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.
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:
- 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.
- 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!
- Sleepsack: Maintains bedtime routines with a familiar sleeping environment.
- Diaper Bag with Changing Pad: Organizes changing essentials for quick, easy diaper changes.
- Toddler Utensils and Snack Foods: Simplifies mealtime for fussy eaters.
- 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!
You Might Also Like:
MY 6 BEST TIPS FOR CRUISING WITH TODDLERS
ULTIMATE AULANI REVIEW [POOLS, VIEWS, FOOD, AND MUST-KNOW TIPS]
COMPLETE TROPICAL VACATION PACKING LIST: ESSENTIALS FOR SUN AND SAND!
Pin for Later – 9 Amazing Toddler Travel Tips Our Family Lives By
- Create Your Own Magic – Get Started as a Disney Travel Agent Today! - October 5, 2024
- 5 Fun Rainy Day Activities in Kauai Everyone Will Love - September 25, 2024
- Set Sail on the All-New Disney Destiny – What to Expect - September 12, 2024
+ show Comments
- Hide Comments
add a comment