Traveling with toddlers feels like you are preparing for some kind of Olympics. They need everything: snacks, diapers, favorite toys, backup toys, and possibly their entire crib.
So, when traveling for the first time, you often get anxious when your kids start crying on the plane and passengers are staring at you. According to the survey, 45% of parents fear other passengers’ criticism when their kids misbehave during travel.
Now, with a dozen smooth trips and countless compliments from fellow parents facing the same challenge, I’m here to share what worked for me.
How to Travel With a Toddler? Step-by-Step Guide for New Parents
To make things more easy for you, we will categorize toddler travel hacks into 3 sections.
Section#1: Before the trip
1. Don’t board early
Skip early boarding and let your toddler burn off some energy at the airport instead. Board last to keep their time stuck in the seat as short as possible.
2. Book the window seat
Another tip is to keep them busy while on the flight. So, choose a window seat and let your kids see the dynamic clouds outside the plane. It will keep them happy and engaged so they won’t bother anyone.
3. Don’t overpack
When new parents start traveling with kid for the first time, they think they have to carry everything. Instead, focus on versatile items that can serve multiple purposes. Bundle feeding and diapering essentials of toddlers in travel-sized packs.
Section#2: During the journey
A 2024 survey found that letting kids play in the airplane aisle is seen as the most unacceptable behavior on a flight. Surprisingly, people consider it worse than getting drunk or eating food with a strong smell while flying.
You don’t want to blame you or your kid for their discomfort for sure. So, keep these tips in mind during the journey with kids.
4. Arrange travel activities for toddlers
As a responsible mom, you have to be mindful of their screen time. Keep them entertained by letting them play with toys during the trip.
- Carry interactive toys with you. Like, reusable sticker books, small puzzles, magnetic drawing boards for doodling, and counting or color games.
- Play with flashcards, glow sticks, and character toys.
- Prepare a question jar for them and ask silly and funny questions on the journey. These questions can be serious as well to promote mindful family discussions.
5. Take safety precautions
No matter whether you are traveling via train, plane, or car, you have to be extra cautious when it comes to the safety of kids.
If traveling by car, ensure the car seat is appropriate for your toddler’s age.
If traveling by plane, make sure your toddler stays buckled during turbulence or whenever the seatbelt sign is on.
If traveling by train, always keep your toddler clear of train doors, especially as they open or close.
6. Manage the ear pressure of kids
Get your toddler to eat or drink during takeoff and landing to ease ear pressure. It is the most uncomfortable thing for a kid. Snacks like lollipops or gummy bears can help relieve it.
Section#3: At the destination
7. Make the destination toddler-safe
Choose family-friendly hotels or rentals that provide amenities like cribs, high chairs, and play areas. Plus, inspect the hotels for heavy furniture, electrical sockets, and sharp corners.
Related article: Tips for Traveling With Toddlers: A Guide for Parents
8. Adjust plans based on your toddler’s mood
Toddlers, especially if they are strong-willed, may show strong mood swings. So, keep your plans flexible. If they’re showing signs of frustration, take a break and let them play in a nearby park.
10-Point Checklist for Traveling With Toddlers
Keep this checklist handy when packing traveling essentials with a toddler.
- Travel documents: Toddler’s passport (if required), birth certificate, etc.
- Essentials bag: Diapers, wipes, diaper cream, snacks, sippy cups, and bottled water.
- Entertainment items: Toys, books, a tablet, headphones, etc.
- Snacks and meals: Healthy, mess-free snacks, including crackers, fruit pouches, and cereal.
- First-aid kit: Fever reducer, antihistamines, bandages, thermometer, and any prescription medications.
- Clothing and weather gear: Hats, sunscreen, or jackets.
- Sleep essentials: Portable cribs, nightlight, or white noise machine.
- Comfort items: Blanket, small pillow or travel neck support, stuffed animal, and pacifier.
- Safety gear: Car seat, travel harness, toddler leash, or wrist strap.
- Stroller or carrier: Compact stroller or baby carrier for easy mobility.
Conclusion
There are tons of tips for traveling with a toddler. Since every kid is different, it’s important to tailor these suggestions to fit your child’s unique needs and personality. Traveling with toddlers can be challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family.