Planning a trip with children is anxiety-inducing for most parents.
Babies need diaper changes at the most inconvenient times, siblings bicker non-stop, and inevitably someone will leave their favorite toy at the last bathroom stop.
If you are looking to travel with kids soon, check out our sanity-saving tips and gadgets to make your route ahead a lot smoother.
Traveling with infants
While babies are often very adaptable to travel, there are some tips to make your life as a parent easier, including:
Tips for traveling with infants:
- Pack extra clothes for parents as well as baby to prepare for eventual spit-ups
- Purchase diapers, wet wipes, formula, baby food and other bulky items online and send them ahead to your destination
- Always pack extra bags for soiled clothes or trash
- A stroller and car seat are typically included free on a flight when traveling with an infant but be sure to double-check before buying your ticket
- Ensure your flight has an infant cot available or consider changing dates rather than flying without one.
- Ditch the diaper bag and instead use a backpack with multiple compartments; this leaves your hands free for other tasks
Gadgets for traveling with infants:
- A Diono stroller fan will keep your baby cool, provide white noise and keep flying insects away
- Microwavable sterilizing bags are ideal for zapping germs on the go
- Download a white noise app and start using it in the weeks before you travel
- An infant and child travel cot is relatively lightweight and provides a consistent sleeping environment for your child in any destination
Traveling with toddlers
Keeping your rambunctious toddler locked into a car seat or on an airplane for hours can be troublesome and nerve-wracking.
Here are a few of our tips and gadgets when traveling with toddlers.
Tips for traveling with toddlers
- If you are driving for a long distance, consider doing it at night if your child sleeps well in their car seat
- Go to a discount dollar store and wrap up a few presents that will keep your child entertained, like coloring books, magnets, and age-appropriate games
- Even if your child is toilet trained, don’t forget that wet wipes should be packed in the car, in your suitcase, and your day bag
Gadgets for traveling with toddlers
- Tablets and phones are often frowned upon, but they are excellent for keeping toddlers quiet and amused. However, avoid the noise by purchasing WIFI headphones designed for children and save your screen by investing in a quality case fit for little hands
- You know to pack an abundance of snacks when traveling with a toddler, but invest in a fun snack dispenser to avoid them spilling instantaneously
- Toddlers are known to bolt or hide which is the last thing you want in a busy airport or unfamiliar location. A toddler leash or harness will give you the peace of mind you need.
Traveling with babies and toddlers means adjusting your pace and pivoting your itinerary towards their schedule.
However, with a flexible mindset, a bit of planning, and investing in a few travel products, you are set for a fantastic ride.