Have you ever thought of traveling with your little children and immediately gone into panic mode? [Not yet…] Don’t worry if you have, we’ve all been there. There is a lot of trip planning associated with even adults. The concept of packing your bags (+ your significant others… because let’s be honest they would pack for the wrong season or forget underwear), is a lot. Now add to it children who need more than just clothes.
3… 2… 1… breathe, it’s all good. There are some benefits and many memories you can make when traveling with kids if you can get past the upfront chaos.
Pack it up
If you plan ahead you’ll thank yourself while on the road. Packing cubes are great for kids. You can organize various types of clothes into different cubes and when you’re actually traveling you don’t need to unpack the WHOLE suitcase to find that one t-shirt your son needs… it’s the little things that spare the meltdown. [This is applicable even for you…I’ve witnessed a meltdown or two] The type of bag you use is important too. If you can travel lighter go for a nice weekender which will have space for the packing cubes. An organizer’s dream weekender is the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe. It has pockets and space for everything imaginable.
Whether you’re traveling by plane or car, separating out the carry on/back seat bags is key. Go with three smaller bags, one diaper bag with a change of clothes, diapers, and bottle type items, one bag for snacks and beverages, and one bag for toys, books, and games. This allows you to have control over where things are and you can pivot as needed depending on what is being asked of you. [I need a snack bag, please!!] Also helps you verbally navigate things for your partner who surely pulls most things out to find one diaper.
Ready for Takeoff
Airport travel looks different today, but the concept of traveling with kids remains the same. It won’t ever become easy. [whoa, don’t be so optimistic] Everyone has a different stance on electronic devices, but this is one time it will buy everyone sanity. From delays to long flights this is one way everyone stays quiet for at least some period of time. It doesn’t need to be an iPad, the Amazon Fire Kids Tablet is great and keeps them away from the apps they don’t need to be in. Here is a nice list of other toddler friendly activities for longer trips!
Once you reach you’ve handled one part of the trip, now onto the next…getting them adjusted. If you packed every single thing you needed for a trip you’d be taking a u-haul wherever you go. For the best baby equipment rentals we always use BabyQuip. They have everything you need, available for rental at your new destination. Ranging from cribs, strollers, beach toys, high chairs, the list goes on…but now you don’t have to pack it, someone will deliver it!
Cheers!
I say this because you should be drinking… how could you travel with kids and not need at least one glass of wine (or two shots of tequila)? [the longer the delay the more drinks you earn] The memories you’ll have are worth the chaos and lack of sleep, when all you want is rest and alone beach time.
What are some tips and tricks that get you through traveling with toddlers? Share them with me, don’t keep them to yourself!!
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