Do research into your destination and lodging accommodations.
Prior to your departure browse websites about your destination. Find restaurants and activities that are near your lodging, and then check reviews to be sure it’s a place you want to add to "the list". Once you get to your destination you won’t feel so lost if you do a little bit of research. Visit Mapquest Local and Google Earth/street view to check out your surroundings!
Also check out your hotel's amenities. Free towels and laundry facilities will affect what you pack. The main purpose of your plan should be to help you feel prepared and not over-scheduled. Be realistic about the time you actually have to do things. You are most likely going to want to relax more than run around.
Take care of business at home.
Be sure to take care of any lingering business before you go. Don't forget to hold the mail, board your animals and do last minute errands like getting cash, packing snacks and collecting important information about your travel plans (directions/tickets/important numbers). Settling into leisure time takes a little prep work, but you'll be happy when you can relax.
Pick the right luggage for your trip.
Families especially have to be smart about packing. Depending on whether you are flying or driving, you may have more flexibility, but always take the essentials! Your standard suitcase will hold clothing and shoes, while a durable toiletry case will hold all your full-size toiletries, first aid items and medicines (The Traveler Elite $40).
Consider the details when packing
Decide how much luggage you need to take, then pare down or add items as needed. Some items like clothing can be bought or laundered at your destination, while special beauty products may be harder to locate and should be brought with for sure! Destination markups can be triple what you would normally pay, so being prepared will save you money and time, especially if a store is not conveniently located.
Traveling with children can be made easier by taking some time to get things in order before you take off. Your destination will be your home away from home, so settle in like it is. Things like in-room refrigerators and dining tables are nice amenities to have and it allows you to eat in for small meals like breakfast and lunch (which can save hundreds of dollars and a lot of time).
Spending time with family is so precious, take time to enjoy the moments you have and make memories that you will cherish forever.
Kristin Rae is the founder of Inspire Travel Luggage, a boutique designed line of cosmetic & toiletry luggage cases that are 100% leak proof & accommodate full-size beauty products. Learn more at www.inspiretravelluggage.com.
