Traveling can be a great experience for any family but some people put it off when their children are young, for fear it will be too much trouble. Actually, getting kids adjusted to traveling when they are young will help them appreciate it even more when they are older. Also, it’s good to be prepared for those times when you have no choice but to travel. Today we are sharing a few tips on how to travel with young children to help you get prepared and headed out to your next family adventure.
Our Top Travel Tips
Be prepared
This is a great tip for any type of travel but with children, it’s even more important. Think about how you plan ahead for a trip to the supermarket with little ones. It’s going to be the same thing but even longer for a big trip. You need to try to anticipate their needs while traveling, as well as any potential problems or emergencies that could arrive so you can be prepared for anything and everything. I always have a “mom bag” with me when I travel even if I am not with my kids. Need a tissue? I’ve got. What about a band aide or hand sanitizer? I’m your girl! I also travel with several, I repeat, several portable chargers because they sky may fall of that iPad dies in the middle of a Disney movie.
Take your time
Allow extra time for everything when traveling with young children. You may need to stop more often for bathroom breaks or pull over the car because someone gets upset or needs to change. Even navigating through airports will take longer when you travel with young children. Whether you’re traveling for vacation or an emergency, just expect everything to take longer and try not to get stressed over it.
Pack backups
However many diapers and bibs you think you will need, double it. Seriously, when traveling with young children, you want to keep your luggage light but there are things that will be important to have extras of. You want to have enough diapers, wipes, clothing, cloths, blankets, bottles and pacifiers, and other items that your young child might need while away from home. And always travel with SNACKS. You may think you will have time to grab something at the airport but stuff happens and a fruit snack can provide so much peace and quiet. When we travel, every person has their own backpack full of books, snacks, and activities they enjoy.
Download travel apps
There are quite a few apps out there that can be very helpful to parents traveling with young children. Some will help you find great family-friendly restaurants, resources you need in the area, or some will work to entertain and distract your children during stressful times or to prevent stress. Do your research and pick out some great apps ahead of time.
Let them participate
Whatever the reason for your travels, if your children feel like they are taking part in what’s happening, they will be more pleasant and cooperative. Build that excitement so they have something to look forward to (and maybe be extra good for). When possible, you can let them help with things like the planning and packing. You could also get them a cheap or disposable camera to take pictures along the way. What are some other ways you could get your children involved?
With these tips in mind, you can make traveling, even with young children, easier than you ever thought possible. Are there any tips you would add to our list?
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