Top essentials to pack for a day out with the kids
*This is a collaborative guest post
Planning a fun day out with the kids is one thing, but having it go off without a hitch can be a whole other story. From keeping everyone entertained, scheduling in snack breaks, and managing tantrums, even the best-laid plans can go off track.
But with the right essentials—like a trusty reusable bottle for you and the kids, snacks and even a first-aid kit—you can be prepared for anything. This makes it easier to relax and have fun, and ensure the kids are kept happy too. Let’s take a look at the top essentials to pack for a day out with the kids.
Stay hydrated all day
Being outdoors generally means you’re going to get thirsty. Add in chasing after and having fun with kids, and everyone’s going to need hydration. So, being prepared with reusable cups or bottles for everyone will help keep you and the kids happy and hydrated.
A good tip for a smooth day out with the kids is to have a different coloured cup or bottle for each person. This not only ensures that everyone has their own, but also helps avoid mixups when it’s time to drink. Plus, if you use insulated bottles, you can keep water chilled for hours, perfect for those warmer days.
Packing the perfect picnic
When you’re taking the whole family out, or the kids have their besties in tow, eating out can get pricey quickly. Packing a picnic can help keep costs down, and ensure everyone has their favourite foods and snacks, including yourself. This can be especially handy if you have any picky eaters.
When packing a picnic, you can’t go wrong with the classics: kid-friendly sandwiches, fresh fruits, muesli bars and a few cheeky snacks will keep everyone happy. If you’re feeling a little creative, you could make pizza pinwheels, snack boards with cheese, crackers and deli meats, or even some homemade sausage rolls. Ice packs will help keep everything nice and cool and ready to devour. Remember to include options for dietary preferences and some sweet treats for desserts, giving the whole group energy for the rest of the day.
Sun safety essentials
If you’re going to be outdoors, even for a little while, sun safety is important. Before you leave the house, ensure everyone puts on sunscreen with high SPF. Make sure to pack the bottle so you can reapply every couple of hours. Heading into the water? Don’t forget to reapply after you and the kids have had a swim. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses (you can get cheap sunglasses online from Glasses2you) will also help keep the sun out of eyes and off of sensitive skin.
Depending where you’re going and the time of year, lightweight clothing will help keep you and the kids comfortable and your skin protected. You can also bring portable shade options, like umbrellas or pop-up tents for rest breaks and to cool off undercover.
On-the-go entertainment
Kids can get bored fast, which can be tricky when you’re out and about. Whether you have a long way to your destination or downtime in-between activities, being organised can help you keep the kids occupied.
Outdoor games, like lawn bowls or a cricket set, are perfect if you have lots of open space for the kids to run around. As for the indoors or when travelling, colouring books and small toys can be useful distractions. Activities that encourage the kids to get up and move or be creative are always a fun choice.
Preparing for emergencies
Accidents happen. But being prepared ensures those accidents don’t completely derail the day. This is where creating emergency kits for accidents, weather changes or allergies can help you feel relaxed and ready for anything.
An essential for any emergency kit is a small first-aid pack, including things like bandaids, wound care, sting treatment and other necessities. Looking like the weather will turn? An extra change of clothes for each person can also help everyone stay comfortable if there’s a sudden downpour. Think the day might warm up? Make sure you wear layers so it’s easy to cool down.
Ready for the ultimate day out
With all your essentials packed and ready to go, you’re ready for the ultimate day out! All you need to do now is enjoy the moment, knowing that you have all you need for any situation. The important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident so you can have a good time, as well as the kids.
