10 Tips on How to Pack Light (Starting with Socks)

Summer is finally here! Whether you’re headed to Disney or finally booking that European cruise, getting packed can be the most stressful part especially when you have little ones. To help you avoid the symphony of "I can't carry this!" before the fun begins, we’ve put together this list of ten helpful packing tips for traveling light with kids.

1. Go Sockless with FLAT SOCKS®

If you and your kids are all about going sockless in the summer heat or rocking shoes like HeyDude™ shoes and Crocs™, FLAT SOCKS are the best socks for summer. These cushioned inserts keep feet dry, fresh and comfy with moisture-wicking and odor control tech.

“If your travel plans include a day at Disney, walking 30,000 steps in a new-to-you city, or people-mover-ing a mile from airport security to your terminal, these bad boys will come in handy,” one Buzzfeed reviewer said.

Now your kids can kick up their bare feet without clearing the hotel room or canceling out the car air freshener. Easy to pack and machine washable, see why FLAT SOCKS Kids and FLAT SOCKS for teens and adults should be at the top of your packing list.

For more tips on traveling with kids plus what to pack, read our Family Travel Tips for Summer.

2. Downsize Your Shoes

Shoes can be the bulkiest items to pack. Instead of bringing a pair for every occasion, stick to two versatile options: one for walking and the other for special events. Wear your comfy slip-ons or sneakers on the way there, then stash your loafers or sandals in your pack.

Blisters can be miserable on a trip, so make sure your kid’s shoes are good and broken in. If you're struggling with how to pack shoes in your suitcase, place them side-by-side at the bottom with heels touching toes just like how they sit in a shoebox.

P.S. Stuffing your shoes with socks to make extra room in your suitcase? Save space by keeping a pair of FLAT SOCKS in your shoes instead.

3. Mix and Match Outfits

It’s easy to overdo it when trying to pack the right amount of clothes for a trip. Kids especially can overpack when they have so many favorite T-shirts or accessories. Ask them to narrow it down to what's comfiest and focus on how you can mix and match different outfits.

Thankfully, younger children often don’t care if their clothes match. Older kids, on the other hand, can learn how to make do with less. As for those “just in case” items like rain jackets or hoodies, consider your itinerary and the weather forecast to decide if they’re necessary.

4. Do Laundry

Bringing less clothes when you know just how messy your kids can be sounds like a recipe for disaster. If you’re staying anywhere for more than five days, though, you’ll have to do laundry.

Washing clothes and re-wearing outfits is the best way to pack less and worry less. Save even more space with wash strips, an eco-friendly alternative to liquid laundry detergent.

5. Keep it Simple & Sensory-Safe

For some kids, all the hustle and bustle of new experiences on vacation is overwhelming. Therefore, now is not the time to test out that frilly new bathing suit from grandma or that new pair of swishy shorts. Sensitive children feel happiest in the clothes they’re used to.

Pack their most comfortable and appropriate clothes that fit well. That goes for their socks and shoes, too. Some kids hate wearing socks, making FLAT SOCKS Kids a seamless alternative that can save you time and stress when getting ready for the day ahead.

6. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great travel hack for parents because they let you fit more items in your bag while still keeping things organized. They’re great for clothing because they compress down to become smaller.

If you’re planning on flying to your destination, using packing cubes is a smart way to combine you and your kid’s belongings. This cuts back on luggage fees and time spent checking your bags.

7. Roll, Don’t Fold

While you might be used to packing your clothes flat and folded, rolling them is a better way to save space. You can put entire outfits together and roll them into one, making it easier to find what you need. The rolling method is more convenient than trying to pile everything together, and it can help prevent wrinkles.

8. Limit Electronics & Toys

Tablets are made of pure magic when it comes to resolving tantrums. If you want your kid to have a good time without being glued to a screen, keep strict limits on all electronics. Ideally, they’ll be more excited about the things you do on the trip, anyway. Still, tablets are space-saving entertainment devices compared to traditional toys.

9. Buy on Arrival

Stuffing your suitcase with toiletries and diapers before a trip doesn’t actually save you much money. Chances are, wherever you’re going, you’ll be able to buy those things at the local supermarket for little more than what they cost at home.

Of course, always use discretion based on your destination and your child’s age and needs. For example, if you have an infant who needs a highly specific formula, you’ll need to plan ahead and see whether any stores nearby carry it.

10. Give Your Child A Say

Older children should always have a say in what they wear or bring on a trip. Certain items can make or break their mood. Plus, involving them in the packing process teaches responsibility and encourages independence. Let your child pack their own suitcase, then use gentle guidance when reviewing what they’ve packed.

Taking a staycation instead? Check out these 18 Fun Summer Activities for Families on a Budget.

Travel Light, Tread Lighter with FLAT SOCKS

Packing light for a family vacation doesn't to be a struggle. Smart swaps like versatile shoes and mix-and-match outfits can help save space and stress. For the ultimate comfort this summer, try FLAT SOCKS for you and your kids and make packing a breeze.