Minimalist Travel with Toddlers: Tips for Streamlining Luggage and Reducing Waiting Time

May 7, 2024

One of the recurring challenges of traveling with toddlers is the accumulation of luggage. From diapers to milk, toys to snacks, and spare clothes to children's cutlery, attempting to prepare for every conceivable circumstance inevitably leads to overstuffed bags.

Nevertheless, when boarding a plane, the ordeal of checking baggage or waiting amidst a throng of travelers while managing children can be daunting. Hence, the genuine desire is often to streamline belongings and confine them solely to carry-on luggage.

In this post, I aim to introduce the luggage we took on a two-night, three-day trip to Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, with our one and two-year-old children.

Our belongings comprised:

One carry-on suitcase
One carry-on backpack
One small handbag

Omitting a stroller proved advantageous, as it saved time by obviating the need to check or retrieve luggage. Though necessitating the carrying of children, our decision was justified by our one-year-old's aversion to strollers and our two-year-old's ability to walk independently.

Here is a breakdown of each individual's belongings:

For the One-Year-Old:

Four days' worth of clothing changes
Four bibs
30 medium-sized diapers
Swimsuit
Powdered formula (in cubes)
Two bottles
Thermos for hot water
Snacks

Key to reducing luggage was the strategic use of bibs and the omission of pajamas. Bibs, easily washable, minimized clothing changes. Pajamas were forgone, replaced by a onesie worn at night and layered with pants the next day for daytime wear.

For the Two-Year-Old:

Four days' worth of clothing changes
20 large-sized diapers
10 diaper liners
Swimsuit
Snacks
Drawing supplies

A significant reduction in luggage was achieved through the use of diaper liners, halving the required quantity of diapers.

For Myself:

One dress
Two sets of underwear
Swimsuit
Toiletries and makeup

A quick-drying dress was chosen for its convenience, worn on the first and second days, while a soft cotton dress served as both pajamas and daytime attire. Toiletries were restricted to travel-sized items, complemented by minimal makeup.

As for my husband's belongings, while I refrained from interference, his minimalist approach harmonized with our travel philosophy.

What is in our bag?

The suitcase contained heavier items such as clothing, diapers, milk, and toiletries, while the backpack held lighter essentials like snacks, toys, a few diapers for the flight, powdered formula, and wet wipes. Valuables such as passports, cash, and keys were stored in the small handbag.

Though the suitcase may seem brimming, it reflects our careful planning and prioritization. With the small handbag over my shoulder and the children in tow, we embarked on our journey, hoping that our insights will benefit future family travelers.

This is the entire vlog for our travel. Please give us a thumbs up if you enjoyed it or if it is helpful!

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