What NOT to Pack for Long-Term Travel with Kids (Our Biggest Packing Mistakes)
aka: The stuff we thought we needed… until we didn’t.
The Things You Learn Once You’re Actually on the Road
We spent weeks obsessing over packing lists, gear reviews, and weighing our backpacks with military precision. We thought we had nailed it.
Spoiler: we didn’t.
Here’s a brutally honest breakdown of what we packed for long-term family travel and quickly realised we didn’t need. Plus the stuff we wish we’d brought from day one. This isn’t a “here’s the perfect list” post. It’s the real-life edit that comes after living out of a bag with kids for weeks on end.
Stuff We Packed and Regretted Almost Immediately
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1. Too Many Clothes
We packed for 7–10 days of outfits… and ended up rotating the same 3.
Why it didn’t work: Laundry was easier and cheaper than expected. And we just didn’t need as much variety.
What we’d change: Focus on layering, neutral tones, and fast-drying fabrics. Skip the “just in case” extras. Yes you’re not going to dressed for a fasion catwalk.
2. Bulky Toys
We wanted the kids to feel at home, so we let them each pack a few “comfort items.” That quickly turned into a bag of plastic chaos.
Why it didn’t work: They played with 2 things. The rest stayed stuffed in a cube.
What we’d change: A mini Lego set + one card game is plenty. Nature, parks, and hostels do the rest.
3. Big First Aid Kit
We love being prepared but we had enough meds to open a pharmacy.
Why it didn’t work: Most things are easy to buy locally, often cheaper.
What we’d change: A small kit with basics (pain relief, rehydration, plasters, anti-itch). That’s it.
4. Extra Shoes
We packed sandals, sneakers, water shoes, and slip-ons. That’s… 4 pairs per person. Why??
Why it didn’t work: We live in the same 1–2 pairs every day.
What we’d change: One versatile pair of sneakers + one pair of flip-flops or sandals. Done.
5. Extra Travel Gadgets
Foldable bowls, sporks, solar lights, inflatable pillows… great in theory. In reality? Mostly unused.
Why it didn’t work: We ended up simplifying our routines or borrowing what we needed.
What we’d change: Only pack what you already use at home.
What We Wish We’d Packed Instead
1. Better Rain Gear
We skimped here, thinking we could “just avoid rain.” Cue: tropical downpours and soaked everything.
Next time: lightweight, breathable ponchos for all. Quick-dry wins.
2. A Dedicated Dirty Laundry System
We had a stuff sack. It stank. That’s it.
Next time: foldable laundry cube or zip bag with ventilation.
3. More Wet Wipes and Ziplocks
Sounds silly. But with kids, they’re life savers especially in places with no bins or running water.
Next time: always stocked, always accessible.
What We’ve Adjusted On the Road
Even before takeoff, we’ve been testing and tweaking our packing list:
Cut out a hoodie each (realised we just won’t need that many layers) even though I like a hood, being 6’3 it ends up being a bulky item.
Removed extra charging cables one per device is enough
Took out a few kid clothes that looked cute but just never fit right
Swapped heavy books for Kindle versions (the kids weren’t thrilled… until they saw the games)
And already? Our bags feel lighter. And so do our brains.
Final Thoughts
Packing mistakes are inevitable, but that’s how you learn.
If you’re about to head off on a big trip, our advice?
Pack 20% less than you think you need. Bring the basics. Let the road teach you the rest.
You can always buy extra when in the country.
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📌 Want a printable editable packing list? Grab it below.
