If you are the parent of a toddler and looking for an adventure, travel somewhere. You will surely get an adventure of a lifetime – a wild, unpredictable, and even messy one. Jokes apart, traveling with toddlers can be full of fun and delight along with occasional challenges. But if you are fully prepared, physically, mentally, and materially, you can enjoy your family time out with enough memories to last a lifetime. This article provides you with practical tips and some proven strategies to make your journey enjoyable. So, if you are planning a vacation with your toddlers, read on.
Pre-Trip Planning
Always remember that traveling with kids especially toddlers requires considered attention and preparation. It can never be a spontaneous adventure. As a parent, there are so many things you have to pre-plan.
Choosing the Right Destination
The first step is to select a family-friendly destination. Go for places that are toddler-friendly and have availability of everything they need. Additionally, you should also look for places that offer activities for toddlers. Parks, playgrounds, theme parks, and other attractions suitable for young children should be considered. The goal is to keep your toddler engaged with the necessary amenities. Zoos, aquariums, and splash pads can be good options too.
Pack Essentials
Prepare a carry-on just for your toddlers. The packing for a toddler is not limited to just clothes. Pack everything you think he will need. That includes all the necessary items like diapers, wipes, snacks, favorite toys, etc. In a separate section, keep all the medications your toddler may need. To be on the safe side, also keep his medical records and a first-aid kit. Lastly, keep the travel documents.
Prepare the Toddler
Talk to your toddler about the vacation in advance. Talk to him about the road, the trip, the car, what to expect at different stages, the experiences he will get, and the like. Try creating some anticipation in him by talking about the excitements that await. Also talk about potential delays, long roads, makeshift bathrooms, etc. Show him some pictures or videos of the destination. Children may get anxious before a journey, but talking it over and including them in your preparation can help ease them. Do ask them to prepare their own small backpack with their favorite toys.
Travel Day Tips
Once you have everything planned, get ready for the travel day. You may either travel by air or by road, and we have some specific instructions for both settings.
By Air
Toddlers are unpredictable. So, arrive at the airport as early as possible. Do keep in mind that toddlers may take extra effort to go through security checks, boarding, and other phases. Talk to them about the security procedures and explain the process beforehand.
Flights can be testy for children. So to keep them occupied, pack their favorite and some new toys. Download their favorite movies and cartoons. Keep some of their favorite snacks handy for untimely cravings.
It would be a blessing for you and other passengers if you could get them to sleep on the flight.
Road Trips
Road trips are a different story since you have relative freedom there. Make sure your toddler’s seat is properly installed and comfortable. Short breaks after frequent intervals are advised to allow them the opportunity to stretch. In-drive entertainment is essential here too. So keep a stock of their favorite plays, cartoons, and movies. You can also introduce them to audiobooks and music to keep them occupied.
During the Trip
As a parent, you can not be carefree during the whole trip. These are some of the steps you should follow.
Maintain Routines
There can be some unexpected happenings, but you should stick to your toddler’s routine as much as possible. The regular sleep and meal schedules should not be disturbed. These familiar routines will give a sense of security to him in new environments. It is advised to bring familiar foods for your toddler and refrain from trying new and exotic things. Toddlers have developing immune systems which can be disturbed easily. Food poisoning and other such allergies are common and familiar dietary habits can help prevent them.
Managing Meltdowns
Always expect unexpected meltdowns and tantrums. One reason is traveling which can be pretty overwhelming for them. And the other is, that they are children and children do these things. You have to keep your cool and try distracting them with their toys and games. If they don’t calm down, try to use your new settings and find interesting activities for them. The more they are engaged, the less will be the chances of meltdowns.
Health and Safety
The health and safety of toddlers should be at the top of your priority list. Try making the new environment as much comfortable for them as possible. Childproof your accommodation. Always keep a close eye on them. If they want to try out some new activities, go with them and participate in whatever they are doing. Never leave them alone in unfamiliar places even for your restroom breaks.
Always keep a first-aid kit handy for minor cuts, bites, and falls. Make sure to use sunscreen and consume cool drinks if you are in some high-temperature setting. Lastly, keep your toddler’s medical history with you along with necessary medication and emergency services readily available.
Returning Home
After returning home, parents should work on the toddler’s post-trip recovery. Ease them back into their routine gradually. Allow them space to adjust back into their daily life. Make them have ample rest to recover from any travel fatigue or jet lag.
Ask them to narrate their favorite experiences, their likes and dislikes. Help them create a travel scrapbook or photo album. This will help him cherish memories and look forward to future adventures.
With proper preparation and the right strategies in place, you can enjoy your travelling with toddlers. Always plan ahead, stay flexible, and keep your cool. Embrace the adventures and make memories you will cherish your whole life.
