Tips for Travelling with Children
I asked parents their tips for having a great vacation with their kids
I am part of a wonderful club, The Starling Club, which has been a great place to learn and share. In one of our Discord channels, we discussed the unique challenges of travelling with children, especially as they outgrow naps and seek engagement. The group came up with ideas for thoughtful planning and adjusted expectations to get the most enjoyment out of your family vacation.
Engaging Activities for Little Explorers
To keep kids entertained and make the most of your trip, incorporate activities that appeal to both children and adults.
Active Adventures: Embrace physical activities like e-biking with child seats, finding local playgrounds to break up other activities, and enjoying water activities such as boat rides or swimming.
Imaginative Play: Transform destinations into magical experiences. For instance, frame a museum visit around finding "princess dresses" or focus on the enchantment of castles in a new country.
Scavenger Hunts: Create or find scavenger hunts for museums, historical sites, or even parks. These can be simple printables or something you create on the spot. Consider asking a tour guide or perhaps use AI assistance for lesser-known locations.
Craft Kits: Assemble small, self-contained craft kits for independent creative time.
Audiobooks: Pack a portable device for audiobooks (like a tablet or Yoto player) or storytelling podcasts, which can provide hours of quiet entertainment, especially on planes or during downtime.
Local Kids' Events: Research local libraries for story times or other community events tailored for children, offering a chance for kids to be entertained and parents to relax.
Essential Gear and Strategies for Smooth Travel
Packing smart and having a few tricks up your sleeve can make a big difference.
Snack Central: Bring "snacks galore"! Consider a mini backpack for children to carry their own easy-to-access snacks (making sure you can still tuck it in your bag if they get tired of carrying it). Keep simple, healthy snacks like bananas, apples, and nuts on hand.
Restaurant Entertainment: Keep a dedicated bag filled with small, engaging toys for restaurants. Think figurines, mini books, coloring books, magnet books, and small dolls (like Barbies). To maintain novelty, rotate these toys or save them for travel only.
Strategic Tablet Use: Limit tablet use to essential situations like long car rides, airplane travel, or extended waits to preserve its effectiveness.
Co-Sleeping: If it works for your family, co-sleeping can lead to better sleep for both children and parents while travelling.
Solo Parenting Shifts: If travelling with a partner, take turns with solo parenting so the other adult can have some personal time.
Establishing a Vacation Rhythm and Managing Expectations
Creating a consistent, yet flexible, daily rhythm can prevent meltdowns and ensure everyone enjoys the trip.
Adjust Expectations: Understand that travelling with children is different from adult-only trips. It’s a temporary phase, and embracing that can reduce stress.
Morning Routine: Start the day with a predictable routine, like reading books or a short period of quiet screen time, while adults get ready.
Morning Activity: Incorporate an exercise or kid-centric activity every morning, such as a walk, a scavenger hunt, or a trip to a playground.
Midday Quiet Time (Siesta): Even if kids no longer nap, schedule a "siesta" or quiet time in the middle of the day. This is a chance for everyone to reset with coloring, audiobooks, or simply quiet relaxation, allowing adults to rest or read.
Involve Children in Planning: For older children, share the trip's rhythm and allow them to chime in on activities they'd like to include, fostering a sense of ownership.
One Big Activity Per Day: Focus on one major activity per day to avoid overstimulation and exhaustion.
Prioritize Fresh Air: Seek opportunities for a few minutes of fresh air alone in the morning or after bedtime.
Emergency Supplies: Pack disposable toilet seat covers or a portable potty for emergencies. Bring extra clothing and underwear in case of accidents or spills. Also have a few bandages on hand for cuts and scrapes.
Relaxation Aids: Consider natural remedies like magnesium spray or Epsom salts for baths to aid sleep and relaxation. Bach's Rescue Remedy can help calm nerves.
Mindful Eating: Limit sugar intake to prevent energy crashes. In Europe, consider having big lunches and smaller dinners to align with restaurant opening hours and ensure children get to bed at a reasonable time.