Summer vacations are around the corner for us and we have lots of exciting travels coming up. So, we have been thinking about packing tips -- isn't packing suitcases for a family the biggest job ever?

Personally, when I'm packing, I prefer my kids to be out of the house, so I can prepare in total focus and with ultimate concentration. It usually takes me almost a full day to pack -- and then I'm not even counting the prep work of washing, folding, and sorting beforehand!

The biggest challenge when I'm packing, is to pack as little as possible. We mostly travel by car, and with the 6 of us stowed in the car already there is not a lot of room for luggage. Or, if we fly, we usually try to pack in small, carry-on suitcases.

So here are some tips for packing practical and light:

Traveling light (with children)

Layering

I like bringing some cardigans or hoodies to layer over t-shirts and summer dresses. A few pairs of knee socks keep feet and lower legs warm. Leggings are great layering pieces as well.

Footwear

Saltwater sandals, Crocs or Natives are waterproof, easily cleaned, and can be worn over above mentioned knee socks if necessary. Flip flops are so easy and small to pack. (I try to avoid taking wellies but for some trips they're mandatory...)

Pac-a-mac foldable raincoats

The kind of raincoat that fold up inside a pocket and can be strapped around your middle. We have one for each member of the family, and they keep us warm and dry when needed. We take no other coats than these. (Added bonus -- we have bright coloured macs in one colour -- great to keep an eye on the kids in busy places!)

Turkish towels

So much smaller to pack and quicker to dry than terry towels. They double up perfectly as picnic blankets or sheets, by the way.

Personal backpack

Each child carries a small backpack with a notebook and a pencil-case, a sunhat, sunglasses, a thin and royal sized square scarf (doubles as a blanket, play mat or sun screen), one favourite doll or stuffed animal, a little pouch with some tiny toys for imaginary play (like Schleich animals, Playmobil characters, cars or trains), and some small games (a deck of cards, Uno, Dobble or Memory are good examples and fun to play as a family).

A small (umbrella) stroller (and/or small carrier)

Even though for city living I prefer a bigger, more comfortable stroller, for traveling we prefer the lighter, smaller type of buggy which ideally can be taken on the plane. If your child is big enough, you could think of taking a scooter instead of a stroller (ok, this is maybe not packing ultra light, but they're great to take if you can!).

Argan oil and Shea Butter

I love argan oil when I'm traveling -- I put it on my face, body, and hair. One bottle for everything -- less is more! Shea butter is also lovely for face, lips, hands, dry patches of skin, hair even.

Shampoo and samples

A little bottle of shampoo doesn't just wash hair, body and hands, it's also great to use as laundry detergent -- to quickly hand-wash some underwear or t-shirts when on the road. Also, take samples for toiletries instead of the big bottles to save space.

That's what I came up with... Again -- please share your tips for light packing. I can use them, I promise!

xxx Esther