Motherhood

Mom Tips: 5 Steps to Getting Out The House In 15 Minutes or Less

Mom tips for getting out of the house in 15 minutes or less

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All opinions are mine alone. #HuggiesForHolidays #CollectiveBias

Ok Moms, lets talk getting out of the house in a reasonable amount of time. How do you accomplish this? I almost have it down to a science and today I am sharing my best mom tips on how to get out of the house in 15 minutes or less with kids including 5 things to keep in your car essentials kit. You know how crazy things can be during the holidays. Don’t let a lack of preparation ruin your holiday fun.

Prior to kids, my car essentials were simple: Extra shoes, makeup, earrings and a snack. That’s it. Then I had Little Z and things changed but it wasn’t until I had Baby E that I figured out the necessities that should remain in the car. Now mamas let me tell, save for a few steps the night before or early in the morning, I can get myself and the kids out of the house in under 15 minutes. Honestly there were many times I cancelled plans because by the time we were all ready (if you could call it that) I was over it. Here are my steps to less stress and enjoying your family outings any time of the year but especially during the holiday season.

Essentials Car Kit for Kids

Let’s start with the real game changer! If you do nothing else, follow this list of 5 essentials to keep in the car at all times.

5 Must Haves

Outwear
Change of clothes
Diaper and Huggies Clutch ‘n Clean Wipes
Snacks
Entertainment

Bonus Items

Baby Gear
Trash Bags
Blankets

Instructions

Pick your preferred storage bag(s) or box.

Place least used items at the bottom: Blankets which are good for any type of weather and also for impromptu picnics.

Keep a change of clothes, underwear and even nightclothes in your kit. Be sure to change out the clothes according to season.

Pack snacks and water in storage bags and add to your kit. Keep 2-3 entertaining items per child including books, dolls, crayons and paper in your kit.

Add in diapers and wipes that you pre-packed in a storage bag. I always keep Huggies Clutch ‘n Clean Wipes in my kit and in my every day bag. Why? The are a lifesaver. From diaper duty, clean up of sticky hands and even wiping up spills. And guess what moms? They are pretty amazing at removing makeup. YUP!

Not to mention how cute they are! I can’t say all baby supplies are cute so these are a must if you love a little stylish flair in your bag. Oh and of course they are dermatologically tested and mom approved. Huggies wipes are the #1 brand choice of moms.

Add in spare trash bags which are great for keeping the car clean and getting rid of stinky diapers or for using with your travel potty. I also keep a stroller, a baby carrier and a travel potty in the car at all times. Trunk not big enough? That’s ok, make sure your essentials kit is in there no matter what. It will save you from having to constantly pack up your baby bag with extras.

Prepare Clothes

Prep all outfits for your outing. Make sure you check the weather first then pick out all clothes, iron and set-up for dressing. When I say prep, I mean for everyone and everything including underwear, socks and shoes. I do this for the kids, myself and my husband. By the way, women taking longer than men to get ready is a myth! I can have myself and the kids ready, car packed and more while my hubs will still be figuring it out.

Meal Plan

Does your outing require you bring meals? If so plan them out, cook and place in travel containers. If not then plan your morning or afternoon meals and have them ready so everyone can eat and then head out soon after.

Look Up Directions

Yes I know we live in the era of GPS but I can’t tell you how many times my GPS had me confused while on the road. It is definitely better to look up your routes in advance.

Kid Prep

Besides clothes, you may need to do other prep with your kids. For us it is combing hair. I make sure to have Zoe’s hair combed and I pray she keep her scarf on through the night. Even so, a quick brush up is better than having to do a full hair combing job.

Want to know where I grabbed my cute Huggies Clutch ‘n Clean kits from? You can grab your Clutch ‘n Clean Wipes at a CVS near you. Pick up two packs. One for your car kit and the other to go in your baby bag or in the arm rest of your car. #CVSHuggiesHeroes

Packing up the kids, any perishables and locking up your house should take no more than 15 minutes when you follow these simple tips and keep your essentials kit in your trunk.