Making a Family Emergency Supply Tote for Traveling with Kids

When we went traveling to one place or another when our children were young, I carried a huge purse,much too large for me to drag around. After all, I needed to carry everything from an extra diaper and a mini first aid kit to children's books and snacks. Nevertheless, it seemed that no matter where we went, the children required some item that wasn't in my purse.

What do you do when one of the children gets sick in the car while traveling? What do you do when you are away from home and one of the children has some sort of accident and you have no change of clothes? What parent hasn't dealt with this problem while traveling, including my son and daughter-in-law?

A few years ago at a family gathering, one of our young grandchildren needed a change of clothes. No one had extra clothes along and the poor boy had to wrap up in a blanket until a quick trip to the local, and very small, store yielded something that could be used. However, the solution was less than perfect and was, for a small boy, unacceptable. The next time we held a family gathering, an extra change of clothes for the children was high on the list of "must bring."

While in the rush of packing before heading out, often the last thing we consider are those "extras," especially if the family is just traveling across town. However, whether traveling several hours away or traveling across town, children will have accidents, and whatever happens is usually the one thing not planned for. However, by planning ahead, major problems can become mere inconveniences and keep parents somewhat sane and children from feeling humiliated.

Instead of trying to carry around a heavy purse, think in terms of a family emergency supply tote for the car. A family emergency supply tote can be kept in the car and checked when time isn't of the essence. Totes are cheap and easy to find. Buy one that fits nicely on the floor of the car or someplace handy. It doesn't have to be huge, but large enough to carry the following items-just in case.

If you have an infant, pack extra diapers, wipes, ointment, toys, as well as extra formula and bottles if the baby is not breastfed.

Carry plastic bags of different sizes that can be used for wet or soiled children's clothing. Smaller plastic bags can be used as "sick" bags if one of the children becomes ill while traveling.

Make sure to include wipes and hand sanitizer. Children are constantly in need of clean-up, even while traveling in the car. A couple of towels are also a good idea. Emergencies happen while traveling. Children may get wet, dirty-even bloody (nose bleeds aren't fun in an enclosed space with nothing to stem the tide).

Include a selection of activities the children can use while buckled up such as books, crayons, game machines-depending on the age of the child.

Include nonperishable snack items (quick, non-messy items easily consumed while traveling without needing major cleanup) and water for adults and children alike.

At home or when traveling, anytime children play, they will get dirty. When traveling, it is a good idea to pack the family emergency supply tote with a complete second set of clothing, including night clothes and an extra jacket/sweater in case the weather turns cool. Doesn't hurt to have two (rather than one) pair of extra socks and underwear.

An extra blanket can be used to protect one from the ground at a picnic or concert, or tucked around a sleeping child.

Add a favorite music CD to liven up a long, boring drive and make traveling time seem to go by more quickly.

Keeping a family emergency supply tote handy will help take the stress out of family traveling, visiting and outings.