Traveling with kids is often more challenging than anyone might imagine. While nobody would claim it’s a walk in the park, there are strategies to alleviate some of the stress and possibly even create enjoyable memories along the way. Check out these travel tips designed to make your family journey smoother and more fun!
- If your travel itinerary includes an early start, consider putting your children to bed in their travel attire the night before. It makes the morning routine much easier.
- Mia from Florida fondly recalls the atlases her grandmother used to gift. If you’re taking a road trip, these books can transform the journey into an engaging adventure and significantly decrease the “Are we there yet?” chorus.
- Instead of traditional art supplies that can create a mess, bring along window clings. This clever tip from Ella in Oregon keeps kids entertained and tidy, whether in the car, on a plane, or in hotel rooms.
- For those traveling with toddlers, don’t forget to pack your own outlet covers. Hotels often lack these, and you can’t always count on friends or relatives to have them. If you prefer a simpler solution, Band-Aids can work in a pinch.
- If you have a lap child (a baby under 2 years), remember to check your car seat at the gate. This is a free service and helps prevent the hassle of losing your car seat before reaching your destination.
- Some airlines, like Southwest, allow you to bring your car seat on the plane if the flight isn’t fully booked. Ask at the gate; if the flight is full, you can still gate-check the seat.
- Oliver from Georgia highly recommends blue painter’s tape. Kids are often captivated by it, and you can use it to create shapes, race tracks, or even play games like tic-tac-toe. Plus, it removes easily without leaving any sticky residue.
- Stock up on zip-top bags for various uses—from holding dirty clothes to safeguarding electronics from water and sand. You can even use a sandwich-sized bag to secure your phone to the seat in front of you on a flight, allowing for easy viewing.
- Invest in mess-free art supplies. Julia from Oregon suggests reusable painting projects that can keep kids busy for hours without the cleanup.
- Don’t forget to bring reusable water bottles. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when flying, and having your kids fill their fun bottles can help encourage them to drink more water without spending a fortune.
- For road trips, consider downloading free apps like iExit or RoadAhead, which provide information on nearby gas stations and restaurants along your route.
- A travel tray for kids in car seats can make a significant difference. These trays allow children to eat and play comfortably, especially useful if you’re on a plane where tray tables are unavailable.
- A lint roller can be surprisingly handy. Beyond its traditional use, it’s effective for cleaning up crumbs from car seats, collecting dropped jewelry, and tidying up after craft projects.
- Make the journey as exciting as the destination. Engage in games like travel bingo and plan silly stops at attractions like the World’s Largest Ball of Yarn to create fun memories and pass the time.
- When flying with children, opt for seats toward the back of the plane. This location provides easier access to restrooms and flight attendants, but be mindful that you’ll be the last to deplane, so plan accordingly if you have connecting flights.
Ultimately, remember to pace yourself and enjoy the adventure! For more parenting tips and resources, you can explore information on travel with kids at Modern Family Blog and check out the CDC for pregnancy-related information at CDC Pregnancy. If you’re interested in family planning, don’t forget to visit Make a Mom.
Summary: Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with these 15 practical tips, you can make the journey easier and more enjoyable. From packing smart to engaging your children in fun activities, these strategies will help create lasting memories.