Hack #1: Color-Coded Packing Cubes
Each family member gets their own color. Blue bags for dad, pink for mum, green for eldest, yellow for youngest. Sounds simple, but it's revolutionary.
Benefits: No more "whose jumper is this?" debates. Kids can find their own stuff. Unpacking at destinations takes 5 minutes instead of 30.
Hack #2: The "First Night" Bag
Everything needed for first night goes in ONE bag in the car boot: pajamas, toiletries, morning clothes, phone chargers. Never dig through the roof box after a long drive again.
Hack #3: Vacuum Bags for Bedding
Vacuum seal sleeping bags and spare bedding. Reduces volume by 60%. More space in the roof box means room for those "wouldn't it be nice to have..." items.
Hack #4: The "Return Journey" Compartment
Reserve space in the roof box specifically for dirty/wet items on the way home. We use large black bin bags. Keeps clean stuff clean, wet stuff contained.
Hack #5: Photo Your Packing
Take photos of your loaded roof box before closing it. Makes repacking for return journey ridiculously easy. Also helpful for insurance if anything happens.
Bonus Hack: The Essential Car Kit
Small bag that lives in car during trip with: wet wipes, bin bags, first aid, phone chargers, snacks, tissues. Accessible without stopping and unpacking.
What are your family road trip packing hacks? Share in the comments—we're always learning!
