I was recently asked about my favorite kid-friendly travel items, and that sparked the idea for this next post about traveling with children.
Traveling with the family is fun, but it can also be overwhelming. Long gone are the days of just tossing a few belongings into a suitcase and heading out on the open road. It’s important to be prepared and to keep kids happy and healthy during family adventures.
Whether traveling via plane, train or car, the following is a guide on creating the ultimate travel survival kit for minimal stress and maximum fun:
JUST IN CASE…
- Pre-measure formula into bottles and carry a room temperature bottle of water to mix on the go.
- Be prepared for a mess – snacks, diapers, spit-up, etc. – with a small trash bag, wipes, hand sanitizer (for the adults), spare water, tissues, bib and a blanket.
- Even if you are traveling by plane, a car seat can double as a feeding chair or nap location. If you’re staying at a hotel, call ahead for a crib for your room.
- Bring along a spare set of clothes for everyone (parents included)
KEEPING YOUR BABY OR TODDLER ENTERTAINED
- Bring music, mobiles, bubbles and books, stuffed animal, play mirror and foam shapes that will “stick” to the car seat. In an airplane, purchase headphones for music and rest them on your child’s shoulders instead of over their ears.
- Use “links” to keep toys within your child’s reach.
- Play window games – count the signs, trucks or red lights. “I Spy” a blue car, a white truck and other objects you can see while moving.
- Bring a laptop desk for drawing with paper and crayons.
- Play “I’m thinking of an animal.” Provide age-appropriate hints to help your child guess a particular animal.
CAR TRAVEL
- Plan for an active stretch. At a rest-stop break or a playground, let the children walk or toddle for 20 or so minutes before climbing back in the car.
- Attach a mirror to the front passenger visor so you can see and interact with your toddler without having to spin around.
- Buckle up a toy bin right next to the children so they can help themselves – books, links, stuffed animals and puppets.
- Create a car-ride checklist – make a picture itinerary of landmarks you will see along the way.
- Ask your child to keep score – gas prices, mileage — or count out toll money.
PLANE TRAVEL
- In an airplane, let children walk down the aisle periodically at their own pace.
- Airports can be a bustling place. Consider checking your luggage at the curb. This way you can focus on your little one’s needs without the hassle of luggage in tow.
- A blanket can make a quick play space in any lobby, airport, etc.
Tags: Family vacation, Summer travel, Traveling with children
