Traveling with kids can feel like an adventure, a challenge and a comedy all rolled into one. Whether heading out on a road trip or hopping on a plane, a little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a smoother journey. These 10 tips, packed with lesser-known strategies and real-life examples will help you navigate the chaos and truly enjoy the experience with your little ones.
Prepare Your Kids Mentally for the Journey
One of the most overlooked aspects of traveling with kids is preparing them mentally for the trip. Discuss the travel plans with your kids ahead of time. This helps adjust their expectations and reduces anxiety about the upcoming journey. Share fun details like the exciting landmarks they’ll see or the special food they’ll enjoy. For instance, show your toddler pictures of the airplane and hotel ahead of the trip, turning the idea of sleeping somewhere new into an adventure.
Pack Smart, Pack Light
When it comes to packing, less is more but smart packing is key. Use packing cubes to group outfits by day or activity — a lifesaver when grabbing pajamas during a late-night hotel check-in. For younger kids, use different bags to pack complete outfits, including socks and underwear, so they’re ready for a quick grab-and-go. If you travel with several kids, color code the bags or use a different pillowcase for each child — it doubles as a laundry bag on the trip back.
Book Kid-friendly Accommodations
Choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference. Look for hotels with perks like babysitting services or kid-friendly meals. Some rental properties now offer curated kits for families, including high chairs, strollers and toys. If your kids are super active, look for places to stay that are close to a nearby park or playground — perfect for burning off mid-afternoon energy.
Stick to Familiar Routines
Children thrive on routine, and traveling can disrupt their sense of normalcy. Try to maintain familiar habits such as bedtime rituals or meal times. If you’re crossing time zones, adjust schedules gradually to minimize jet lag and crankiness. Plan outdoor activities in the morning — natural light helps reset internal clocks.
Snacks Save the Day
Hungry kids can quickly turn grumpy. Pack a variety of snacks that are easy to eat on the go, such as granola bars, fruit slices, and crackers. If traveling internationally, be mindful of food restrictions and customs regulations. Bringing a refillable water bottle for each family member is also a smart move to stay hydrated.
Create a Kid-Friendly Itinerary
Don’t overbook your days. Kids quickly get tired of cultural activities, so tailor your plans to their interests. Incorporate frequent breaks at playgrounds, quirky roadside attractions, and ice cream or frozen yogurt shops. Download local travel apps to find unique stops that cater to children’s curiosity and engagement.
“Mix culture and fun. I make sure to balance museums and cultural sites with playgrounds and interactive exhibits and never plan more than one big outing a day to keep from over scheduling us. Look for hands-on experiences where kids can learn while having fun. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in the local culture while keeping kids engaged.”
— Ashley Wali, Wanderlux
Prepare for Delays
Delays don’t have to stress you out. Keep a grab bag of surprises like reusable sticker books, fidget toys or small LEGO sets to bring out during moments of boredom. For long international flights, load your tablet with episodes of their favorite shows and a few educational apps. One creative idea: Wrap small toys as presents to hand out during particularly long waits — the excitement of unwrapping them adds an extra layer of distraction.
Engage Kids in the Journey
Involve your children in planning and experiencing the trip. Create a travel binder for each child with maps, coloring pages, and travel trivia about your destination. Older kids might enjoy being in charge of navigation for a day, using apps or paper maps to lead the way. Giving kids cameras encourages them to focus on what excites them, and their photos become treasured keepsakes.
“If you have older kids, make sure to ask them what they would like to do, either while planning or when you have a few options in your day. Older kids and teens don’t usually like to be dragged around, and taking a moment to hear what they want to do can make a huge difference in their attitude.”
— Gena Lazcano, Ginger Casa
Have a Parent Survival Kit
Your kit isn’t just for emergencies—it’s for sanity-saving moments. Include items like herbal tea bags, a travel-sized neck massager, or even a favorite snack for yourself. Pack extra chargers and a portable Wi-Fi device to ensure you can always access navigation apps or stream shows during unexpected delays. Keep a small notebook for jotting down funny travel moments or great ideas for the next trip.
Embrace Flexibility
When things get tough, remember that these fleeting moments will soon pass. The best travel memories often come from unplanned moments. After all, your travel goal is to create lasting memories and bonding moments as a family.
One Last Thing
Traveling with kids may not always be easy but it’s an adventure worth embracing. By combining creativity, preparation and a touch of humor, you can turn potential challenges into opportunities for connection and fun. Whether it’s a detour to a roadside diner or an impromptu dance party at the airport, these are the moments your family will remember forever. So grab your bags, your sense of adventure and these tips — your next family journey awaits.
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This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things P A R E N T I N G.
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