9 Amazing Toddler Travel Tips Our Family Lives By

I know how daunting the idea of traveling with toddlers can be, but 6 kids in, I can say without a doubt it has all been worth it. Our family has always embraced travel as a vital way to connect and build special memories.

Below you will find some of the most important lessons I have learned over the years about traveling with toddlers from maintaining sleep routines to packing must-haves.

mom standing in airport with one kid and toddler on her hip with 1 white and 1 orange suitcase in front of them

1. Choose Toddler-Friendly Destinations

When picking a vacation spot, you want to think about convenience and toddler-friendly amenities. Disney Cruises are a fantastic option for families with little ones. They offer a unique nursery service for children aged 2 and under who aren’t potty trained yet, allowing parents to enjoy some adult time.

Some of our other favorite toddler-friendly vacation spots:

Disney’s Aulani in Oahu, Hawaii
30A, Florida
Kauai, Hawaii
Nayara Tented Camp in Costa Rica
Soneva Jani in the Maldives

2. Keep the Sleep Routine Consistent

Maintaining bedtime rituals is crucial when traveling. We stick to the same books and songs and bring your Jack’s favorite sleep sack. The familiarity helps him and he always goes down easily, no matter where we are.

3. Pack Smart

Packing efficiently can significantly ease your travel experience. Aside from the basics like clothes and diapers, here’s the checklist I use to ensure I have all the “toddler stuff”!

Packing List:

First things first, what should you pack all of your toddler’s things in? I highly recommend the Stokke BedBox! This is a ride-on suitcase and in-flight bed that makes traveling with a toddler so much easier! I especially recommend this if you are traveling alone with your little one. Check it out here!

Ergo Carrier: Provides hands-free comfort and mobility, ideal for navigating airports and cities.
Travel Stroller: Lightweight and collapsible, perfect for crowded spaces.
Car Seat: The WAYB Pico is a travel-friendly safety choice.
Sleepsack: Maintains bedtime routines with a familiar sleeping environment.
Inflatable Toddler Bed: An inflatable bed comes in handy for travel, and this one is shaped like a car so your toddler might just love it enough to stay in it through the night!
Diaper Bag with Changing Pad: Organizes changing essentials for quick, easy diaper changes.
Toddler Utensils and Snack Foods: Simplifies mealtime for fussy eaters.
Entertainment: Aside from the iPad, I always make sure to bring a few activities with us. This mini magnetic tiles set kept Jack entertained for hours on our last flight to Kauai!

Sippy Cups/Bottles: Bring extra to replace any that get lost.
Bottle Soap & Brush: Useful for cleaning feeding items on the go.
Pacifiers & Clips: Carry spares to avoid mishaps.
Bibs: Keep outfits clean during meals.
Diaper Wipes & Cream: Handy for quick cleanups and preventing diaper rash.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen: Protects your toddler’s skin from UV rays.
Kids’ Medicines/Vitamins: Pack necessary medications and vitamins.
Swim Diapers: Necessary for most pools and water parks.
Insect Repellent: Essential in tropical or wooded areas.

4. Bring a Baby Carrier

A reliable baby carrier (I love my Ergo) is indispensable for traveling with toddlers. It allows you to keep your child close while keeping your hands free for other tasks

. Whether you’re navigating through crowded airports or exploring new cities, a carrier can help alleviate the physical strain of carrying your toddler for long periods.

5. Plan for Snacks and Meals

Toddlers can be unpredictable eaters, so having their favorite snacks on hand is a must. Pack a variety of healthy options that they’re familiar with to avoid hunger-induced tantrums.

Also, utilizing hotel breakfasts for extra fruit like grapes or blueberries can keep snacks ready throughout the day without needing to constantly buy more.

6. Take Breaks and Enjoy the Journey

Traveling can be overwhelming for toddlers, so it’s important to pace your activities and allow for regular breaks. Let them explore their surroundings and have some playtime. This not only burns off their extra energy but also increases their enjoyment and engagement with the new environment.

Embrace the slower days you get to have while traveling with little ones, they are fleeting and so special.

7. Safety First

Always prioritize safety by using appropriate car seats, strollers, and harnesses during your travels. Additionally, keep a small first-aid kit handy for any minor scrapes or bumps along the way.

We love our WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat and have found flights much easier when we buy Jack a seat and bring the car seat along. Not only do I have peace of mind that he’s safe in his seat, but he behaves and sleeps better.

8. Capture the Moments

Don’t forget to document these precious moments. Photos and videos of your toddler’s first dip in the ocean or their awe at a Disney character are priceless and make for wonderful memories to look back on.

Click to Shop Toddler Travel Favorites!

9. Leverage Screen Time Strategically

While many parents limit screen time at home, travel (especially flying) is the perfect occasion to bend the rules slightly for the sake of a smoother journey.

Preparing an iPad with your toddler’s favorite apps and shows can be a lifesaver on a long flight. Jack, like many toddlers, has a few favorites that are sure to keep him engaged and content during the trip.

Apps and Shows for Toddlers:

VideoTouch: Interactive animations ideal for sensory development.
Peekaboo Barn: Introduces farm animals and sounds, blending education and fun.
Bimi Boo: Engaging games that promote learning through puzzles and music.
Doodle Tree: Fosters creativity and motor skills as toddlers draw and decorate trees.
My Very Hungry Caterpillar: Animates the classic book, engaging children in feeding and playing.
Disney+ and PBS Kids: Features a wide range of shows, from Disney classics to educational PBS content.

Tips for Managing Screen Time:

Set Limits: Pre-determine your toddler’s iPad time using screen time or guided access settings for flight control.
Interactive vs. Passive: Mix watching shows with engaging activities like drawing apps or educational games.
Breaks: Alternate screen time with activities like reading or playing with toys to avoid overstimulation.

This approach not only helps make a potentially taxing flight more peaceful but also utilizes the technology as a learning tool, keeping your toddler both entertained and intellectually engaged.

Traveling with toddlers might seem daunting, but as a mom of six, I assure you it’s worth the effort for the precious family memories it creates.

I built this guide to share essential tips for a smoother journey: from choosing toddler-friendly destinations like Disney Cruises and relaxing beach towns, to maintaining sleep routines, and packing wisely. Remember to include essentials like a reliable baby carrier, bring along plenty of snacks, and allow for regular breaks throughout the day.

With a little planning, your family travels can be enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s to creating joyful memories on your adventures together!

Click to Save + Shop the Toddler Travel Essentials I Use with Jack!

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Emily Myers

Emily, a seasoned travel writer and editor, has traversed the Western United States, calling places like California, Arizona, Wyoming, Montana, and now Washington her home. With a passion for exploring and a particular fondness for unique Airbnb stays, she brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to every piece she writes.

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9 Amazing Toddler Travel Tips Our Family Lives By

October 3, 2024