When you are traveling with young children (whether by highway or skyway), convenience, simplicity, ease, all come to mind. What will make this trip less stressful? My family has traveled a considerable amount since my children were infants and each time we travel I learn a new hack for the next trip.
Before each trip……..
I have compiled the following hacks, in hopes that you will find these make your trip “peanut butter” smooth. Ok, maybe not that smooth. I mean we are talking about young children here.
Packing
Make a list of everything you need. I use the notes section of my phone. My list includes my children’s “must haves”, such as noise cancelling headphones. These are a definite “must” for one of my kids. I DO NOT travel without them. Be sure to check things off, as you put them in your bag. Rule of thumb: do this at least three days prior to the trip. That way, if you need something, you have time to go pick it up and not feel rushed.
Packing cubes
These are so helpful in keeping things organized. I am able to pack 5 days worth of my clothes, as well as the clothes of two young children, in 1 carryon, using these bags.
Luggage
Obviously, when packing, you feel like you need everything that you put in your luggage. You would feel quiet incomplete if you lost it. For me, if I need anything, it’s my personal bag, which happens to be a backpack. This is the bag that has the most immediate needs.
What’s in my backpack
My backpack serves as a personal bag on the plane. When traveling by car, I keep it up front with me vs. in the trunk. What’s in it?
Items that my kids have never seen before. I like to pick up a few things from the dollar section of Target (etc. puzzles, squishy toys). In addition, I may include stickers, notebook, coloring books, workbooks, crayons/markers/colored pencils. Quick tip: if you can find some cool pens or crayons (maybe those that twist), it will increase the excitement of using them. Other cool items I have included:
these scratch pads are a winner
reusable sticker books
magnetic bingo game
Don’t forget to include the following:
First aid kit
Kids Change of clothes
Electronic accessories (and backup electronic accessories)
Snacks
Body wipes
Disinfectant wipes
Hand sanitizer
Face Masks
Gallon sized zip lock bags. These are great for “oops” situations, trash, and can serve as an option to divide snacks if needed.
Please share any tips that you have for traveling with kids. We would love to hear them. Happy and safe travels.
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