*This article was originally published in 2019, and updated December 2024.
Ahh, the “joy” of holiday travel. The time of year when we magically try to pack winter clothing, toiletries, ALL the “necessities” for traveling with little ones, snacks, AND gifts into our luggage! If your family is like ours when I say “we pack,” I really mean “mom packs.” I dearly love my husband, and he helps me SO much around the house; however, when I’m up late packing before a trip, he’s typically been peacefully sleeping for at least an hour or two.
Don’t worry, Mommas. If you’re headed to Grandma’s house this Christmas, I’ve got a few tips to help you “lighten your load.”
Packing Tips for Holiday Travel
- Ship Gifts
If you’re exchanging gifts during your trip . . . and you enjoy shopping online (thank you Amazon Prime), consider shipping the gifts to your destination. This will save SO much room in your car/suitcase AND you’ll be less likely to leave a gift behind. Don’t forget to throw some cute wrapping paper and supplies either with your gifts or pack some to take along so you can wrap the gifts once you arrive.
*Keep in mind that if you are flying with gifts, it’s best not to wrap them ahead of time. TSA officers may have to unwrap gifts during security inspection if they have any concerns. If you’re flying, here’s a helpful link with some holiday travel tips from TSA.
- Compressible Jackets
If you’re traveling to a cold climate, pack (or wear) an ultra-light compressible jacket that can fold into its own bag. These are SUPER convenient for travel and actually are really warm.
- Capsule Wardrobe
I understand you NEED 10 outfits for your five-day trip “just in case.” However, try to think “capsule wardrobe” when packing. Pack items that can be worn together in multiple ways to save space in your luggage.
- Roll Clothes
Don’t underestimate the space-saving method of tightly rolling your clothes into your suitcase. Roll your kids’ complete outfits into the largest piece of clothing (socks, underwear, shirt, and pants/skirt) so that when they (or you) grab an item to get dressed, everything needed is there.
- Wear Bulky Items
If you’re flying for the holidays, don’t pack your largest wearable item, wear them. Traveling to a destination with lots of snow? Wear those bulky snow boots or thick sweater on the plane to save space in your suitcase. You can always layer your clothes and that cozy sweater makes a great travel “pillow.”
- Go Through Purse
Clean out your purse prior to leaving. If you’re traveling away from home, you can likely leave all those local coupons and discount cards at home. I always switch out to a wallet purse when traveling that only contains my necessities.
I hope your family has a safe and happy Holiday Travel Season! Be sure to check these great tips to bounce back from holiday travel.
