My family doesn’t groan anymore when I run through my verbal checklist as we leave the driveway and travel the first few blocks on an overnight or weeklong adventure. Over the years, each of them (including my wife, Rita) have said “Oops! Stop. We gotta go back.” 

I no longer have to say, “See — aren’t you glad for my vacation checklist.” They know I’m right. It’s one of those rare, small moments I get to savor while claiming victory for dads everywhere.

As a public service to men and their families, following is my unofficial, not-yet-patented vacation checklist.  Like most advice for parents, take what you like, leave what you don’t, and make it your own.  Here it is in no mandatory order:
Say it fast before you get too far from home. The list varies depending on destination — beach vacations vs. out-of-town weddings vs. camping trips.  The list also comes in handy as we leave hotels and beach houses heading for home. You’ll notice that the more important items are mentioned early and many of the items kind of go in pairs.  Once you start mentioning items that you can pick up cheap at any drugstore, then you can stop talking.
Try it on your next trip.  Sooner or later, you’ll be a hero for rescuing an entire journey. The one potential problem is that the family starts to expect it. I am just waiting for the day when I rattle off my vacation checklist and happen to forget one item, and that one item – of course – is the one that is forgotten.  Somehow, I’ll be the one taking the blame.

Cell phones
Chargers
Wallets
Purses
Glasses
Prescriptions
Sunglasses
Laptops
Computer cords
Keys
Watches
Maps
Directions
Credit cards
Coupons
Shoes
Socks
Belts
Hanging clothes
Shaving kits
Sunscreen
Swimsuits
Towels
Hats
Gifts
Pillows
Blankets
“Rags” That’s my daughter’s stuffed dog.
Deodorant
Girls’ stuff
Clean underwear
Reading material
Munchies for
the car

This article is an excerpt from Payleitner’s latest book 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad. Enter for a chance to win the book by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it