for Summer Travel
Here’s your ultimate Summer Travel Survival Guide: 10 essentials every mom should pack to make your next family vacation smoother, happier, and a lot less chaotic.
1. Snacks That Keep Kids Happy on the Go
Hungry kids = cranky travelers. Pack a variety of snacks in zip-top bags or small containers—think granola bars, goldfish, fruit pouches, and beef sticks. Don’t forget a few “special treats” like fruit snacks or a lollipop as bribery for those extra-long waits or tantrum emergencies. Check out 👉 my favorite road trip snacks for kids.
2. Stay Hydrated with Refillable Water Bottles
Keep everyone hydrated without constantly buying bottled water. Our go-to water bottle stays cold for particular kids and doesn’t leak. The dollar store sells water by the gallon – keep one in your trunk for refills. Bonus: add hydration packets or flavor drops for picky drinkers.
3. First-Aid Kit & Medications
From scraped knees to surprise fevers, a small travel first-aid kit is a lifesaver. Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, motion sickness bags, and the cutest most convenient labeled medication box your family may need. Toss in a digital thermometer just in case.
4. Portable Phone Charger
You’ll be using your phone for maps, travel documents, entertainment, and photos—so don’t let it die mid-trip. A power bank with multiple ports is ideal for charging everyone’s devices on the go (this is made for the kids’ Fire tablet!).
5. Travel Documents + Copies
Keep passports, IDs, health insurance cards, and itinerary details organized in a travel wallet or mesh zipper pouch – clearly labeled with contact information in case it is lost in transit. I always carry both physical and digital copies of my travel documents!
Have you seen my Disney Cruise Packing List yet?
6. Entertainment for Kids (That’s Not Just Screens)
Pack a few surprises: activity books for toddlers or big kids puzzle book, magnetic tangrams, mess free doodle pads, sticker pads, card games, or a new toy. Screen time has its place, but variety helps avoid a mental melt-down and keeps kids entertained longer.
7. Change of Clothes for Everyone (Yes, You Too!)
Spills, accidents, or sudden weather changes can turn a trip messy fast. I’ve been peed, pooped, and puked on many times – in the air and in the car – and will never travel again without spare clothes. Set aside an extra outfit for everyone when you are packing for a family trip. Store the change of clothes into a ziplock bag for easy access (and storage for the messy clothes).
8. Wipes, Hand Sanitizer, and Tissues
You can never have too many wipes. Sticky hands, public restrooms, snack-time cleanup—you’ll use them constantly. Don’t forget travel-size sanitizer, a disposable placemat or toilet seat cover, and kleenex for on-the-go hygiene.
9. Travel Blanket or Lightweight Throw
Airplanes, cars, and even hotel rooms can get chilly. We always bring a soft, packable blanket with us on the go because it can double as a pillow, stroller cover, or picnic spot in a pinch.
10. Mom’s “Emergency Kit”
This is your personal sanity saver (with items just for you) and can be stored in a travel pouch. I have a Mom’s Emergency Kit with me at all times and often share it with other Moms. Include things like:
- Mini deodorant
- Lip balm
- Tampons/panty liners
- Extra hair ties
- Pocket Pharmacy (must-have)
- Eye drops
- Mini Aquaphor
- Mini Sunscreen
- Gum or mints
- Noise-canceling earbuds (trust me)
- Mini Phone Battery
- Dental floss
You can find all of my picks for Summer Travel Must Haves for Moms here.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with kids isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. A little planning—and a well-packed bag—goes a long way. These 10 essentials have saved me more times than I can count, and I hope they help you enjoy your summer adventures a little more, too.
What’s your go-to travel essential? Share it in the comments!
Leave a Reply