You’ve spent years helping them pack for trips and encouraging them to do it on their own. Older kids might not want your help, but this printable travel packing checklist for tweens and teens is an easy way to help them remember everything they need.
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Every summer my kids spend two weeks with grandparents. In the beginning, I packed each child’s suitcase meticulously. I included each day’s outfit and matching accessories packed neatly into a plastic zip bag and labeled.
As they got older, I made a printable vacation packing list for kids and encouraged them to pack for themselves. For kids in the 5-10 age range, that list is a great way to give them some independence while still being helpful.
Now that my kids are tweens – and teens – I’ve gotten a bit lazier. When the kids left with grandparents this summer, to be honest, I don’t know whether they even brought any underwear.
The truth is, pre-teens and teenagers still need guidance from parents. As long as you’re being helpful in a not-helicopter-y way, they’re probably going to appreciate it.
If you’re packing for a family vacation, sending the kids to grandma’s house, or just headed out of the house for a weekend, grab this printable travel packing checklist for tweens.
How this list is different
Tweens are in that weird middle stage where they don’t really need you to pack their suitcases but will enjoy coloring books for the drive/flight.
I made this as a new, updated version of my packing list for kids. It includes less detail and more room for personal preferences. Your kids might not really need to pick out outfits for each day. And they probably don’t need you to tell them exactly how many pairs of socks to take.
I tried to make this list gender-inclusive and left several blank lines so that you or your tween can add in other items. I know plenty of older kids who still travel with their favorite stuffed animal; they might be embarrassed for you to write it on the packing list for them.
I’m also certain that putting pads and tampons on a list for some tweens would be mortifying. Others do probably need a reminder.
If you get an eye roll when you hand over this list, remind your child that even adults forget things and even you use a packing list (like this adult packing list) when you’re packing for a big trip.
There’s also a section at the bottom for travel notes. This is a handy place to write in how long the trip will be or other important details that will affect the packing (weather, special events, etc.).
Get the printable
This list prints on a single sheet of 8.5×11-inch paper. You could probably scale it down to fit something smaller. All printables are for personal use only.
What’s next? Try these other fun and creative ideas on One Mama’s Daily Drama:
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