As a family traveler, you know every trip starts with the same challenge: packing. What will work for everyone? Will we have enough room for all the essentials? And—most importantly—how can we make this journey smoother for the kids and the grown-ups? The Singing Suitcase is here to share our tried-and-true family travel must-haves. While every family is unique, these items are perennial favorites that can simplify your packing routine and make your adventures more enjoyable!
1. Away Luggage: The Perfect Foundation
A reliable suitcase is the cornerstone of any great trip. Away suitcases aren’t just stylish; they’re durable, thoughtfully designed, and come with features like built-in USB charging ports and 360° spinner wheels. For families, the larger sizes are perfect for sharing space efficiently. Pro tip: Pack one family member’s essentials in a carry-on, just in case checked luggage takes a detour.
2. Primary Clothing: Capsule Wardrobe Bliss
Primary’s simple, mix-and-match basics are a packing game-changer. Their soft, durable fabrics and timeless styles make them ideal for creating capsule wardrobes for kids (and even adults). Stick to a consistent color palette to ensure every item works together. Bonus: Fewer outfit changes mean less laundry and less stuff.
3. Joovy Caboose Stroller: Compact & Kid-Approved
The Joovy Caboose stroller is a lifesaver. This lightweight, compact, and versatile stroller accommodates both an infant and a toddler—without taking up all your trunk space. The sit-and-stand design lets older kids hop on and off while you keep younger ones secure. It’s perfect for airports (it fits through baggage security screening equipment), theme parks, or long city walks.
4. Wayb Pico Travel Car Seats: Safety Meets Convenience
For families on the move, the Wayb Pico travel car seat is a game-changer. At just 8 pounds, it folds up small enough to fit in an overhead bin yet meets all safety standards. Whether you’re hopping in an Uber or renting a car at your destination, this seat keeps your little ones safe without the bulk of a traditional car seat.
5. LCD Drawing Tablets: Mess-Free Entertainment
Goodbye, crayons rolling under airplane seats! LCD drawing tablets are the ultimate entertainment for kids on the go. These lightweight devices offer endless creativity without the need for paper or markers. Plus, they’re perfect for doodles, games, or even a quick game of tic-tac-toe while waiting for your next adventure.
6. Folding Toiletry Bags for Toys and Activities
Who says toiletry bags are just for toiletries? Use these foldable, compartmentalized organizers for toys, art supplies, snacks, and other essentials. Hang them up in a hotel room or car seat back for easy access. They’re a brilliant way to keep chaos at bay during long flights or road trips.
Your Top 6 May Vary! – Tailor Your Packing to Your Family
At The Singing Suitcase, we know every family’s needs are different. While these items are a great starting point, your “must-haves” might include a favorite stuffed animal, a portable sound machine, or even a stash of snacks that no one can resist. The key is to find what works for your crew and embrace it with confidence.
So, as you zip up your Away suitcase and double-check your list, remember: the goal isn’t perfection—it’s creating memories. Safe travels, and may your suitcases always sing with the joy of adventure!
What are your favorite family travel must-haves? Share them with us below!
2 Comments
Great article—really helpful tips for packing with kids! I’ve always struggled with organizing our travel gear. The Away luggage section caught my eye, especially with the USB ports. Do you have a preference for which size offers the best balance of space versus portability for flights?
For anyone else planning a trip, this might help: https://world-prices.com. I’m not sure how up-to-date the info is, but it can give a rough guide on costs!
Thanks again for the tips, especially about the Joovy Caboose stroller—it sounds like exactly what we need for our family adventures!
Hi Liesl,
Thanks for your feedback and for reading!
We use the Bigger Carryon Flex so I have the option to check it or not. Though I’ve heard it’s too big for some smaller planes (especially international carriers around Europe). We travel with 2 smaller suitcases usually and that works well for us right now. The biggest I would go is the Medium to be able to pack more in one case. I struggle with the big suitcases (Large size) and keeping the weight down. Here’s a link for $40 off your first purchase with Away if you’re interested! https://referrals.awaytravel.com/away254959
Melissa of The Singing Suitcase