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If you are a busy parent you won’t doubt the fact that organization and having the right “tools” is important when it comes to going places with your young children. Packing up all the gear can be a serious time and energy drain, so here are some easy options to help you keep your sanity while still getting out of the house with everything you need:

• Diaper duffels were invented because they are needed; they make life with a young one so much easier. Many come with a changing pad that can easily be wiped clean, and some even have a cosmetic bag in a matching pattern for Mom. Inside there is typically plenty of room for extra clothes and toys, and many also come with a good spot to stash a bottle as well.
• Keep a bag packed with necessities for quick trips out so you don’t have to pack up a new one every time you go somewhere. Re-stock it when you come home and switch out toys periodically. You’ll thank yourself for taking the time to do it.
• Long trips mean bringing basic first aid and emergency numbers. Either keep a kit in the car or the medicine chest, and tuck important numbers such as the doctor or babysitter inside in case you need them.
• Keep spare items in the trunk of the car — just in case. A small bag with an extra diaper and a few wet wipes can make your day under the right circumstances. A spare baby blanket is another good item to have around as well.

It can be a little bit scary when your child spends a night away from home. You’ll want to be sure that they are safe, and that they have everything they need for the trip, whether it is a camp or just a sleepover. Think ahead a little bit and you won’t have any trouble getting all the right things together for them. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Kids duffel bags come in handy when it comes to packing. Get one with a unique design or pattern so they won’t mix it up with someone else’s bag. Look for super features like reflective strips and zippers with easy pull design for little fingers.
• When kids go to camp, take a permanent marker and write their name on everything from shoes to towels.
• Make sure that children either know emergency numbers by heart, or that they have them written down and stashed in a few different places in case they are needed.
• Tuck a “special surprise” inside the bag for your child. It can be a note, a small snack or even a picture of the family. You may want to consider sending your child’s pillow or favorite blanket along with them for the trip. If they sleep with a particular stuffed animal or toy, that might also be a good thing to pack.
• Make sure to include at least one heavier piece of clothing, even in the summer. A sweatshirt can come in handy if a child is swimming all day and the sun goes down before he dries off.