Minimalist Packing Tips: How To Pack Light When Travelling with Kids
If you’re planning a family vacation and wondering whether you could save on airline fees by packing light, you’ve landed in the right place.
We’re a full-time traveling family of four, and everything we own fits into two carry-on bags and four under-seat-sized backpacks. If we can do it, there’s no reason you can’t too!
In this guide, we’ll share our top 10 tips for minimalist packing—even with kids. And if the thought of navigating airport security with carry-ons and little ones feels daunting, we’ll walk you through how we manage the logistics so you can feel prepared and confident.
Is Minimalist Traveling with Kids Worth It?
If I asked most families why they wanted to pack light, I’d bet the top answer would be, “to save on those extortionate luggage fees.” And hey, I get it—budget airlines can be brutal! But have you considered all the other benefits of traveling light as a family?
- Save money. Not just on flights, but also on airport transfers. Many transfer companies limit the number of suitcases they can carry, so packing light could mean the difference between booking a standard car or paying extra for a larger vehicle.
- Don’t need to waste time in the check-in line at the airport. In many airports you can skip this step and go straight to security if you’ve checked in online and are traveling carry on only.
- More hands free to keep hold of the kids in a busy airport and crossing roads at the other side of the journey. Have you ever tried keeping hold of two hyperactive kids while juggling three rucksacks and two big cases? I rest my case.
- Less clutter at your accommodation. Less time tidying up after everyone.
- Less chance of losing something – the fewer bags you have to keep an eye on (in between watching the kids) the less likely you are to leave something behind or lose it.
- Easier to pack everything back up at the end of your vacation so more time is freed up to do the fun stuff.
- Save your back. It wouldn’t be the first time we’d turned up to an Airbnb to realize it was on the 8th floor and there was no elevator.
As a full-time traveling family, we fit all our belongings into two carry-on bags and four personal-item backpacks that slide under the seat for free. Whether you’re traveling full-time or just for a short break, we believe every family can reap the benefits of minimalist travel.
Top 10 Quickfire Tips for Packing Light with a Family
These minimalist packing hacks come from a year of trial and error as a full-time traveling family of four. We’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to! Some of these tips might resonate with you, while others might not. But even adopting a few of them will help your family pack lighter and smarter.
1. Shift Your Mindset
Packing light starts with a mental shift. As parents, we often operate on a “just in case” mentality—of course, we do, kids are unpredictable! But do you want to know the truth? You’re resourceful, and you can handle whatever comes your way. And most things can be bought on vacation if and when you need them. Commit to packing only what you truly need. Repeat after me: “Everything in this bag has to earn its place. No more freeloaders!”
2. Choose the Right Cabin Bags
We swear by the Eastpak Tranverz S. It’s carry-on compliant for most budget airlines (and we’ve flown with a lot of them!). Its canvas shell and compression straps let us adjust the depth to meet airline requirements. Feel free to read our full Eastpak Tranverz S review to see if it’s right for you too!
3. Maximize the Free Under-Seat Allowance
Most airlines allow a personal item that fits under the seat for free. Double-check the size and weight limits, and make sure every family member uses this space wisely. Our 8- and 10-year-olds carry their own clothes and toys in backpacks designed to fit under-seat dimensions. This frees up space in our carry-on bags for everything else.
4. Use Compression Packing Cubes
I swear by them! Without them, our bags would be a chaotic mess. After trying several brands, we recommend the ECOHUB compression cubes—they’ve held up through a year of heavy use, while others had major zip failures before we even left home.
5. Pack Minimal Toiletries
Only bring enough for the first day or two. If you’re staying in one place for a while, buy shampoo, conditioner, and other basics locally. When you leave, consider leaving leftover toiletries for future guests. They get a free shower, and you save space in your luggage—it’s a win-win!
6. Book Accommodations with a Washing Machine
This is non-negotiable for us. With kids, clothes get dirty fast, and having a washing machine means you can pack fewer items. You can use the filters on Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO to find properties with this amenity.
7. Stick to Dark-Colored Clothing
Kids are messy, and white clothes stain easily. After a year of traveling, we’ve learned to pack darker colors that hide stains and look fresh longer.
8. Only Pack Clothes You Love
How many times have you packed that pretty dress that looks stunning on the hanger but never gets worn because it’s slightly see-through? Come on…own up!
Before we switched to minimal packing, I’d guiltily toss those “wardrobe orphans” into my suitcase, only to hang them up at our destination and still feel guilty for not wearing them. Sound familiar? Yep, it’s madness. But we’ve all been there.
Here’s the rule: EVERY item must earn its place. That means it has to look good, feel good, and make you feel fantastic when it’s on!
9. Invest in Merino Wool Tops
Merino wool is miraculous. It keeps you warm by trapping air and cool by releasing it when it’s warm. It absorbs moisture and sweat without feeling damp.
Plus, its natural antibacterial properties mean it doesn’t hold on to odors. You can wear it multiple times without worrying about freshness.
But that’s not all. It’s also much lighter than cotton, dries quickly on a clothesline, and—coming from someone with sensitive skin—it’s hypoallergenic and itch-free, unlike other wools. Yes, it’s a bit pricier upfront, but we’re definitely converts.
10. Ditch the Chunky Jumper
We all want to be prepared for the cold, especially when evenings can get chilly—even in warmer climates. But that chunky jumper will eat up half your luggage allowance, even with compression packing cubes.
Here’s our solution: wear a lightweight sweatshirt for your flight and pack a long-sleeved thermal top for each family member. On cooler days, layer the thermal under the sweatshirt for extra warmth. Add a lightweight rain jacket over the top to block wind or rain, and you’re set.
When the sun comes out and things heat up, simply peel off a layer or two and stash them in your backpack. These lightweight layers take up far less space than one bulky sweater, leaving you with more room for other essentials.
Is Traveling Light with Kids a Nightmare at Airport Security?
I get it—airport security is stressful enough without adding kids and multiple bags to the mix. Surely, it’s easier to check in all your luggage so you’ve only got the kids to manage, right? But please don’t let these doubts get the better of you. It’s totally manageable! Here’s how we do it:
1. Keep Electronics and Liquids Together
Don’t scatter these items across your carry-ons or the kids’ personal bags. Instead, pack all electronics and toiletries in TSA-approved bags and store them in the adults’ under-seat (personal item) bags. This way, you can send the other bags through the scanner without opening them. Once those are in the trays, simply empty the contents of the two designated bags. It’s so much easier than digging through every bag at security!
2. Prep in Line
Have everyone empty their pockets and remove jackets while waiting in line. This keeps the process smooth and quick once you reach the scanners.
3. Consider Fast-Track Services
If security feels overwhelming, check if your airport offers fast-track options. The extra space and assistance can make a world of difference when traveling with kids.
Conclusion: Minimalist Packing with Kids Is Worth the Effort
Packing light with kids is so worth the effort. Not only will you save money and time, but you’ll also free yourself from the stress of lugging around heavy bags and juggling clutter.
Are you ready to give it a try? Start by picking one or two tips from this guide and see how they work for your next trip. Whether it’s investing in compression cubes or ditching the chunky jumpers, every small step will make a big difference.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with other parents who might be feeling overwhelmed by the idea of minimalist packing. Or, drop a comment below and let us know which tip you’re most excited to try.
Happy travels—we can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Packing light means bringing only the essentials—items you’ll actually use and need—while skipping the “just in case” extras. For families, this often means fitting everything into carry-ons and under-seat bags. It’s about prioritizing versatility, minimizing clutter, and focusing on experiences over stuff.
The 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule is a simple framework to help you pack light and stay organized. Here’s how it works:
1 hat (or headwear for sun or cold)
2 pairs of shoes (one for walking, one for comfort or dressier occasions)
3 bottoms (e.g., pants, shorts, or skirts)
4 tops (mix of casual and versatile options)
5 pairs of socks and underwear (plus one extra, just in case!)
6 accessories (like belts, scarves, or jewelry)
This rule keeps your packing focused and ensures you have enough variety without overloading your bags. It’s perfect for family travel, as it simplifies decision-making and leaves room for the essentials!
The 5-4-3-2-1 rule is a minimalist packing strategy to help you travel light and efficiently. Here’s the breakdown:
5 sets of socks and underwear (one for each day, plus an extra just in case)
4 tops (mix of casual and versatile options)
3 bottoms (e.g., pants, shorts, or skirts)
2 pairs of shoes (one for walking, one for comfort or dressier occasions)
1 hat or accessory (for sun protection or style)
This rule is similar to the 1-2-3-4-5-6 packing rule. It ensures you have enough clothing for a week while keeping your luggage compact and manageable.
The 3-3-3 rule is a streamlined approach to packing light and staying organized. Here’s how it works:
3 tops (versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched)
3 bottoms (e.g., pants, shorts, or skirts)
3 pairs of shoes (one for walking, one for comfort, and one for dressier occasions)
This rule is perfect for shorter trips or when you want to keep things simple. It encourages you to focus on multi-purpose items and avoid overpacking, making it a great strategy for families who want to travel light and stress-free.
Packing lighter when flying starts with a mindset shift: focus on essentials and versatility. Here are some quick tips:
Stick to a capsule wardrobe: Choose clothes that mix and match easily.
Use packing cubes: Compress your clothes and stay organized.
Limit shoes: Bring 1-2 versatile pairs.
Pack multi-purpose items: A scarf can double as a blanket, or a sarong as a beach cover-up.
Toiletries: Bring travel-sized products or buy them at your destination.
Layers over bulk: Opt for lightweight layers instead of heavy sweaters.
Wear your bulkiest items: Save space by wearing your jacket or boots on the plane.
Minimalist packing is the art of traveling with only the essentials—nothing more, nothing less. It’s about being intentional with what you bring, focusing on versatility, and avoiding the “just in case” items that weigh you down. Think: fewer clothes, multi-purpose items, and a streamlined approach to toiletries and accessories. The goal is to simplify your luggage so you can focus on the experience, not the stuff. For families, minimalist packing means less clutter, fewer bags to manage, and more freedom to enjoy the journey together.
More On Packing with Kids From Slow Traveling Family
- The Ultimate Family Travel Packing Guide
- The Family Vacation Packing List That Will Save Your Sanity
- The Ultimate Pre-Vacation Checklist: Family Travel Prep Made Easy
