Packing Checklist for Teens(13+)

Let your teens pack their own bags. (Credit: Steve Cole/Getty Images)

If you’ve ever had the urge to send your teenager packing, now’s your chance: Give them this checklist and let them pack their own bags. (Okay, there’s also a checklist for things you might want to hold on to yourself, like your child’s ID and first aid supplies.) Here’s everything your teen needs to be prepared for your next trip.

Suitcase

Clothes __ outfits (1 per day + 1 extra) __ dressy outfit __ socks (1 per day + 1 extra) __ underwear (1 per day + 1 extra) and bras (3 per week) __ pajamas (2 pairs per week) __ shoes/sandals __ barrettes/ponytail holders __ sweatshirt/sweater __ jacket __ hat

Child’s Carry-on Bag/Tote __ wallet/souvenir money __ MP3 player and charger __ cell phone and charger __ headphones __ deck of cards __ homework/textbooks __ journal/notebook and pen __ washable markers __ activity books __ book/magazines __ Gameboy or another handheld game __ laptop, tablet computer or portable DVD player with favorite DVD __ sweatshirt/hoodie/sweater __ snacks __ gum for takeoff and landing to relieve ear pressure __ lip balm __ glasses or contacts with case and solution __ sunglasses

Parent’s Carry-on/Tote __ child’s passport if traveling internationally __ child’s driver’s license (if they’re old enough) __ plastic bags (for storing clothes that get dirty, motion sickness emergencies, etc.) __ extra shirt for child __ extra shirt for you __ tissues __ digital thermometer __ children’s nasal saline drops __ children’s acetaminophen __ prescription medications __ antibiotic ointment __ bandages

Bath __ shampoo/conditioner __ soap __ toothbrush __ toothpaste __ comb/hairbrush __ deodorant __ sunscreen __ hair styling products __ feminine products __ makeup

Sun/Pool/Beach __ 2 swimsuits __ earplugs __ beach towel __ bug spray

Cold Weather/Snow __ gloves/mittens __ parka __ snow boots __ snow pants __ warm hat

Health and Safety __ prescribed medicine __ aspirin/pain reliever