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Shop March 17, 2025

Family vacation essentials, tips and must-have products

PHOTO: Stock Photo
Pixdeluxe/Getty Images
Stock Photo

As we gear up for the busy travel seasons of spring and summer, it's the perfect time to refine your family's packing strategy.

Below, we break down packing essentials by trip type, highlighting versatile items for beach getaways, compact gear for city adventures and must-haves for road trips or camping.

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From travel-friendly strollers to snack ideas and entertainment options, we'll ensure you're prepared for any adventure.

Get ready to pack smarter and lighter without leaving behind the things that matter most.

Check it all out below.

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Beach vacation essentials

A beach trip is all about sun, sand and relaxation, but the right gear can make all the difference. Pack light yet efficiently to ensure the whole family enjoys their time by the shore.

Tips:

WEKAPO Beach Blanket

Price: $28.98 · From Amazon

This blanket comes in various sizes and is water and sand-proof to help keep your area clean and comfortable.

Kids' Sun-and-Surf Swim Shirt

Price: $39.95 · From L.L. Bean

A long-sleeved rash guard provides much-needed sun protection for kids and adults.

Portal Collapsible Folding Utility Wagon

Price: $94.99 · 26% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $129.99

An all-terrain wagon is perfect for transporting all your beach gear.

Case-Mate Soap Bubble Waterproof Phone Pouch

Price: $19.99 · From Amazon

This pouch protects your devices from sand and water while allowing touchscreen functionality.

WeeSprout 100% Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags

Price: $9.98 · From Amazon

These keep snacks fresh and prevent sand from getting into your food.

City adventure essentials

Exploring a city means lots of walking, navigating crowds and being prepared for different weather conditions. The key is packing compact, multi-use items to keep everyone comfortable.

Tips:

gb Pockit Air All Terrain Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller

Price: $108.99 · From Amazon

This stroller is lightweight and folds easily, making it ideal for navigating busy streets and public transportation.

JBL JR 460NC - Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Kids Headphones

Price: $49.95 · 37% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $79.95

These headphones help children manage sensory overload and stay entertained in noisy environments.

SABANI Portable Charger

Price: $28.49 · 32% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $41.99

A must-have to ensure your devices stay charged throughout the day while on the go. This one comes with four different built-in cables.

Echo Travel Wrap Set

Price: $59.40 · 40% Savings
From Bloomingdale's

Original: $99

This scarf can act as a cover-up, blanket or sunshade, making it a versatile travel accessory.

Foldable Shopping Bag

Price: $8.49 · From Amazon

These convenient bags easily fit into your backpack and expand when needed for carrying souvenirs or snacks.

Road trip essentials

Long hours in the car call for comfort, entertainment and plenty of snacks. Packing strategically helps keep everyone happy and engaged throughout the journey.

Tips:

Car Seat Back Organizer Table Tray

Price: $35.99 · From Amazon

This organizer keeps everything accessible for kids, reducing clutter in the car, and provides them with a convenient place to eat.

The AeroLight Transit Bottle, 16 Oz.

Price: $30 · From Stanley

This bottle is compatible with car cup holders and is a great way to keep drinks hot or cold for long hours on the road.

Magnetic Travel Games

Price: $25.99 · 13% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $29.99

These games provide mess-free entertainment for kids and help pass the time.

Fanttik Slim Cordless Car Vacuum

Price: $99.99 · From Walmart

A compact vacuum that helps keep crumbs and dirt under control in the vehicle is a must-have on long road trips.

Car Sun Shade

Price: $14.99 · From Amazon

These shades provide sun protection and help create a better environment for naps during the trip, and even have handy storage pockets.

Camping and outdoor adventure essentials

Camping with kids is all about preparation! Ensuring you have the right gear for sleeping, cooking and safety makes for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Tips:

The North Face Wawona Bed 20 Sleeping Bag

Price: $130 · From REI

These sleeping bags keep everyone warm and comfortable in different weather conditions.

Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Collapsible One Pot 5-Piece Cookset

Price: $179.95 · From REI

This space-saving cookware is easy to clean and perfect for campsite cooking.

Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lanterns, 4-pack

Price: $29.99 · From Amazon

A reliable light source that doesn't require batteries, making it ideal for camping trips. These lanterns are collapsible and rechargeable.

ClassiQ Chair

Price: $109.99 · From Cliq

These chairs provide comfortable seating while being easy to transport. They fold up to the size of a water bottle!

CORE Straight Wall Cabin Tent

Price: $349.99 · From Amazon

This is a spacious and easy-to-set-up tent that provides separate rooms for comfort and protection for the entire family during outdoor adventures.