The excitement of packing a suitcase for a vacation is familiar to all parents. And that’s just one item on a long list: the suitcase must contain clothes suitable for all weather conditions and occasions. Then there are the things that a toddler must have to cope with the stress of a vacation, such as a pacifier, diapers, pajamas and a whole host of other “essentials” that must not be left out of a vacation suitcase under any circumstances. In addition, it is important to double-check that the accommodation you have booked is suitable for families with young children. In this case, you should keep in mind the rental of a travel crib for the baby. As if that weren’t enough, you should also remember to bring a first-aid kit with the appropriate medications and travel documents, which must be complete and, most importantly, valid on the day of departure. Sound serious? It certainly does, but don’t let that discourage you. Instead, take a look at our list of items to pack to help parents like you with the vacation planning process. You can also learn how to stay in control and prevent packing frenzy by reading our guide and learning how to create a thoughtful plan. And most importantly, make sure you don’t leave anything behind and start your journey being extremely well prepared.
What to pack for a lake vacation? Travel with your family by staying organized.
Always remember to pack the children’s clothes and other necessary accessories keeping the rule that the most important things stay on top “at hand”. When you find that surprising situations have occurred on the road, you won’t have to worry so much if you apply the “golden rules.”
Baby stroller, portable crib and travel crib…. or maybe not?
If you are going on a trip by car, taking a stroller or portable crib is not a problem at all, because there is always room in the trunk. The same is true during a camper or caravan. Strollers and portable baby cribs can easily be placed in the trunk and the problem is solved. However, you should ask in advance at the place where you will be staying for the night in cottages for rent in Masuria, whether it is at all necessary to take extra ballast with you (and there is no denying that you need to take all the “instrumentarium” for the child). When families book accommodations, many rental houses and apartments have cribs available for their infants and toddlers. These accommodations cater to families with children. Often local companies offer to rent strollers and baby strollers for an additional fee. Another issue is the topic of food.
It is well known that children are reluctant to try new things when it comes to food.
In case you are not sure if you will be able to purchase your child’s preferred jar at your destination, make sure you leave enough space in your luggage for meals.
When doing so, make sure that items stored in glass containers are properly protected. This will reduce the likelihood of unpleasant surprises. In addition, you should pack some plastic plates, cups, bottles and bibs in your suitcase. It is a good idea to buy disposable bibs in case there is no laundry on site.
How can you protect yourself from the summer sun?
Because infants’ skin has far fewer sweat glands than adult skin and produces less pigment, it is more susceptible to the harmful effects of sun exposure. Therefore, be sure to wear appropriate headgear such as a hat or baseball cap with a neck protector to the lake beach. If you are going to engage in children’s activities that involve the lake, you should apply sunscreen that is waterproof and has a high sun protection factor (at least SPF 50). Also, after playing in the water, it’s a good idea to apply a soothing after-sun lotion that contains panthenol. However, creams are not everything. Having the right attire is also an important factor. Dress in loose and breathable clothes. Many of them already have built-in anti-UV protection, which is created by using a dense weave of fibers and impregnants.
It’s a good idea to get a sun visor and attach it to the windshield of the car where the child will be sitting if you will be traveling by car. This will provide an extra layer of defense against the sun’s potentially dangerous UVA rays, which are able to penetrate the glass.
In the case of vacations with children, what items can be packed in hand luggage?
It is recommended that you always have the most essential items on hand, but this is especially important when you arrive at your destination. For this reason, pack your carry-on luggage carefully and always be ready for the unexpected.
Checklist of items that should be included in a parent’s carry-on luggage
Stow all travel documents in a safe place, but do it so that you can access them quickly and easily if needed.
Documents required for travel are:
- child’s health book and PESEL
- health insurance card
- confirmation of the reservation of accommodation in cottages or apartments
Wallet, cell phone and apartment keys can be safely stored in carry-on luggage. In addition, it’s a good idea to include the most necessary medications, tissues, “just in case” cookies, fruit and enough drinks. While traveling, you may find that you need a hairbrush, refreshing wipes or deodorant.
Hand luggage of a baby before a trip to a lake for the night
When traveling with a young child, always be prepared with all the essentials, including a diaper bag and, of course, the diapers themselves, wet wipes, irritation ointment, a changing mat and a supply of disposable bags. What absolutely must not be missing under any circumstances? Of course, the baby will need a pacifier, bib, plastic spoon, bottle and some food. Your baby will find it easier to fall asleep in a new environment if he has a favorite cuddly toy with him. Your child will be protected from drafts and cold if he has a scarf around his neck and a pair of warm socks on his feet. If we bring an extra set of baby clothes with us, we won’t have to worry about the mess that so often dampens our mood when we travel. We recommend bringing an extra T-shirt for each parent, in case there is an “accident” while feeding the baby.
Taking a baby blanket with you will prove to be an invaluable asset, during naps in the car and overnight stays at a Masurian lake.
A carry-on bag for traveling with a preschool-aged child.
In many respects, the list of things for a trip for preschoolers is not significantly different from that for toddlers. Unlike toddlers, however, children of several years require activity. Therefore, make sure to bring picture books, a player of the toddler’s favorite songs and audiobooks, headphones, coloring books and crayons. A child’s backpack will always have room for things like soda bottles, a teddy bear or a pillow.
Hand luggage traveling with school-age children
Older children do not require as much attention as younger children and are able to take care of themselves for longer. What should they have in a carry-on backpack? Painting utensils, crayons and a pad, as well as puzzle notebooks, books and radio dramas. Our recommendation is to let go of an audiobook with a story that has not been heard before and is completely new. The use of educational cards is another fantastic option. It’s a good idea to have a ball with you so that you can kick or bounce it when you stop.
When traveling with your family, the most important thing is to enjoy your moments together with a clear conscience. Therefore, before you leave, you should consider what you absolutely must take with you and what you can leave behind. It is in your best interest to start planning your trip together as early as possible. This will allow you to calmly resolve any doubts that may arise.
Check to see what amenities and activities for children our apartments and cottages for rent on the lake have, and then book your dream vacation with us. Start your journey into the unknown without fear.
