Traveling with toddlers doesn’t have to be a stressful or a nightmare. Well effective planning can not only make your trip enjoyable but create long lasting family memories.
On our most recent trip to Aruba I came up with an easy and effective plan that can help with any new tot traveling for the first time or the next.
Here are my tried and true tips on how to prepare for your next road trip, cruise or plane ride. Good preparation for any trip requires planning. Putting a list together based on your itinerary plans as well as limitations is key and assists in not forgetting essential items that are beneficiary and necessary.
Book nonstop flights if you can, and around nap time if possible. Any small fiesta in the air can help based on hours of flight and destination. If you have a lay over make sure to let your toddler burn off energy and get all that extra energy out. Allow them to run in circles, make noise and relish freedom often is better to do before your flight and when in confined spaces or short gate times.
Make sure to get seats on the aisle. Toddlers can sometimes get restless, need to walk or have frequent potty breaks. If as a family you can take entire row do so, as this allows them to sit where they like and gives them the option for the window seat.
Plan for security. Typically when flying we take the light stroller as its easy to fold up at the last second and its your best friend when moving through the airport. Most airports allow you to check it in at the curb, ticket counter or gate right down to the jetway and leave at plane’s door before you board. In most cases this is allowed and is waiting for you upon landing.
Be sure to make your toddler wear appropriate clothing at the security checkpoint. Comfortable pants, shirts and slip on shoes for your travel are a must.
Prepare with extra supplies and toys that are easy to retrieve for the duration of your flight. Solid staples for us is one main toy, a stuffed animal, some coloring books, books, big puzzles and things that are easy to entertain. Change of clothes, hand sanitizer, snacks, and something for take off. I recommend a lollipop, a sippy cup with a straw or something they can suck on. I have linked a few of our favorites here for your reference.
Gleeporte Stacking Peg Board Set
Based on your destination and where you’re heading to, always bring items that comfort your child and they can play with at your destination. If we’re going on a cruise or to a tropical place we tend to bring bubbles, a ball that fits in your suitcase, beach toys and a bucket, or some small float. Bring their favorite snacks, juice or items your tot is comfortable with. This will assist in preparation for excursions or locations that don’t have some of your child’s creature comforts that remind them of home.
Always ensure when traveling with a toddler that you child proof items that could be potentially dangerous. Always bring hats, sunscreen and appropriate gear to protect them from the sun. When traveling we always bring a family emergency kit. Kids Benadryl, Tylenol, vitamins, bandaids, Cortisone cream, Neosporin, earplugs, bug spray, aloe and Dramamine for kids if needed. Making sure you have these items handy assists you in having them them on hand if needed.
Most importantly create memories that you and your family will have for a life time.
