Travel Tips for Families with Toddlers

My 15-month-old son, Julian, is a champion road tripper. We’ve driven from our hometown of Minneapolis to the East Coast and back, exploring half a dozen states in the Midwest. However, our first family holiday involving flights and time-zone changes was a low-grade disaster.

We chose San Diego because it seemed baby-friendly: warm weather, beautiful beaches, a cool children’s museum, and one of the best zoos on earth. Don’t get me wrong, there were incredible moments—like watching Julian crawl on a beach for the first time, amazed by this magical thing we call sand. Nevertheless, the numerous challenges such as teething fits, diaper blowouts, and stroller tantrums made me feel like an amateur. With over 70 countries visited for work and pleasure, how could a trip to an easy-breezy place like San Diego turn out to be so challenging?

Start ‘Em Young: Embrace Family Travel Early

David DiGregorio, a New York-based travel addictee, emphasized the importance of exposing children to travel from infancy. When his wife got pregnant, they ignored the naysayers who predicted the end of their travelling days. Instead, they committed to making their daughter Samara adapt to their lifestyle. From attending parties to restaurant outings, they ensured she was comfortable in various settings.

Fast forward to today, and Samara has traveled to 49 countries on five continents, showcasing the adaptability that travel has instilled in her. David notes that his daughters have learned to be less nonjudgmental and more flexible, truly understanding the dynamics of being the foreigner when traveling abroad.

Travel to Child-Friendly Destinations

DiGregorio pointed out that the U.S. is not typically a kid-friendly culture. Many American families are often made to feel like a burden simply for existing. In contrast, several South American and European countries foster a more affectionate environment toward children, making it easier for families to navigate airports and restaurants.

Flying with Kids: Prepare for the Experience

I believed I was prepared for our flight from Minneapolis to San Diego. We purchased a seat for Julian, packed a multitude of snacks, and brought various toys. However, Julian rapidly exhausted his distractions; he became teething and spent the final hour of the flight being soothed by my husband in the bathroom.

Many experienced parents shared similar horror stories, reinforcing the reality of traveling with young kids. It’s essential to limit expectations and instead come prepared with entertainment options for the journey, such as tablets loaded with educational games and surprise items for in-flight enjoyment.

Coping with Jet Lag

According to Tom Marchant, a travel expert, time zone shifts can be disorienting for young children. He recommends allowing for an additional day or two to acclimate to a new time zone and suggests sticking closer to home if the travel schedule is tight.

Seek Help from Family

Having family along can be a game-changer. Helping hands can lighten the load, turning a travel experience into an enjoyable outing for everyone involved.

Pack Wisely

When packing for travel, intentionality is key. Instead of overpreparing, consider purchasing items at your destination to reduce baggage. It’s often easier than carrying the entire home with you.

Be Adaptable: Understand Children’s Individuality

Remember that every child travels differently. Some babies may have temperaments that make traveling easier, while others may not. It’s important not to judge travel experiences based on social media portrayals; the reality lies in understanding that every child will have their unique ways of responding to travel.

Eventually, It Gets Easier

While the early years of travel can be challenging, many seasoned travelers agree that these experiences get easier as children grow. Milestones like walking, better communication, and increased engagement with the world make future travels more delightful. The most rewarding moments often emerge after returning home, as children display openness and a desire to explore new cultures, showcasing the immense value of family travel.