LIFESTYLE

How to pack the perfect suitcase

18 July 2018

Packing for the family? Panic not with these easy steps from mum of three 

and seasoned packer, kidswear editor Maggie Davis

If ever the ‘less is more’ rule needs to be adhered to, it’s when packing for the family. With three children under the age of 10, including a toddler still in nappies, it’s very easy to overpack. Over the years and with quite a few family holidays under the belt from weekend breaks to big, long-haul trips, I’ve come to realise some things are absolutely essential – like lots of clean underwear, which doesn’t take up too much space – and others are not, such as heavy colouring books and large toys they won’t even play with once the pool is in sight. Bulky jeans and sweaters stay at home but a good hoodie for everyone is a must – not only useful for the plane but handy for evenings out when the temperature drops.

Happily, you needed forego style when packing sensibly. Quiet the reverse. Instagram fashion blogger Alex Stedman of The Frugality, pictured above, who recently went away with her four-month-old baby, Peggy, says: “I tend to pack for holiday with a colour pallet in mind. I pick around four colours and try and pack using those. That way, everything you pack matches and you don't have to think too much on holiday, leaving you time to relax instead.” Sound advice.

1. Start by selecting your luggage. If you are travelling by plane, go for a good family-sized but lightweight suitcase with four wheels like one of these that will be easy to wheel through the airport. I’ve learned to share all our stuff between two suitcases. That way, you only have two cases to take around the terminal. For more ideas on what to pack, check out our Pack like a pro feature.

2. At least a week before your holiday, start to lay things out, ideally on a double bed so you can see what’s what. Organise everything by person. I ensure that the kids each have two pairs of shoes – a pair of practical girls’ or boys’ sandals and a pair of flip-flops (with trainers for travelling in). If your kids are going to be swimming a lot, in the pool or the sea, I also find goggles and at least two or three swimsuits per boy or girl, essential. A small beach towel for each child, then some lightweight outfits; girls’ summer dresses and boys’ shorts. If you’d like more ideas on what to pack, see our Countdown to the holidays feature.