Packing for Your Trip Up North

Busy parents know how this goes.  You are going Up North for the holiday weekend and you are in charge of everything.  You've got to plan the menus, shop for the food, make sure all the laundry is done, get the clothes picked out for every member of the family and get it all packed.  Piece of cake, right?

I'd like to give you a few of my tips that I've discovered over the years that make it far less likely for me to majorly stress out or forget all the important things.  There's nothing worse than having to run to the closest Walmart for underwear just as your vacation begins (not that I've done that of course).

1. Plan ahead.  I know that sounds really simplistic, but I find that if I spend time making a list a full week before we leave, I'll be less likely to forget something important.  Put every darn thing on that list, even if you think you'd never forget it (i.e. the dog).  I like to use my phone for that list so that wherever I am, if I remember something else, I can add it to that list easily.
2. Make a schedule.  With that week that you set aside, plan what you're going to do every day before you leave for vacation.  For example, I do laundry two days before we leave so that I have time to fold it and set it out to be ready to pack.  If you do it too early, your favorite shorts or underwear will likely be dirty again.
3. Think through your vacation plans. Your plans include boating, swimming, hiking, and shopping.  Your packing list then includes swim suits, beach towels, sunscreen, floaties for the water, sandals, hats, hiking boots, an outfit for strolling through town, and casual clothes for those lazy days on the lake. 
4. Layers are key.  As you know Wisconsin well, then you know that the weather changes quickly.  Bring rain coats even if the forecast looks clear.  Bring hats and sunscreen for the sunshine.  You may not need sweaters that take up a lot of space in the suitcase, but you can definitely layer up.  On a chilly evening, a t-shirt underneath a sweatshirt will keep you warm.  A warm pair of socks can do wonders when the weather feels a bit cold.

I hope these hints help you to have a stress free packing experience!  Have a great trip.