I hate reinventing the wheel. So, I like to make lists. You know this already. I make the list once and then keep it for future reference. This applies to daily chores, grocery lists, vacations, camping, and, especially day-trips.
Getting ready for a trip of any kind takes so long, why do I want to do the planning work everytime? Keeping a checklist on file, in your planner or on the computer can save you some time and some brain space. Don’t we all need a little more of that?
Here are some ideas to put on your list:
* Bottled water, formula, juice boxes, plastic cups and sippy cups or bottles.
* Non-perishable snacks, such as raisins, crackers, pretzels, and fruit cups.
* Extra clothes for each young child, aged birth to preschool
* A plastic tablecloth, napkins, a roll of paper towels, and plastic utensils if your trip may involve a picnic or fastfood. We have a very cool backpack, like this one, that incorporates much of this including dishes and a cooler compartment.
* First aid kit, emergency ice packs, and flashlight
* Diaper bag ready to go. Don’t forget feminine hygiene products.
* Local map, prepaid phone card and list of important phone numbers. (You never know when your cell phone will die when you most need it.)
* Entertainment for the kids’ duration in the car.
* Camera, sunglasses, and hats.
* A cooler packed with lunch. We like to do this since it saves time and money.
* Stroller or baby carrier.
* Portable booster seat with tray.
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I started doing this last summer, and it was SO helpful! I put a master list in a plastic page protector and use a magnet to hold it on the door to our garage – I quickly run through it before each outing. The thing I always had to run back and get was the camera! This idea worked so well during the summer, that I made a new list for the door in the fall. I was having trouble remembering if I needed swimsuits or gymnastics leotards or book bags or whatever during those first weeks of school and activities!