We’ve all been there.  You’re packing for a trip and think you have everything you need.  You arrive at your destination to find out that you’ve forgotten something important.  Christmas is a busy and crazy time, whether or not your travel.  If you are planning to travel during the holidays it’s best to be prepared with everything you and your family might need.  Here is a quick checklist you can use when packing for your holiday travel this year.

1. Medications (prescription and non-prescription). Even if your children are healthy, be sure to bring along any and all medication that they could possibly need. You never know when a situation will arise that will require those medications for your kids.

2. Toothbrushes and toothpaste. Mom and Dad find it easy to remember to pack their own dental hygiene items. Younger kids may need reminding, though. Be sure everyone packs a toothbrush and toothpaste.

3. Sewing kit. Mishaps always happen. A button pops off, a skirt hem falls out. Pack a mini sewing kit in your suitcase to have on hand, just in case you need it.

4. Proper clothing. Call ahead of time and find out what the weather will be like where you are headed. Get specific temperatures if possible so that you will know what type of clothing to bring.

5. Extra clothing. Don’t forget to pack extra clothes as well, for everyone. Kids will need more clothing than adults, but it won’t hurt to throw in an extra outfit or two for you as well.

6. Shoes. Be sure you have matching shoes to wear with your outfits and don’t forget to bring the right shoes for the right weather.

7. Hair accessories. If you have daughters and they wear hair accessories, be sure to pack plenty to go along with their outfits. (Don’t forget the hairbrush either!)

8. Games for the kids. Kids get bored on road trips, especially if the trips are more than an hour or two. To save your sanity, be sure to bring along several fun games that they can play in the car. Puzzle books, portable CD/MP3 players and portable DVD players are a few ideas that might keep your children occupied during a long car trip.

9. Camera and batteries.  If you still use a film camera, don’t forget film.  If you use a digital camera, make sure to pack your extra memory stick.

10. Finally, don’t forget the presents!  It’s a much too common scenario, you pack up the car, start your road trip to visit relatives for a relaxing family Christmas only to realize you’ve left the presents behind. 

Make a list of everything you’ve decided to take and check things off one by one.  You’ll save yourself a lot of headaches  on your holiday trip this year.