Traveling With Children? Check Out These 9 Simple Tips
Vacations are something everyone in the family can look forward to. At the same time, it's also one of the biggest causes of stress and anxiety. Whether you're flying or driving, there are a few things you can do to make your travel go a bit more smoothly.
Here are a few things to consider when traveling with children:
1. Plan ahead. While nobody can plan for temper tantrums, spills, or bathroom accidents, it may be worth over budgeting your time. You can try to leave an hour earlier or book reservations way in advance.
2. Schedule your flights around naptime or bedtime. If you're traveling by car, consider leaving around nap time or later in the evening. And if you're flying, consider booking an evening flight. While they may be more expensive, it may be worth it if you're aiming for ease. If you need to make a connecting flight, make sure to leave a reasonable amount of time. The last thing you need is a stressful rush through an unfamiliar airport.
3. Pack lightly. If you're a parent, it's likely that you naturally want to pack everything your kids use at the house. Having familiar items keeps routines consistent, and you'll be reassured to have everything you could need. However, try to pack as little as possible. Traveling in itself will disrupt your regular day-to-day routines, and trying to preserve them may result in frustration and additional stress.
4. When it comes to the baby, pack generously. Bring double the amount of formula, bottles, diapers, baby food, and snacks on the flight as you think you’ll need. The last thing you’ll want to deal with is a hungry, thirsty baby when you’re stuck on the tarmac or bedding down in your hotel room for an unexpected overnight stay.
5. Give kids an idea of what to expect. If you're flying, set the scene on what it'll be like to look outside of the window during takeoff, or imitate what it'll be like to listen to the captain before takeoff. This may also be an excellent time to set a few expectations. Tell them they'll be sitting in one place for a while, and it may get uncomfortable. But don't forget to emphasize the positive things they have to look forward to once it's all over!
6. Do your best to schedule potty breaks. While consistency is essential when it comes to potty training, it's okay to use pull-ups in this case. Whether you're trying to locate the next rest stop or the seat belt sign is turned on during your flight, sometimes, finding a bathroom can become one of the trickiest things when it comes to traveling.
7. Layers, layers, layers. This goes for unexpected temperature changes and comfort. Even if you're not expecting a drastic temperature change, at least you'll be prepared in case there are drastic changes aboard the plane. Wearing layers is also helpful for moms who are breastfeeding. Wearing a wrap could also double as a blanket (for baby or you). Dress yourself and your kids in comfy layers-preferably without any buttons, zippers, or anything that could get in the way of getting to the bathroom in time. And when it comes to shoes, avoid laces and go for the slip-on.
8. Don't forget to protect the ears when flying with a baby or toddler! Chewing or sucking can help ease any ear pain caused by air pressure changes in the airplane's cabin. Bring formula, pumped breast milk, and give your baby the bottle during takeoff and landing. Or, give them a sippy cup or a pacifier. If you have a toddler, eating a cracker or cookie can also be helpful.
9. Keep the kids happy with distractions. At the same time, it may mean getting a bit creative, like reading a book repeatedly, buying suitable travel toys, or actively playing with them. Or bring comfort toys from home. If you're usually mindful of screen time for your kids at home, it may be worth spoiling them for a few hours.
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The bottom line
 While traveling with kids doesn’t always go as planned, taking a few of these strategies into consideration may be just what you need to get through.
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