The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Children: Real-World Family Travel Tips That Actually Work
For sure, travel is a new thing when it comes to kids. From navigating airports with strollers to entertaining little ones on long flights, family travel has its own woes and rewards.
That said, strategic preparation combined with some perennially useful advice can ensure that traveling with kids becomes a bonding experience for the entire family.
Read about real-life family travel hacks that truly work in this complete guide, perfect for taking the edge off of those trips with the kiddos.
Travel Tips for Infants and Toddlers:
Traveling with infants and toddlers requires careful planning and consideration of their needs. Here are some tips to make the journey easier:
Use the Right Travel Stroller:
Opt for a lightweight and maneuverable stroller for easy navigation through airports and other travel destinations. Consider investing in a stroller with a bag for protection during gate-checking.
Baby-Wear:
Keep your hands free by using a baby carrier or sling while traveling. It’s convenient for navigating airports and theme parks, and it allows for easy access for breastfeeding.
Consider a Doona:
The Doona car seat stroller is a versatile option for travel, serving as both a car seat and a stroller. It’s compact and convenient for flights, cab rides, and everyday use.
Get a Car Seat Just for Travel:
Consider purchasing a lightweight and portable car seat like the Cosco Scenera or the WAYB Pico specifically for travel. These seats are easy to transport and install, making them ideal for travel.
Use a Car Seat on the Plane:
If your child is comfortable in a car seat, consider bringing it on board the plane for added safety and comfort during the flight.
Sign Your Kids Up for Frequent Flyer Programs:
Maximize your child’s travel rewards by enrolling them in frequent flyer programs from a young age. Accumulate miles for future family adventures.
Pack Strategically:
Organize your carry-on with essential items for both yourself and your baby, including food, diapers, extra outfits, and entertainment. Pack enough essentials to last at least 24 hours in case of delays or unexpected circumstances.
Travel Tips for Older Children:
Traveling with older children presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. Here are some tips to keep them engaged and entertained during the journey:
Board Last:
Use early boarding for families, maybe board one parent first to get prepared while the other waits with kids outside until last minute so you will minimize the time in tight quarters.
Pack Snacks:
Tuck into a few snacks to keep the hunger pangs at bay (for both yourself and the kids) Bring a large selection of items for different tastes and any dietary restrictions.
Bring Entertainment:
Children of this age group can be kept engaged throughout the journey with books, games, tablets and electronic devices. Order them in advance for long flights or road trips that will leave the kids bored senseless after mile one.
Involve Them in Planning:
Involve older children in planning how to spend vacation time; give them some choice of activities and attractions. It allows them to be a part of the trip and builds excitement without you having to say a word about it.
Set Realistic Expectations:
Give older kids before the trip a heads up about potential adventures, be excited to share your itinerary and of course talk about what might arise that could feel like bumps in the road. Get them ready for long travel, new places and possible culture shock so that they know what to expect before the trip.
General Travel Tips for Families:
However, for every age group there are some general travel tips that each family member should keep in their mind. Some extra tips to make your journey seamless and enjoyable:
Plan Ahead:
Find out what your location has to offer, and come up with a rough plan for the day you go; last-minute chaos is pressure waiting to happen. Book your accommodations, transportation, and activities to score availability during high-demand travel times.
Pack Light:
Kids also mean a lot of gear—though you can lighten up with the right mindset, too. Bring only what you need and possibly rent large items like cribs or strollers once you get there.
Be Flexible:
Since you are dealing with kids who can be unpredictable, flexibility is the key in these situations. You have to be ready to roll with the punches and love some spontaneity when it comes to traveling at large with your family.
Take Breaks:
Giving yourself the leeway to have so much downtime in a day was critical in making this trip restful and restorative. Make sure to arrange regular meal, snack and playtime breaks so everyone stays happy and alert.
Stay Safe:
When traveling, always be sure to have your children in eyesight and out of reach from dangerous people or strange things. Pair this with child safety accessories like harnesses, wristbands and GPS trackers to give yourself even more peace of mind when you’re out and about.
Conclusion:
It might be tempting to lighten your load by leaving the kids at home or in a faraway playgroup, but the extraordinary experiences you have together will create memories that bond you as a family. Hopefully these family travel tips will help you when you are out and about in the real world with your little ones to craft experiences and make memories.
Travel which you might be in a new location, have a different culture or even just going out of your normal environment with the family time they provide immense chances for development, exploration and bonding. So grab your backpack, round up the family, and set out an unforgettable journey!
