Let’s be honest, when you’re a parent, a family holiday can be a bit of a misnomer. You may have swapped the daily grind for an infinity pool and the school run for a beach stroll. But let’s not fool ourselves; you’re still wrangling mini, wilder versions of yourself just in a different place. And while travel can be a great educator, it can also be a masterclass in patience. Meet our own Brooke McRae, proud mumma to Josie and Amy and survivor of many a family holiday. Here’s what’s in her carry-on.
The bag/chariot
“I always opt for a durable carry-on bag that’s easy to manoeuvre,” she says. Durable is the keyword here. Because let’s face it, that bag is not just a bag. It’s a chariot, a seat, a cubby house… It will be jumped on, sat on, dropped and scratched. And that’s just at the airport.
Food, glorious food
There’s a reason why kids are cute. They’re a fickle race, prone to very suddenly hating the food they loved just two hours ago. Getting them to try, let alone like food that may vary wildly from what they know is sometimes just not worth the struggle. Throw in changed time zones and airplane food and the potential for disaster is high. That’s why your carry-on needs to be a well-stocked arsenal of snacks and treats to keep those little tummies happy and those tempers in check.
“Healthy snacks are a must,” Brooke says. She packs a variety of snacks to keep her kids satisfied and to prevent hunger-induced meltdowns.
Here are some of Brooke’s favourite snack choices:
Salty snacks: Carrot and celery sticks with a small container of hummus or crackers and cheese are filling and provide a good mix of protein and carbohydrates. “They keep my kids full and are easy to handle,” Brooke says.
Something sweet: Pre-cut apple slices, grapes, or dried fruit are easy to pack and eat.
“And don’t forget to pack water bottles,” Brooke adds.
Distractions
Brooke keeps her kids entertained with a mix of activities.
“I always pack the Treehouse activity books and pencils,” says Brooke. “They’re not only great for the plane journey, but I also take them to meals.”
If she’s bringing screens for the girls, she makes sure to download their favourite shows and games before getting to the airport.
Toys
The novelty of new small toys, books or games can be worth the investment, says Brooke. “Just buy them in Kmart rather than at the airport and don’t give them out all at once. Ration them!”
But the old stuff is important too. Sometimes the familiarity of an old toy can help kids feel comfortable in a foreign environment. “But don’t bring anything irreplaceable,” Brooke warns.
Just in case
There’s no need to have a stash of emergency clothes or medication…until there is. If there’s an outift to drench or toe to stub, kids have a knack for doing it.
“I pack a change of clothes for each child in case of spills or accidents,” Brooke says, adding that she opts for comfortable, easy-to-remove layers that can adapt to changing temperatures.
Mums are also usually a repository for wipes and tissues and this doesn’t change when on holiday. Add to this some basic first aid supplies and you’re set. Brooke usually has a stash of band aids, antiseptic, burn gel and kids Panadol packed too.
Sunscreen and lip balm are also at the ready. Just in case.
Brooke’s top packing tips
Cruise with the kids
Brooke and her family obviously share a passion for cruising because “it’s an easy holiday with kids,” she says.
“You don’t realise how much you appreciate only having to unpack once and not have to lug a suitcase around. And the kids clubs are next level which means the kids are happy and the grown-ups can actually be grown-ups.”
Plan ahead
“Make a list of everything you need to pack and check it twice,” she suggests. “This helps avoid last-minute panic.” Plus, you have a perfect checklist for what is supposed to be coming home with you (RIP my favourite hairbrush bought in Canada, left in Fiji).
Involve the kids
Engage your children in the packing process. Let them choose a few items to bring, which can make them feel more involved and excited about the trip. “Kids love having a say in what they pack,” says Brooke. “It gives them a sense of control and anticipation.” And heaven forbid you pack the wrong swimmers!
Utilise every inch
“Use the space inside your shoes for socks or small items,” Brooke says.
Keep essentials accessible
“Pack items you’ll need during the flight in an easily accessible part of your bag,” she recommends. “You don’t want to be rummaging through your bag mid-flight.”
Be ready for the unexpected
Travelling with kids means being prepared for anything. Pack a few plastic bags for dirty clothes or unexpected messes.
Stay positive and flexible
Despite all the planning, things can still go awry. Maintain a positive attitude and be flexible. Kids take their cues from you — if you stay calm and upbeat, they’re more likely to do the same.
Go through all our luggage:
The eco-conscious Gaya Avery, Karryon, Features Editor
The minimalist, Mark Harada, Karryon, Editor
The luxury queen, Kat Holden, Karryon Editorial Director, Luxury
