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This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission when you shop through our links at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. “We love it” means it lives in our van or our house. “On our wishlist” means it's a popular pick we haven't tried ourselves yet.
pack smarter
Travel Gear
real recommendations from a real family
Luggage, the bags, and everything else that makes getting there a little easier with a big family.
Year-round favorites
provenWe love it.
The things that have earned a spot in our van and our house. Tried, tested, and genuinely loved.
We love it
$25–50
Drawstring cinch backpacks, 50 pack
This is my whole packing system for all my kids and it costs like twenty dollars. Every kid gets a color. Clothes go in, dirty clothes come out into the same bag, done.
Shop on AmazonWe love it
Under $25
Cozy Essential vacuum bags with the pump
Bedding and off-season clothes. We shrink it all down and shove it up in the top cubbies.
Shop on AmazonWe love it
Under $25
NISHEL hanging toiletry bag
It hangs on any hook, so nothing has to live on a wet campground counter.
Shop on AmazonWe love it
Under $25
Digital luggage scale
For the trips where we fly instead of drive. Fifty pounds sneaks up on you fast with a family this size.
Shop on Amazondreaming ofOn our wishlist.
Popular picks we haven't tried ourselves yet, and we can't wait to. Read the reviews before you buy.
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