The Ultimate Pre-Vacation Checklist: Family Travel Prep Made Easy
You’ve fastened your seatbelt and waved goodbye to the house. The day you’ve been waiting for is finally here—vacation time! The kids are bouncing in their seats with excitement, but then it hits you: Did I lock the back door? Did we pack the toothbrushes? Your heart sinks as you mentally run through all the things you might have forgotten. But there’s no time to double-check now—you’ve got a flight to catch!
Sound familiar? As parents, our minds are wired to worry. We juggle a million things in the lead-up to a family vacation, and it’s almost inevitable that something slips through the cracks. The last thing you want is for that nagging feeling to follow you on the trip you’ve worked so hard to plan.
That’s where a pre-vacation checklist comes in. I used to struggle with those last-minute doubts and “too-late-to-fix-it” worries, too—until I started using a detailed checklist well before departure day. Trust me, it works. With everything organized and accounted for, you can finally relax in the airport taxi, breathe a sigh of relief, and truly switch off, knowing you’ve got it all sorted.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to do in the lead-up to your upcoming family vacation. As you read through, add the relevant points to your own pre-vacation checklist. (You could even turn it into a family project where age-appropriate tasks can be delegated!)
The Ultimate Pre-Vacation Checklist for Family Travel
Without further ado, let’s dive into what you came here for: the ultimate pre-family-vacation checklist. To make things as easy as possible, I’ve broken it down into manageable stages, each tied to a timeline leading up to your family holiday:
- 6+ months before departure
- 1-6 months before departure
- 2 weeks before departure
- 1 week before departure
- 2-3 days before departure
- On the big travel day
This step-by-step approach will help you stay organized and ensure nothing slips through the cracks. And if you’re reading this with less than 6 months to go—don’t panic! I’ve been there too (hello, last-minute planning!). Just work your way through all the lists, jot down what needs to be done, and tackle it right away.
Pro tip: Bookmark this article or save it to your vacation Pinterest board so you can easily come back to it as your trip approaches. Trust me, future-you will thank you!
6+ Months Before Departure (Family Focus: Big Picture Planning)
Planning a family vacation is no small feat, but starting early can make all the difference. Here’s what to tackle six months (or more) before your trip:
- Lock in travel dates: Find dates that work for everyone’s schedules—think school breaks, work commitments, and extracurricular activities. Once you’ve settled on the perfect window, confirm with all family members and anyone else joining your trip.
- Request time off: Put in your time-off requests at work, and consider adding an extra day or two either side. Trust me, you’ll appreciate having that time to pack, unpack, and recover as a family.
- Check passport expiration dates: Gather everyone’s passports (yes, even the kids!) and double-check the expiration dates. Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, so renew them now if needed.
- Look into immunizations: If you’re traveling internationally, check if any vaccinations are required or recommended for your destination. Some countries may ask for proof of vaccination, so schedule appointments early to avoid last-minute stress. The Fit For Travel Website is a great resource for finding out which immunizations are required or recommended.
- Apply for travel visas: If your destination requires visas, start the application process for the entire family as soon as possible. Some visas can take weeks or even months to process, so don’t delay!
By checking off these tasks early, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, stress-free planning process. Plus, you’ll have one less thing to worry about as your trip gets closer!
1-6 Months Before Departure (Family Focus: Booking and Logistics)
Now that the big-picture items are out of the way, it’s time to get to the fun part—booking and planning! This phase involves quite a bit of detail, which is why I recommend tackling it over the 5 months leading up to your trip. Here’s what to focus on:
Budget and Savings
- Set a family trip budget: Determine how much you’re comfortable spending and make sure it aligns with your overall financial plan. Consider creative ways to save, like a family travel savings jar or letting the kids earn extra money for the trip through small chores.
- Hunt for deals: Look up family travel discounts, mileage points, and coupons before booking anything. Every little bit helps!
Itinerary and Activities
- Outline a family-friendly itinerary: Ask the kids for input on activities they’d enjoy. Once you’ve drafted your itinerary, share it with trusted friends or family for feedback—and safety.
- Reserve activities and tours: Look for child-friendly options and book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. For the greatest range of travel experiences, we recommend checking out Viator and Get Your Guide.
Travel and Transport
- Book travel tickets and reservations:
- – Flights: Secure plane tickets for the whole family. We usually find the cheapest flights on Skyscanner.
- – Other transportation: Reserve train or ferry tickets (don’t forget to check for family discounts!).
- – Ground transportation: Arrange car rentals (do you need car seats?), private transfers, or light rail passes.
- – Parking: Book airport or long-term parking if needed.
- Plan airport logistics: Organize transportation to and from the airport, keeping luggage and little ones in mind. We have found the airport taxis that we’ve arranged through Booking.com to be competitively priced and reliable.
Accommodation
- Choose family-friendly accommodations: Whether it’s a hotel with a kids’ club, a spacious vacation rental, or a cozy campsite, book early and save your confirmation details. Our favorite sites for finding the best accommodation deals are AirBnB, Booking.com, and VRBO.
Health and Safety
- Consider travel insurance: Research and purchase a policy that covers the whole family’s needs. (Coming from a mum who has spent time in an overseas hospital with her kids – it’s an absolute must-have!)
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): If you’re a U.S. citizen, sign up the whole family through the U.S. Department of State for safety updates and assistance while abroad.
Pet Care
- Find a reliable pet or house sitter: Book early, especially during school holidays. If you would like to find someone to look after your pets in your home, consider creating an account with TrustedHouseSitters.
- Prepare detailed care instructions: Include food, routines, and emergency contacts for your pets.
Two Weeks Before Departure (Family Focus: Preparing to Pack)
With your trip just around the corner, it’s time to focus on what you’ll need to complete the packing. Here’s what to tackle:
- Check everyone’s luggage: Make sure all suitcases are in good working order. If needed, order new luggage (kid-sized suitcases are a game-changer for little travelers!).
- Create a detailed family packing list: If you don’t want to start from scratch, download our free packing list. Use it digitally or as a printable—whatever works best for you!
- Purchase travel essentials: Stock up on travel-sized toiletries, kid-friendly snacks, portable games, and any other items your family might need.
- Review TSA regulations: Check the rules for family travel (liquids, car seats, strollers) at both your departure and arrival locations to avoid surprises at the airport.
- Attach tags with contact information to all checked bags for extra security. For even more peace of mind, we take it a step further by adding a Tile Bluetooth Tracker to each bag. If your luggage ever goes missing, you’ll have a much better chance of tracking it down quickly.
- Break in new travel shoes: Have everyone (especially the kids!) start wearing their new shoes around the house to prevent blisters during your trip.
- Place a stop order on mail and newspapers: Contact your post office and newspaper service to pause deliveries while you’re away.
- Create a souvenir list: Make a list of people you’d like to bring souvenirs for—it’ll save you time and stress during your trip.
- Notify work and school:
- – Remind your co-workers and supervisors about your upcoming vacation and make necessary arrangements.
- – If you’re traveling during school time, let your kids’ school know about their absence and ask for any homework or assignments they’ll need to complete.
- Secure pet care: Confirm arrangements with your animal sitter or walker and provide them with detailed care instructions.
One Week Before Departure (Family Focus: Final Preparations and Delegation)
The countdown is on! With just one week to go, it’s time to tie up loose ends. Here’s your checklist for the final stretch:
Money and Staying Connected
- Give your bank a heads-up: Let them know you’ll be traveling so they don’t freeze your cards while you’re away.
- Take out cash: Withdraw local currency (including small bills) and any foreign currency you might need.
- Check your phone plan: If you’re heading abroad, make sure you’ve got international calling or data sorted out.
Home and Pet Prep
- Share your plans with a trusted friend or family member: Give them a spare key and your itinerary, just in case.
- Secure your home:
- – Do a quick yard check and stash away any outdoor items.
- – Pause regular deliveries like milk, coffee, or meal kits.
- Prepare for your return:
- – Make at least one freezer meal for an easy dinner after your trip.
- – Tackle that mountain of laundry (especially the kids’ clothes!) and give the house a quick tidy.
- Sort out pet care supplies:
- – Stock up on extra pet food if needed.
- – Don’t forget a little thank-you gift or payment for your pet sitter.
Work and Schedule
- Delegate: Hand off tasks and responsibilities to colleagues and reschedule any meetings or appointments.
- Get ahead on your workload: Tackle as much as possible before you leave to minimize stress while you’re away.
Family and Travel Logistics
- Finalize your itinerary: Lock in meal ideas, activities, and backup options (because, let’s face it, things don’t always go as planned).
- Pause the kids’ activities: Let coaches or instructors know you’ll be away and reschedule lessons if needed.
- Refill prescriptions: Make sure everyone’s meds are topped up for the trip, plus a little extra just in case.
- Download travel apps: Download apps for maps, entertainment, translation, and airline updates—they’ll make your life so much easier.
Snacks and Entertainment
- Stock up on snacks: Grab a stash of kid-friendly snacks to keep everyone happy during travel.
2-3 Days Before Departure (Family Focus: Packing and Last-Minute Errands)
With just a couple of days to go, it’s time to tackle packing and those last-minute errands.
Packing
- Check the weather: Take a quick peek at the forecast for your destination to finalize what to pack.
- Pack everyone’s bags:
- – Involve older kids in packing their own clothes using the list—it’s a great way to teach responsibility!
- – Consider using packing cubes to stay organized (and avoid overpacking—trust me, you won’t need half of what you think!). We swear by these ECOHUB packing cubes, you can read our review here.
- Make a last-minute items list: Jot down things you can’t pack yet, like toothbrushes, phone chargers, and snacks.
- Weigh your bags: Double-check that everyone’s luggage meets airline weight limits to avoid surprise fees.
Travel Documents and Tech
- Make copies of important documents: Photocopy passports, debit/credit cards, and travel itineraries. Keep digital copies securely stored, too.
- Confirm reservations: Double-check all bookings—flights, accommodations, activities—to make sure everything’s set.
- Download entertainment: Load up tablets or phones with eBooks, movies, shows, and games to keep the kids (and yourself!) entertained during the journey.
- Charge all devices: Power up phones, tablets, portable chargers, and cameras so they’re ready to go.
- Update apps and software: Make sure all your devices are running the latest versions to avoid glitches while traveling.
Home and Car Prep
- Give the house a quick clean: Coming home to a tidy space is the best feeling.
- Grocery shop for essentials: Pick up non-perishable items like cereal, pasta, or snacks for your return.
- Prep your car:
- – Fill up the gas tank if you’re driving to the airport or heading out on a road trip.
- – Get any necessary maintenance done to avoid surprises on the road.
Final Travel Logistics
- Check in for your flight: Save time at the airport by checking in online and downloading boarding passes.
- Complete pre-trip documents: Fill out any required travel forms or health declarations ahead of time.
Ease Back into Routine
- Create a “Getting Back to Routine” list: Jot down a few tasks to help your family transition smoothly after vacation (e.g., unpacking, laundry, school prep).
One Day Before Departure (Family Focus: Final Checks)
It’s almost go-time! With just one day left, it’s all about those final checks and preparations to make sure you can leave with peace of mind. Here’s your last-minute checklist:
Travel Essentials
- Print and save boarding passes: Print copies for everyone (and keep backups!) while also saving electronic versions on your phone.
- Review your travel itinerary: Double-check flight times, transportation details, and activity schedules. Set alarms for wake-up, departure, and gate arrival so you stay on track.
Home and Pet Prep
- Touch base with your house or pet sitter: Confirm arrangements one last time and provide any final instructions.
- Water the plants: Give them a good drink and set up self-watering systems if needed. Leave clear care instructions for your plant sitter.
- Wrap up pet tasks: Complete any last-minute pet care chores or drop off your furry friends if necessary.
Home Security and Maintenance
- Declutter and tidy up: Do a quick sweep of the house to make sure it’s clean and clutter-free for your return.
- Set vacation light timers: Make your home look lived-in by setting timers for lights or TVs.
- Close blinds and curtains: Keep your home secure and private while you’re away.
- Adjust the thermostat: Set it to an energy-efficient temperature to save on utilities.
- Consider turning off the water supply: If you’re going to be away for a while, this can prevent potential leaks.
Kitchen and Trash
- Empty the fridge and trash: Toss any perishables and take out the garbage to avoid coming home to unpleasant smells.
- Run the dishwasher: Make sure it’s empty and clean before you leave.
- Arrange for trash/recycling pick-up: If you’ll be away on collection day, ask a neighbor to help or reschedule if possible.
Work and Communication
- Set up an automated email response: Let people know you’re away and when they can expect a reply.
On Travel Day (Family Focus: Smooth Departure)
Congratulations, travel day is finally here! Just a few more things to do for a stress-free departure:
Final Packing and Essentials
- Pack last-minute items: Don’t forget those toothbrushes, phone chargers, and any other essentials you couldn’t pack earlier.
- Double-check everyone’s must-haves: Make sure each family member has their phone, keys, wallet, passport, tickets, medications, and comfort items (especially for the kids!).
- Weigh bags one last time: Use a portable luggage scale to avoid surprises at the airport by confirming your luggage meets weight limits.
Home Prep
- Feed & water your pets: If you have fish, use extended-release food to keep them happy while you’re gone.
- Take out any last bits of trash: Leave your home fresh and clean for your return.
- Unplug electronics and appliances: Save energy and reduce the risk of power surges while you’re away.
- Lock all doors and windows. Double-check them and set the alarm.
- Ensure your car(s) are locked and the garage is closed.
Now you’ve ticked off the final tasks, you can head out the door with confidence, knowing everything is taken care of. Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy your well-deserved family vacation!
Conclusion
Planning a family vacation can feel overwhelming, but with this pre-vacation checklist, you can finally get all those to-dos out of your head and onto paper. By breaking things down into manageable steps and starting early, you’ll tackle each task with confidence and focus on what really matters—making unforgettable memories with your family.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s peace of mind. So, take a deep breath, trust your planning, and get ready to enjoy every moment of your well-deserved getaway.
If you found this guide helpful, please consider pinning it to your vacation planning board or sharing it with a fellow mom who could use a little pre-trip help. Let’s make family vacations easier for everyone!
More Family Packing Tips & Tricks from Slow Traveling Family
- The Ultimate Family Travel Packing Guide
- The Family Vacation Packing List That Will Save Your Sanity
- Minimalist Packing Tips: How To Pack Light When Traveling with Kids
