Traveling with kids is risky. It might sound fun, but if you lose your balance the whole thing can be a flop. Here are some travel tips that will ensure your trip is exhilarating in a good way.
Baby on Board
Whether you go by car, train, or plane, plan around your baby's need: eating, sleeping, and pooping. Keep them on their usual schedule as much as possible. Don't let them get too hungry or too tired. Change diapers often, even if you have to do it at 32,000 feet. Blowouts can ruin a perfectly good trip.
Pack light but not too light. Bring a stroller if space allows; they're handy for carrying more than the baby. Many airlines check baby gear free of charge. Consult the Federal Aviation Administration for more details.
If you'll need to heat milk or baby food, find lodging with a fridge and microwave or bring an electric teapot. In transit, offer room temperature options, like applesauce, crackers and Cheerios.
How you pack is important, too. Easy access is key. Make an "in transit" kit to stow under the airline seat or near baby's car seat. It's not what you have; it's what you can find in it that matters.
Routine is soothing, so preserve everyday rituals, like bath time and breakfast time if possible. Trying new things is fun, but can be a little unsettling to your child. Take it slow.
Ants in Their Pants
Traveling with toddlers and preschoolers is challenging. Kids can't roam free in transit, so try to maximize movement during travel breaks.
On the road, think parks, playgrounds, and rest areas. Pick up food to go; then use your map or GPS to find a play space nearby. Keep a blanket in the car to turn pit stops into picnics. An inflatable beach ball or Frisbee are fun anytime, anywhere.
Going up? Don't book the shortest airline itinerary. You will want ample time to take a walk and stretch, use the restroom and eat a snack before boarding your next flight, especially if you'll have a squirmy toddler on your lap.
Use training pants for long stretches of travel time if your child is not 100% accident free. If your children will be bedding down on the floor, bring a sleeping bag. Let them pick one out one they like, and practice at home first. Familiarity reduces stress.
Too much go-go-go wears everyone out. Leave room for rest in your itinerary to avoid end of day meltdowns. Well rested travelers have more fun.
School-Age Adventurers
Let school-age kids participate in travel planning. Use online maps to let them explore routes, and let them suggest activities they would enjoy. Build a travel notebook containing itinerary and activity information, such as hours and admission fees.
iVllage has put together a great travel check list of all the things you will need to bring, and it's even broke down by ages.
Shelly Thomson-Blevins - Shelly Thomson-Blevins is just a girl trying to balance love, life, and everything in between.
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