For the globetrotting family, the adventure begins long before you reach your destination—it starts on the plane. Making that part of the journey smooth and enjoyable is key to starting your adventure on the right foot. This checklist covers the six essential items that seasoned family globetrotters pack to ensure their journeys are as exciting as their destinations.
First on the checklist: a portable pantry. Adventurers need fuel. A well-stocked snack bag with a mix of energy-boosting and comforting foods is essential. Reusable water bottles are crucial for staying hydrated as you cross different time zones and climates, keeping your explorers in top condition.
Second: the entertainment expedition kit. A long journey requires a plan for navigating the vast plains of boredom. This kit should include a digital guide (a tablet with movies), along with traditional tools like a compass (a book), a map (a coloring book), and other small treasures (toys) to keep the expedition interesting.
Third: the comfort base camp. Every adventurer needs a comfortable base camp to rest and recharge. Create one on your plane seat with a warm sleeping bag (a blanket), a pillow, and a spare set of expedition clothes for any unexpected weather (spills).
Fourth: the field medic pack. Minor injuries are a part of any adventure. A compact first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers is a must-have for any globetrotting parent.
Fifth and sixth: your expedition credentials and power supply. Keep your travel permits (passports and tickets) in a secure, waterproof pouch. And ensure your modern exploration tools (phones and tablets) stay powered up with a reliable portable power bank, your personal generator in the wild.
Pack a travel journal and a few glue sticks for each child. They can use it to draw pictures of what they see, write down their thoughts, and paste in ticket stubs, postcards, and other small mementos from the trip. It’s a wonderfully engaging activity and creates a fantastic souvenir.