Even a day trip with the family requires proper preparation. As you know, I am a list-making-fool. A completed checklist makes me happy. In my world, a list helps everyone stay on track and things to run smoothly. Checking off things as they are packed is key. A list will alleviate over packing, or packing too lightly and eliminate forgetting important items.
Yesterday, we became members of the Jacksonville Zoo Society. (Merry Christmas!) It was a gorgeous day here in Florida with temperatures in the high 70’s and the sun-a-shinin’. With it being a Federal holiday, we figured the out- doors was where we needed to be. Making plans the night before didn’t leave much time for planning and in addition, this was our very first time to the zoo with our son as a toddler. My list-to-make was unclear. This trip(and checklist) would be a trial run for our first zoo experience.
The first toddler zoo experience was a hit with a few hiccups. These small bumps in the road will be fixed and added to the list for a smooth sailing on our second trip. After people-watching all day, I gathered a lot of good ideas which added to my normal travel check list. Here is my updated zoo checklist.
Preparation:
- View website prior to visit – make sure to checkout all fees, attractions, parking details, event times.
- Buy tickets online (look for discount promo code using Google search or site website discounts)
- Download and print site map – make notes for future use
- Make a tentative plan – maximize your time by having a base plan according to event times and hours
- Pack bag
- Load cooler – which you will leave in car
- Place water bottles in freezer (pour out 3 tablespoons of water before placing in freezer).(Use for cooling cooler).
To Pack:
- Micro first aid kit
- Disposable ponchos
- Stroller or wagon and stroller saddle bags or wagon bag
- Sunblock
- Bug spray (I like sos by Avon)
- Small towel rolled tightly in a zip lock (1 per person)
- Swim diaper (1 per diapered child)
- Wristlet wallet
- Camera (or use your phone to save space)
- Medication (always pack a small headache and nausea medication just in case)
- Change of clothing rolled tightly in a ziploc bag for each family member – left in car
- Snacks (in a reusable lunch bag or reusable containers – 1 per person)
- Diaper, wipes, antibacterial wipes (4 diaper per day – per diapered child)
- Binoculars
- Ball caps/hats
- Clear pencil case to seperate like-items together for an easy find and reach – A MUST HAVE
Efficient packing is key to a stress free day. Heres to enjoying your day trip away from home carefree.
Katie Girl
