apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

you only need enough clothing for 7-10 days, it's easier and cheeper to launder the clothing later, than bring a ton. It also depends on where you're going to, how well you know that place, and where you're staying (I suppose you can cook/wash/etc at the place).

Dress in layers, stuff that matches each other (same color family, etc.) For me, I go black/white/red/blue/jeans. Limit shoes--walkable, durable, adaptable. Throw in a scarf or some fabulous accessories to dress stuff up if you need it. Get a small bottle of Woolite (and go with trial sizes of other products, too--I have made one last 2 weeks.) Depends on where you are, too--toiletries in Germany were very reasonable, in Paris not at all. (Half size bottle of Pantene was 11 euros.)

Good luck!

Ah, I'm facing the same problem. I am packing 7-10 days of outfits for my 4-year old plus some extra tees, socks and undies just in case.

I'm placing complete outfits for him - shirt, shorts, socks, undies and pjs in individual gallon ziploc bags to keep suitcase organized.

For me, I try to pack in outfits. I plan two shirts or so for every pair of pants/shorts/capris. A couple of dresses that are casual enough for day but decent for dinner. One nicer dress (lightweight so not hard to add). A couple of pairs of multipurpose sandals and one pair of puma-type shoes. Stylish yet light and and comfy for extra long days. Don't forget swimsuit coverup if needed.

I threw in swimsuits, hats, light wind breakers for everyone.

I also threw in a small backpack for day trip outings.

In our carryon, I am packing a few cheap new toys/books/art projects for distractions on the long flight as well as snacks (pudding cup, applesauce, milk boxes, individual container of pb, bread, yogurt, fruit); dvd player; extra clothes for child and extra tee for me; warm socks; travel size of basic toiletries (toothpaste/brush, face wash, moisturizer, sunblock, handcream) so we can freshen up on flights/train rides. I also downloaded a couple of (free) games onto my blackberry for emergencies and am bringing dvd/berry chargers on board as many planes has power outlets. I also packed the camera in there.

I threw a plastic travel pouch of regular-size toiletries into our suitcase. I don't want to hunt for stuff while I'm there - except for kids wash/shampoo which is often organic/otherwise better abroad. I try to pack all toiletries the day before and then "live out of" the pack for a day before I leave - this helps spot light what I'm missing.

I also packed small tylenol for me and child, a few bandaids and travel disinfectant, pepto bismol tables.

That pretty much covers it. If I think of anything else, I will add. But as far as I recall, this is my standard list and it's gotten me through numerous lengthy international trips during my son's 4-years so far ;-)