For children, travel can be an eye-opening experience. They get to experience new foods, sights, and sounds, and they get some quality time with you. But it can also be a daunting plan to travel with children.
Things like irregular schedules, long packing lists, and irritable kids are just a few of the obstacles you can face along the way. But here we will help you make it a breeze to travel with children.
After all, you and your children should enjoy seeing the world at every moment and make a lifetime of memories along the way. Isn't that the point of the journey? Here's your simple guide when traveling with children.
What to Expect
Travel helps spark children's imagination and allows them to participate in imaginative play, talents they acquire during childhood.
Once your child starts walking, unless you are blessed with the mellowest of kids, all bets will probably be off. One-year-olds are also too young to comprehend and obey your orders, so you'll have to keep a close eye on them.
At 18-24 months, with a completely mobile yet not yet rational baby, things continue to be complicated. At this age, your child may understand some things so you'll better be able to control them when traveling.
At 3 or 4 years of age, most children will have some sort of preschool experience and will be used to listening to figures of authority. If you've frequently been traveling with your kids, by age 5, most kids will be travel pros.
Do: Pack Light
The average person can carry about 10% of their body weight on their back, which also applies to children. Children can bring packs of their own, with belongings of their own.
That encourages autonomy, accountability, and a sense of achievement. Bear in mind that as a parent, you will inevitably hold your bag, a children's pack, and maybe even a child more than occasionally.
When your kid can't go any further and you have to catch a plane, what is the plan? Recall that every ounce counts.
Do: Bring a Medical Bag
It doesn't have many items, but it does consist of difficult things to get in a pinch. Ensure the antihistamines, bandages, topical antibiotics, self-adhesive bandage, and liquid stitches are included in your bag.
Those are the bare minimum, so think carefully about where you'll be traveling and the type of thing you could potentially need.
Do: Carry the Records
Original or apostilled documents are needed by some countries, so figure out what you need before you leave. You should keep a backup of all your records, as well as those of your children, in any case.
This should include copies of birth certificates, passports, and a copy of your marriage certificate if you are married.
If you or your partner get split up, you might also want to consider a formal signed or notarized letter granting permission to fly with your children alone. Keep one copy with you and put one on a cloud drive in your inbox or online.
Don't: Bring Too Many Toiletries
Toiletries, particularly when traveling with kids, are hands down the most massive weight drain on any bag. You can likely find all of the things you need wherever you are traveling.
So, just carry small amounts of things you need and then buy locally, unless you have a prescription item or something tough to find.
Don't: Forget the Snacks
A hungry kid is a cranky kid and close to a total tantrum, especially if long hours of travel make them tired or stressed. To keep them happy, prevent this uncomfortable situation by packing a wide variety of snacks and beverages.
And don't plan to rely on restaurants and shops for a fast fix; you don't want to risk running out if your child is especially fond of a particular brand or snack.
Instead, stock up on snacks or make your own snack packs. Even if you run into a delayed flight or are trapped in a hotel on a rainy day, everyone will be happy and quiet.
Don't: Forget the Toys
Kids crave a sense of normalcy, no matter how long you are away. Be sure to carry the favorite toys, books, and bottles of your child along when on your adventures, and don't keep your child in a baby carrier or stroller all day.
Give your child the chance to walk and get some exercise; if your baby is not yet walking, he or she can still stretch or roll around on a mat.
Conclusion
Kids are quite adaptable and they may be easier to travel with than you expect. Although it sounds overwhelming and like a lot of work, remember that it's a fun adventure and a learning experience is all that comes with it.
Do your best to go with the flow, and note that there's nothing a gelato scoop can't repair. You make memories, and you'll look back one day and laugh at the misadventures.
