Layering While Traveling with Kids
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How to layer while traveling with Kids
Updated: February 23, 2022
How to pack layers while traveling with kids.
We get asked about how to pack for travel with kids all the time! One of our keys to success is packing multi-use items that work together. Many of our trips include warm humid climates and cold mountainous climates on the same trip and layering is how we make packing work.
Layering for success includes the following items:
- Base Layer
- Fleece/Sweater
- Down Jacket
- Rain Coat
Travel with Kids
Would it be easier to leave your kids with grandparents while traveling? Yes. But, we would argue that exploring the world with your children by far enhances the experience for both you and your child. Not to mention the amazing bond and memories you create. So, it is absolutely worth traveling the world (or even your own city) with your kids. From our experience, kids are truly interested in seeing other cultures and tasting new foods. Other cultures and communities are also interested in seeing and experiencing our kids!
Packing for any trip with kids can be a daunting task. To complicate things, your trip can include various climates! A great example is a trip we took to Ecuador. We explored the Galapagos Islands and mainland cloud forests then spent a portion of our trip at Cotopaxi Volcano (pictured above). It was really cold hiking to the refugio at Cotopaxi and all of our layers were needed for sure!
In order to optimize your travel experience, pack efficiently to lower stress. Also, keep in mind that if you forget something, you can pick it up wherever you are going. So, let’s take some of the stress of packing away by breaking down layering while traveling with kids!
For other resources for traveling with kids, take a look at the quick links below!
Quick Links
How to Layer while Traveling with Kids
To simplify, we use the same system for each member of our family and share examples for baby, toddler, kids and adults below. One of the keys to successful layering is to be able to wear each item individually or all of them together. Our favorite suitcase for family travel is the Osprey Shuttle (Review).
When packing layers, use a compression sack (like this) to keep everyone’s like items together. This also minimizes space taken up by items you may only wear for a portion of your trip. Another benefit to keeping your layers separate is they stay clean and sand free if a portion of your trip is at the beach.
For our initial flight, we typically pack our rain coats in an easy grab section of our suitcase in case it’s raining when you land. We wear our sweater/fleece layer on the plane and pack the remaining items (down coats/rain pants) in the compression sack.
If your first location is a warm climate, you can keep your sweater and down layers in the compression sack and carry your rain coat and rain pants in your day pack. We also carry umbrellas just in case.
We are guilty of having a basic travel uniform! This typically includes quick dry hiking/yoga pants and a long sleeve UV protective base layer. We pair this packing system with waterproof light hikers (like these!). Light hikers are appropriate for all travel scenarios from rain forests to deserts, cities to national parks and we highly recommend them for all travel. We always wear our light hikers on the plane and pack smaller shoes (flip flops/Keen Sandals, Crocs) in our baggage to keep the weight and bulk down.
Let’s take a further look at each layer below:
1. Base Layer
We find that wearing quick dry clothing makes washing/drying in the room much easier and helps with wicking sweat in hot climates.
A long sleeve base layer keeps you warm in cold climates, protected from UV rays in sunny climates and better protected from insect born diseases in humid climates.
Another option is to wear short sleeves and carry a UV sun protective over shirt (like this) or sleeves (like these).
If you plan to wash clothes in your room we highly recommend this ultralight clothes line by Sea to Summit. We also love this for drying swimsuits and towels on beach trips.
Baby
Kid
Toddler
Adult
2. Fleece/Sweater
Your sweater layer will get used countless times on your trip. Not only is a sweater integral for insulation while layering, it’s a great standalone piece for restaurants, planes and cool evenings.
We prefer a sweater fleece as opposed to a regular fleece because they are smooth on the outside which makes them easier to layer and they don’t collect dirt/fuzz as easily. If your down coat does not have a hood, your sweater layer absolutely should. Hoods prevent the need to pack beanies that can easily get lost.
Baby
Kid
Toddler
Adult
3. Down Jacket
Down jackets are truly a traveler’s best friend! When shopping for a down coat, look for 800 fill, water resistant, packability and a hood.
What does the ‘fill’ rating mean on down coats? It basically equates to how much air per cubic inch the fill can capture. The more air the warmer the coat. In our opinion 800 fill is the perfect blend of warmth and packability. We also look for coats with smaller quilting pockets. This prevents the fill from clumping together after being washed (make sure to use dryer balls when drying!).
We always prefer a hood that way you can forgo the extra beanie.
For babies, a bunting suit is the perfect way to keep them warm. Buntings can be used for younger toddlers as well. Once your child is walking independently, they can wear a similar down coat to what you wear.
As opposed to sweaters, down coats are easily compressed in a day pack and are excellent as a stand alone layer.
Baby
Kid
Toddler
Adult
4. Rain Coat
Rain coats are a great multi purpose item while traveling! Rain coats obviously protect you in wet conditions but, also provide excellent wind protection. When shopping for a rain coat there are three tiers in regards to price/quality.
Tier 1 – Top of the line, Gore-Tex
Tier 2 – High quality name brand, water proof for a time
Tier 3 – Least expensive but limited time use
Often times when shopping for outdoor gear or just in general, the middle tier offers the best value with great functionality. If you have the ability to purchase a tier 1 rain coat, take a look at Gortex options like this one: REI XeroDry GTX Jacket. For a great value, take a look at the REI Rainier Rain Jacket.
With both tier 2 and 3 rain coats you will likely need to waterproof treat your raincoat eventually. Tier 3 sooner than tier 2. This isn’t a big deal and will last quite a few wears after you treat.
When your child is a baby and not walking independently, they likely will not need rain protection because they will be in a carrier of some type. We always recommend baby backpack carriers for travel and most have optional rain covers that we recommend purchasing.
We also recommend you purchase a pair of rain pants for complete rain protection. Like rain coats, rain pants can also be used for wind protection and a little more insulation if needed.
Don’t forget your packable umbrella! Umbrellas are great for rain protection but are also wonderful for providing a bit of shade on a sunny day!
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Kid
Toddler
Adult
How to Layer while Traveling with Kids - Summary
In summary, traveling with your children can be the most rewarding experience! It can also be very stressful. By sharing our methodology for packing layers while traveling with kids, we hope to eliminate some of that stress! By packing a base layer, fleece/sweater, down coat and rain coat you are ready for any weather in any location anywhere around the world. So, pack up and plan your next adventure for you and your family!
About The Kid Packer
Here at The Kid Packer, we want to help you live your best life. A great baby backpack child carrier can help you do just that. After having used a child carrier backpack for over 1,500 miles of adventuring and exploring, we have a passion for them and know what makes a great pack that both you and your child will love. We hope our comprehensive research allows you to confidently find the right backpack for your needs!
