15 Tips for Traveling With Kids

By theadmin

Crashing waves, sandcastles, and boardwalk strolls mark moments your family can cherish for a lifetime. But children add an element of stressful unpredictability to traveling.

Babies are the easiest travel buddies, since they’re the most portable, and they sleep the most. It gets a little trickier moving into the toddler and preschool years. Attention spans are short, so keeping little ones engaged is key.

No matter where your travels take you, it’s important to plan ahead. You can’t guarantee smooth sailing when you have pint-size travel partners, but a little advanced preparation helps.

In the Airport

Getting through airport security and the ensuing long flight can be a hassle, but it helps to plan ahead.

Get to the airport early. You just never know.
Familiarize yourself with kid-specific TSA guidelines and plan appropriately for what’s permitted through checkpoint.
Have children wear their own backpacks with their carry-on items.
Keep all valuables and liquid items in your carry-on luggage so children don’t have to worry about taking items out of their bags.
Good travel outfits are key for streamlining security and for staying comfy during flights. Think uncomplicated outfits and extra layers.
Avoid shoes with laces as they can become a hassle to remove and keep tied.
Bathroom breaks and diaper changes are key before getting on the plane. The boarding process can be long, as can taxiing on the tarmac.

In the Air

Getting through the flight might present several challenges too, from ear-popping to boredom.

Treat hurty ears with gum to chew or hard candy to suck on for kids who are old enough.
Feeding babies a bottle can help; so can making sure that they’re awake for the landing.
If your child is sensitive to air pressure, you can place hot paper towels inside cups and then cover the ears with the cups to soothe discomfort. Flight attendants are often able to accommodate a request for warm towels and cups.
Pack healthy snacks, reading materials, coloring books, and other activities without a lot of parts and pieces that can get lost. Don’t bring noisy toys aboard the plane unless they come with headphones.

On the Road

Pack by day instead of by person; this can help you stay organized and avoid lots of packing and unpacking.
Pack all swimsuits and pool stuff in an easy-to-grab bag; same with pajamas and everything needed for bedtime.
Bring quiet, independent activities such as coloring books and electronic tablets, and play games to keep kids engaged and help pass the time.
Take plenty of breaks on the road. It’s all about the journey!

You might have to do a little extra planning when taking younger family members along, but it’ll be worth it.