STRESS-FREE TRAVEL WITH TODDLERS
To travel with toddlers is an adventure in itself—that demands much more than average preparation, patience, and humor. Whether you’re taking off for the weekend or embarking on a monthlong international holiday, knowing how to keep your little one comfortable and entertained is the golden rule for the good time of all family members. Here are the most recent expert tips to help you navigate your tour with your wee travel buddy by your side.
1. PLAN AROUND NAPTIME & MEAL SCHEDULES
Toddlers live by routine, so it will be handy to plan your trip according to their nap and meal times as well. Try to schedule flights or long rides when they usually sleep. If you can book pit stops or layovers for snack time, that’s a plus. Less crankiness, more smiles.
Tip: Pack some of your toddler’s favorite snacks to keep them going and happy. Simple things like fresh fruit, crackers, and other easy-to-eat finger foods work best. Do some prep for the hotel stay at hand.
2. CHOOSE TODDLER-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS
Accommodations vary in how well they meet the needs of toddlers. Look for hotels or vacation rentals that are kid-friendly, with access to amenities such as cribs and play areas as well as rooms that have been baby-proofed. Some resorts go the extra mile by offering daycare services and special programs designed for young children who might want to relax a little or enjoy some specific activities while mom and dad catch up on some much-needed rest.
Tip: Read other families’s reviews before booking to see how family-friendly the place is with young children. It is also a good idea to call ahead and request a crib or second bed.
3. PACK SMART WITH A TODDLER TRAVEL KIT
Packing for a toddler calls for some strategy. Make a “Toddler Travel Kit” so you can pick up everything that you may need along the trip. This kit should contain:
- Diapers, wipes, and a changing pad.
- Alternate outfits (things can get messy quickly!).
- Small toys and books for fun and entertainment.
- Tablet pre-loaded with activity and entertainment appropriate for toddlers.
- Medication kit for little ones in a first-aid kit.
Tip: Bring a love item, such as their favorite stuffed animal or blanket, so your toddler can feel safe and secure in new environments.
4. PLAYING BY DIVERSIONS
Toddlers can get bored quickly, so keep a variety of distractions at hand. Invest in some new toys or books that they haven’t seen before—these will feel like a special treat and keep them occupied longer. You can also use simple items like stickers, magnetic puzzles, or an Etch A Sketch to keep them busy during flights or car rides.
Tip: Download a few toddler-friendly apps or movies on a tablet, but keep an eye on screen time. Use these sparingly for emergencies only when all else fails.
5. DRESS COMFORTABLY AND IN LAYERS
Traveling with a toddler is about comfort. Dress your child in soft, breathable clothing that allows him to move about easily. Airports, planes, and different climates can be really hot, or cold, and layer up for this reason. This way, you can easily shed or add layers as you need to.
Tip: Choose slip-on shoes for your toddler, which makes airport security checks and quick changes so much easier.
6. BE READY FOR DELAYS AND REMAIN CALM
The chances are very high that a flight may be delayed, and it’s even more frustrating when a toddler is involved. Prepare yourselves mentally for these delays and try to keep calm if things are changed suddenly. Your toddler senses your mood—if you are stressed out, they are also going to be stressed out.
Tip: Take some small new surprises, such as a new toy or a favorite snack, so that you can pull one out if the flight is delayed or during any tantrums.
7. TAKE BREAKS AND LET THEM EXPLORE
Children are naturally curious. Rather than rushing through airports or some sort of attraction, take extra time at most to allow for exploration. Walk around during layovers as much as you can, and choose attractions with open areas in which your child can run around and stretch their legs.
Tip: Create a “toddler adventure map” for destinations like zoos, aquariums, or parks. Marking out areas where your little munchkin can run amok can be super fun and really help you prepare for the journey.
8. PRE-BOOK WHAT YOU CAN
The fewer logistics you need to handle on the day of travel, the better. Book everything in advance, from airport transfers to tickets for attractions. Pre-booking means less time spent standing in line, which can be frustrating for toddlers (and their parents).
Tip: If your child is flying with you, it is better to invest in a seat, even though they are below two years old and can technically fly for free. The additional space will make all the difference between long flights.
9. KEEP HIGHEST HYGIENE AND SANITATION
Hygiene is a must, especially since you are accompanied by a toddler. And much more so during this travel period because traveling will also include going into crowded places like the airport and the airplane. Pack hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, and tissues. Clean any surfaces that your toddler touches. Don’t forget to wash their hands often.
Tip: Carry a small spray bottle of water and a microfiber cloth for quicker hand or sticky surface cleaning.
10. RELAX AND ENJOY THE JOURNEY
Traveling, therefore, with a toddler in tow may not always be perfect. Yet, it can be a very rewarding experience full of memories to treasure. Focus on becoming more of an explorer about the journey itself as part of the adventure because traveling with a toddler may not always go according to plan.
Tip: Document the journey with photos. Your toddler may not remember all of it, but the memories for you will be precious indeed.
These tips make an otherwise chaotic experience into a treasure for the family. Equipped with good planning and in the right state of mind, you are ready to take on the world hand-in-hand with your little one and create memories to be treasured for this life. Happy travels!
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