The last long weekend of summer 2021 is upon us. September came in strong, and fall is looming heavily in the air. This weekend, everyone is heading to the cottage for a last hurrah which, if you’re like me, means last minute packing for you, your kids, your dog and double checking that your husband packed a sweatshirt. They say it can’t be done, but I guarantee that you can pack your entire house in under two hours. I know, I know, it sounds ludicrous, but here are my tips for how to pack for the cottage in under two hours.
Write Lists
Lists play a large part of my life in many different veins. I honestly don’t know how I would exist without my notebook, my lists and crossing off each mundane activity as it gets done. When it comes to packing for the cottage, having a list makes everything a lot less daunting. I make a list for each child, myself and kitchen items. Here are examples:
5-Year-Old
- PJ
- Underwear
- T-Shirts
- Shorts
- Swimsuit
- Sweatshirt
- Sweatpants
- Toothbrush
3-Year-Old
- Diapers
- Swim Diapers
- Swimsuit
- PJ
- Sleepsack
- T-Shirt
- Shorts
- Boots & Bar (For his clubbed feet)
- Sweatshirt
- Sweatpants
- Socks
- Toothbrush
Kitchen
- Bottles
- Formula
- Baby Cereal
- Granola Bars
- Squeeze Packs
- Water Bottles
Use Too Many Bags
Each of my kids has a bag with the first letter of their name embroidered on the side. They are so handy for cottage trips. I also have a bag for the dog, a bag for kitchen items and a dedicated electronics bag. With my list in hand, I go into each room and fill the bag, ticking items off as I go.
Distract The Kids
This is key. It is tough to parent while on a packing mission. This is the perfect opportunity for screen time. With your kids otherwise distracted, you can focus on the task at hand.
Divide The Labour
The deal is, I pack for the cottage, and my husband loads the car. Once each bag is packed, the lists have been fulfilled, I place all items by the front door. My job is complete and he uses his Tetris skills to fill the trunk. A division of labour is essential to not only packing for the cottage, but a successful partnership in general. Together, we can do anything.
Read more of Natalie’s content on The Adventures of Natty P & Co, or follow her on Instagram @_nattyp
