Fun Fact: The first time we went on a family vacation after having our first kid I literally forgot to pack clothes for myself. I had packed everything my son could ever need. The kid was ready for multiple outfit changes per day. Full on toddler fashion show. We got all the way to the beach house that we rented with my family when I realized my mistake. (Minus 2 bathing suits, a pair of pajamas and a pair of shorts. No tops, but shorts, everything else was still laying on my bed at home.) Luckily, we were there with my mom and sister who shared their clothes with me. And it led to the moment I fell in love with Lands’ End dresses but that is not the point!
Since that trip I have become way more organized in general. And, definitely more organized when it comes to packing and planning. As I tend to overthink things I figured it might be good to put some of that overthinking to use! Now when we go away there is a spreadsheet, a packing list, a checklist, and most importantly I make sure to pack my stuff first.
We just did a over night trip to Sesame Place to celebrate my daughters birthday. We were so excited. ( Mostly because we haven’t been anywhere in over a year.) And of course I want everything to be perfect and amazing. So, I got to planning! Normally when we go on a trip I have a spreadsheet I use but, because it was just an overnight trip I made a printable to use for my packing list which, you can download here!
The packing list worked out great. I always try to pack by outfit. (How many outfits you need based on how many days your vacation is.) This way I don’t over pack and I can make sure everyone has everything they need for each day. I also like to make sure our outfits go together. But, that’s just a me thing not like an organization thing and yes, I know it sounds insane.
Besides packing and planning outfits here are some other things I do to get us ready for a trip.
First, clean out the inside of the car. That way there is less chaos and confusion and I can make sure we are prepared with everything we need. (Wipes, sanitizer, things to keep the kids busy, etc.)
Before 
After 
$1 store organizer!
Once the car is cleaned out I clean out and repack the diaper bag.
When we do a trip like this I like to do some things that make it extra special. Fun snacks for the hotel, matching on theme pajamas for the kids, on theme paper products to use for our pizza party. Listen, I didn’t choose the extra life, the extra life chose me ok!
We had such a good time! The kids loved it. We found out our 3 year old has no fear when it comes to rides but is terrified that a character will sneak up on her at any given moment. ( I have never seen someone look over their shoulder so many times while watching an Elmo and Friends performance.) We also discovered that our kids will live off popcorn and pretzels if given the option.
I can’t wait till our next adventure!
If you want to see more about our trip to Sesame Place make sure to follow me on Instagram!
