Crystal By Crystal Castillo with Mouse Tales Travel | October 2024
You’ve likely been on a flight or vacation and seen a toddler in the middle of a meltdown, with a desperate parent doing everything possible to calm them down. The parent probably tried every trick in the book—offering toys, snacks, books, singing their favorite songs, and offering electronic gadgets—yet nothing seemed to work as the tears and cries continued. It’s a stressful situation that can make any parent hesitant to travel with a toddler again. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? With a little planning and the right strategies, your next trip can be as smooth and enjoyable as it is fun for your little one. As a mother who loves to travel and has two energetic boys, I’ve had my share of trials in finding the best destinations and keeping them entertained! Here’s everything you need to know for a stress-free adventure with your toddler!
Preparing for the Trip: Planning is Key
When planning a family vacation with a toddler, choosing the right destination is key. Family-friendly destinations that have shorter flight or drive times are always best because long-haul flights or extended car rides can be difficult for toddlers to endure, leading to restlessness and frustration. Also consider kid-friendly amenities and activities, such as kid clubs, kid pool and splash pad areas, playgrounds, etc., as these are all important things to consider in your vacation destination.
Photo Credit: Crystal Castillo taken at Lopesan Bavaro Resort in Punta Cana. 2023. All Rights Reserved.
Another thing to consider when preparing for a trip is when to travel because timing matters. This includes what time you leave on a flight or a car ride. I personally like to catch early flights. Despite having to get my young children up early, by the time we are on the plane they are ready for a nap, and most of the time they will sleep the majority of the flight, making for a stress-free and restful flight for me and my husband. We may be lucky to catch a quick power nap too.
Consider what time of year you are traveling to. Most families will plan vacations during school breaks, such as summer, winter, and Spring Break. However, this can be a busy time to travel, making the hectic airports and congested highways stressful for children, as well as parents. If possible, consider traveling during the low-peak times of the year – or when school is still in session.
Packing Essentials for Toddlers
Making sure you have all the essential items to keep your little one happy while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip is crucial. From cozy clothing and necessary toiletries to feeding supplies and beloved comfort items, being well-prepared is key!
It’s essential to check the weather before embarking on your trip—this is a given. Keep in mind that little ones tend to get colder than older kids, teens, and adults, so always pack a light jacket for them. Layering for varying temperatures is a smart practice. Make sure to include a couple of pairs of shoes for your children, such as sandals or flip-flops if you’re headed somewhere warm, along with a sturdy pair of tennis shoes. If your vacation involves mountains, having closed-toe shoes like athletic sneakers or hiking boots is advisable, especially if you plan on hiking. For snowy destinations, don’t forget to bring waterproof boots for your kids. Wet shoes and socks can lead to a miserable experience if their feet get cold. I bought my kids a pair of waterproof boots and some warm wool socks, and they stayed both warm and dry. (Note: As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.) In addition to waterproof boots, be sure to pack a scarf, a warm hat, a good jacket, and thermal underlayers. When heading to snowy areas, layering is essential!
When traveling with young kids, bringing comfort items and entertainment can help them feel safe and comfortable. Familiar objects, such as favorite blanket or stuffed animal, can provide a sense of security and help ease any anxiety in new environments. These items not only make settling into unfamiliar places easier but also offer comfort during long travel days. Additionally, packing a selection of appropriate toys, coloring books and sticker books, or tablets loaded with favorite shows and games can keep little ones entertained during downtime or while waiting in airports. Having these comfort items and entertainment options readily available can transform potential meltdowns into fun and memorable moments, allowing the whole family to enjoy the adventure together!
Navigating Airports and Flights with Toddlers
Flying, especially for the first time, can be both exciting and stressful for toddlers and little children. One of the best pieces of advice I received before taking my oldest on his first flight at a year-and-a-half was to bring a separate bag filled with some of his favorite toys along with a few new ones. While they will naturally enjoy their beloved toys and books, new items can captivate their attention and keep them engaged for longer as they explore and play. I found that doodle boards are always a hit, and tablets loaded with their favorite shows and movies are a lifesaver during the flight. Just remember to download the content before arriving at the airport, as the internet connectivity can be unreliable both there and on the plane. If you wait too long, you might miss the chance to download everything in time. On our last trip, I also picked up some child-friendly headphones for my youngest, and he absolutely loved them!
While in the airport, it may be easier to keep children in their strollers. You can always check the stroller (often times for free) at the gate. Just be sure to check with the desk at the gate to get a tag to put on the stroller for checking in. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself having to go back to the gate and do this, delaying you to get on and settled for the flight.
When traveling with a small child on a plane, there are several options to ensure their comfort and security, including bringing a car seat or booster seat. If you’re looking to save space, consider investing in a compact inflatable booster seat instead of hauling a large car seat. While I haven’t used one personally (yet!), there are also airplane beds designed for young children, allowing them to lie down comfortably and have more space without the risk of falling off the seat.
This toddler airplane bed can act as an extender between seats. It creates a cozy hammock-like footrest for children to sit more comfortably or lay down and take a quick nap.
As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Image above is an image via Amazon.
Managing Meals and Snacks on Vacation
Managing meals and snacks on vacation can be a breeze with a little planning and preparation. Start by researching family-friendly restaurants at your destination that offer a variety of options to satisfy everyone’s tastes, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. Consider making reservations for popular spots to avoid long waits, especially during peak dining hours. Packing healthy snacks for outings can also save you time and money while keeping little ones satisfied between meals. Options like granola bars, fruit, and crackers are portable and easy to carry. If you have access to a kitchenette or a mini-fridge in your accommodation, take advantage of this by stocking up on groceries for quick breakfasts or simple meals. This way, you can maintain a balance between dining out and enjoying the convenience of home-cooked meals, making your vacation enjoyable and stress-free for the whole family! (Unless of course you are trying to not cook!)
Napping and Sleep Schedules While Traveling
Maintaining napping and sleep schedules for toddlers and small children while traveling can be challenging, but it’s key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone. While it’s tempting to adjust your child’s schedule to fit in more sightseeing or activities, sticking to their regular nap and bedtime routines can help prevent overtiredness and meltdowns. If possible, try to plan activities around nap times, allowing for breaks or quiet time during the day. Bringing along familiar items, such as their favorite blanket or stuffed animal, can help recreate a sense of comfort when it’s time to rest. If you’re crossing time zones, gradually adjust their sleep schedule leading up to the trip to help them adapt more easily. Being flexible yet mindful of their sleep needs will help keep your little one rested and happy, making the vacation more enjoyable for the entire family.
Keeping Children Entertained During the Trip
Before your vacation, research your destination to check which area attractions or hotel amenities will be enjoyable for your child. Local zoos, water parks, parks, swimming areas, theme parks, arcades, and children’s museums can be fantastic options to break up the day and give your kids something fun to look forward to (or might even be the main reason for your trip!). Many hotels also offer kid-friendly amenities like game rooms, pools, or organized activities that can keep them entertained. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your trip by ensuring there are plenty of activities that cater to their interests, providing a good balance of exploration, play, and rest. It’s always a good idea to check for any special family-friendly events or seasonal activities, such as holiday festivals or local performances, that might be happening during your stay. Keeping a few key spots and activities in mind will help ensure the whole family has a memorable and enjoyable vacation!
Keeping children entertained during downtime or while dining at restaurants can make these moments more relaxing and restful for everyone. To prevent boredom, pack a variety of activities that cater to different interests and attention spans. Simple options like coloring books, puzzles, or small toys can be lifesavers, while electronic devices loaded with movies, educational apps, or games can keep kids engaged for longer stretches. Consider introducing a few new toys or activities to spark curiosity and hold their attention. Audiobooks and mess-free marker books can also be great for smaller children.
Dealing with Toddler Meltdowns and Challenges
In the event of your toddler having meltdown on vacation, try to stay calm and patient, as your reaction can set the tone for how the situation unfolds. Offer them comfort with a soothing voice or a familiar item, like a favorite toy or blanket, to help them feel secure. If possible, step away from overstimulating environments and find a quiet, calm space where they can settle down. Distraction can also work wonders—introduce a new toy or game, or engage them with something they enjoy, like looking at pictures or watching a favorite show. Be mindful of their basic needs, as meltdowns are often triggered by hunger, fatigue, or overstimulation. Finally, don’t be too hard on yourself—meltdowns happen, and staying flexible and understanding will help you handle these moments with ease while keeping your trip enjoyable.
