We are leaving next week for a european trip with our children 7yrs & 5yrs - what do I really need to remember to pack? Thanks

If you forget something it is probably not essential. If you realy need it , you can probably buy it there.

Exception - extra pair of glasses if needed, childs favorite toy.

and medications.

Passports
Plane tickets or confirmation no.
Cash, credit card, ATM card
Prescription meds & eyeglasses

That it, the only true essentials IMO.

Hotel reservations and suitcases are next on the list.

universal packing list http://upl.codeq.info/index.jsp

One thing I did take, but not enough of, was Ibuprofen (Advil). After walking all day, we all had achey legs and feet. A hot bath and some Advil did the trick, but we ran out. We did buy some at the pharmacy (in Paris), but it must be slightly different because it made me feel wierd (kind of loopy).

Also, take umbrellas. We used ours quite a bit.

On my trip this spring my feet swelled up on the plane ride over and my feet were killing me the entire two weeks. I bought a pair of shoes in England, but the damage was already done. I wished that I had brought my Down Unders -- they are topless! They would have saved my feet and I could have walked a great deal more. Check them out at www.down-unders.com.

Things that will make the kids feel secure and entertained: snacks, games, small blanket and pillow of their own, toys.

A small backpack for each of them is a great idea mentioned on the other thread.

Antiperspirant. In France. Out in the countryside. In August.

Lesson learned.