It's understandable why some families feel they need to over-pack. After all, you're not necessarily packing for a realistic trip, but for a worst-case scenario, for the endless possibilities that might confront you as you travel. Why else would you pack eight different outfits for your children, and five different bedtime books, and any toy you think might keep them occupied?
But you have to have faith that everything will work out, even if you don't plan for every conceivable scenario. You have to trust that if you pack lightly for you and your family they won't even miss the things you didn't pack.
And packing light is the only way to go on a family trip. Trucking bulky, cumbersome suitcases around - in addition to the kids - can be an annoying, costly, time-draining nightmare. All it takes to pack light is some planning, roll folding, re-wearable garments like merino wool travel clothing and miniature versions of essential toiletries. Simple as that.
Still not convinced? Here are four key reasons why you want to pack light on your next family trip.
You Save Money for The Things That Matter
It seems that every airline these days is levying an extra fee for checked baggage. With the whole family taking checked bags, those fees can really add up. If you just take one checked suitcase to share among the whole family (in addition to everyone's personal carry-on bags) you'll only have to pay once, and will have more than enough room for everyone's stuff. That means for money for the things that matter, like family time and meals.
You Save Time (and Energy)
If you've ever waited around a baggage carousel for 45 minutes, trying to keep your kids from running up the wall with boredom, you'll understand why it's preferable not to check any bags. The time you save by skipping the carousel, and the energy you save not have to lug your bags out of the airport and up the hotel stairs, can be better used to have a fantastic family vacation.
Your Trip Won't Be a Constant Juggling Act
Especially if you plan on traveling around your destination (i.e. seeing different cities, going to different hotels, taking day trips, etc.) than you want to be able to pick up and go. You don't want to have to juggle six different suitcases, five backpacks and a screaming kid or two. It's just too much, and it can detract from the fun of a trip.
Less Baggage Means Less to Lose
This is pretty straightforward, but any parent out there will sympathize. The more you bring on a trip, the more risk there is that something - at least one thing - is going to get lost. Some things are just better left at home, where you know they won't get lost, and will be waiting for you when you get back home.
Packing light is the only way to travel with family. It's cheaper, more convenient, less time-consuming and, most of all, it's far less frustrating.
