Tips for Traveling the Long Haul with Toddlers
As any parent knows, taking long trips with toddlers in tow can be one incredibly stressful experience. Traveling is already pretty hectic as it is – what with all the packing, checking over flight itineraries, mapping out routes for road trips, and figuring out hotel accommodations. Add to that a screaming and crying child, and any sane adult is likely to be sent over the edge. But traveling with your kids doesn’t have to be a huge, worrisome affair. Here are some toddler-friendly tips that will help you out on your next big trip:
1. Check in ONLINE. This will save you and your family so much time and energy. Do all your checking in online so that all you have to worry about when you get to the airport is dropping off baggage and looking for your gate.
2. Preparation. There are many other foolproof tips that will help you on your next flight with your toddler. For instance, consider booking a direct, non-stop flight, if at all possible. This will help cut down on the stress that can derive from running through an airport, trying to find where your next flight is taking off from. It’s also important to remember to dress kids in layers (and bring blankets!), as the temperature on planes tends to be a bit chilly. This can also help for any temperature changes that will occur once you reach your destination. In addition, when preparing for take-off, it’s always a good idea to give toddlers a sucker or something else to chew on, so they don’t experience any painful ear-popping.
3. Have some good toys and games ready to go. Making sure your toddler stays occupied is imperative, especially if your flight is unexpectedly delayed or you’re embarking on a long car trip. Investing in a good portable DVD player and a couple good old Disney flicks is also a great idea – this will keep any toddler occupied for hours. Other good travel toys include kid-friendly puzzles, toddler laptops (which are chock-full of good games and activities), Pocket Etch-A-Sketches, Magna Doodles or even just simple pipe cleaners. Seriously, kids love pipe cleaners – buy a couple $1 packs and watch your child get creative.
4. Assemble a surprise package. This does take a bit of preparation, but it really is worth it – especially for car rides. Here’s what you do: put together a bag full of fun items that you know your toddler will enjoy. These can be anything from small toys, to snacks, to a packet of stickers – whatever you want. If you have time, wrap the items (I don’t think it’s a surprise to anyone that kids love unwrapping presents, no matter how small). Tell your child that if he or she is well behaved for the entirety of the trip, ONE present may be opened per 50 miles (or 75, or 100). This works like a charm, every time – kids will not only stay occupied, but they’ll be on their best behavior, as well.
5. Pack double the snacks. Well… pack double everything your child needs, but definitely don’t skimp on the snacks. It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared – and this is especially true in terms of snack food. Hungry kids make for cranky kids…which makes for even crankier parents.
6. Never, ever worry about what other people are thinking. It’s true that, for whatever reason, many people really love to act as if they’ve never had kids who throw tantrums. But, if your child is having a bit of bad moment on a crowded flight or in another public place, it’s crucial to keep in mind that worrying about what other people think is only going to make you feel worse. Tend to your child’s needs first, and don’t even think about dignifying any pointed looks or glares from other travelers.
This article was written by Justine Harrington. Justine is a freelance writer for Without the stress. A passport Visa expediting service that specializes in Last minute passport renewals, same day passport service, and Uk student visas.
