by Sabrina Garibian posted in Products & Prizes

I've never been on a family vacation and wished I had packed something else or more. The trick with packing for family travel is to pack light, pack smart, and pack ahead. I might take it to the next level, as we aren't traveling for a few weeks, yet my kids' suitcase is already packed. It's overkill but I'm glad it's done!
If you learn anything from my experience traveling with my young family, it's this: Nothing beats having a few comforts from home, and at the same time you'll never wish you brought 12 t-shirts instead of 4.
Will any of these must-haves make or break your trip" No, but they sure are nice to have. Here are my top picks for family travel must-haves:
7. Babiators (Babiators, $20-45)
I had no idea this would be a thing, but apparently it's a thing. My kids get really crabby when they have to squint in the sun, and not just any sunglasses will do. My daughter especially insists on wearing her Babiators at any chance she can. They are practical and offer great sun protection, but I think my kids love them most because they feel cool in them.
6. Skip Hop Grab and Go Wet/Dry Bag (Amazon, $14.99)

The first thing I grab when I'm getting ready to pack is my wet bag. I use them to carry pajamas when we know we will be out late on vacation, to hold dirty clothes while we travel, and to keep wet swimsuits from getting the rest of my bag wet.
Read more: Why you need a wet bag and what to do with it
5. Thermos FU...