How to Pack for 5 Months

 

Probably the most stressful part of our trip happens before we have even left. Packing. Since our time away is longer this year, and we will span the months of January to June in Canada, Italy and Turkey, we knew it was going to be a challenge. Some of the questions you would generally ask yourself while trying to decide what to pack are...

Will it be very cold where we are going? (Yes)

Will it be quite warm where we are going? (Yes)

Will the children be playing in the snow? (Yes)

Will the children go swimming? (Yes)

Will it rain? (Yes)

Will there be a lot of walking? (Yes)

Will there be extensive lengths of time traveling by car, bus, plane or train? (Yes to all)

Will we be on vacation? (Sometimes)

Will we be working/homeschooling? (Sometimes)

This list of questions goes on and on, and in this case the answer to nearly every one is "yes" in some degree. Pack snowsuits, pack swimsuits, pack mittens and sunscreen. Pack shoes that can get dirty and wet, but pack some that can't as well. Pack boots, and sandals. Pack things that children need when they are on the go, and when they are not going anywhere. Pack just enough treasures and momentos to make them feel comfortable in their temporary homes.

So, pack everything, essentially. (But make sure your bags are not more than 50 pounds each!)

Ozayr dutifully packs it all up, but I know that I am the worst offender in the family for including somewhat-odd items that I "can't live without." Here is my list:

2 brand new kitchen sponges, the kind I like. One for our apartment in Rome, and one for Istanbul.

My own measuring spoons.

Essentials oils to fight off colds.

 

Neocitran for Ozayr when he does get a cold.

LEGO for the kids to play with when we are home.

A new craft or activity to keep them busy.

Any pharmacy items that I am particular about.

Yellow legal notepads for making lists.

Leisure reading for the girls and I based on the places we will visit.

My Fashy velour-covered hot water bottle. I know! This is my best friend during the winter months at home, and even though it is considerably warmer here, it is very damp inside and the apartments can get very cold.

And of course some loving reminders of home and the things and people we love...

for the children, of course ;-)