Traveling with kids can be daunting, particularly if it is your first time. However, there are a few ways to ensure that your trip runs as smoothly as possible and that you all enjoy your break!

Book in advance

While traveling solo or as a couple means being as spontaneous as you like, it is a little different if you are traveling with kids. You will likely find that your trip will be much easier and more enjoyable if you plan. It will probably work out cheaper too!

Thus, it’s best to book in advance. For example, if you are heading to London, booking trains to London King’s Cross in advance can save you significant amounts compared to anytime fares – so your money can be spent on activities instead.

Similar savings can also be made on flights if you are venturing overseas. Sites like Skyscanner can help you to find the cheapest flights for your preferred destination or timeframe.

Aside from flights and trains, it’s also essential to consider transportation when you arrive at your destination. For instance, booking Orlando transportation services in advance is a good idea if you’re traveling to a popular destination like Orlando. This will not only save you money but will also ensure that you have reliable transportation to and from your hotel and any attractions you plan to visit. 

Accommodation is another factor. As a family, you will need a bigger room and it can be hard to get hold of one – particularly if you are traveling during the school holidays. Making your plan and booking key aspects of your trip in advance will help things run more smoothly, which is always best if traveling with little ones!

Pack Wisely

Traveling with kids means bringing everything they need for comfort and safety. One of the most important things to bring is a first aid kit. This should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any medications your child may need. It’s always better to be prepared for any accidents or illnesses that may arise during your trip.  

Another essential item to pack is a change of clothes for your child. Accidents can happen, and having a spare set of clothes on hand is better than buying new ones while on vacation. Additionally, packing a light jacket or sweater is a good idea, even if you’re traveling to a warm location. Airplanes and hotels can be chilly, and having a coat or sweater can help keep your child comfortable.  

On the other hand, if you’re traveling with a baby, pack plenty of diapers and wipes. Bringing a portable changing pad is also a good idea, as not all restrooms have a changing table. And remember to get a few plastic bags to dispose of dirty diapers.

We also love to use a baby carrier over a stroller while on vacation. It’s easier to get in and out of cabs, hike, cross bumpy roads, and perfect for napping.

Bring toys

If you have little ones, bringing toys with you is a great way to ensure they have things to do to keep them entertained.

Inviting your child to choose their toys means that they are much more likely to want to play with them than if you pick them yourself.

If you are struggling for space, then a great idea is to give them a sealable container such as a lunchbox or pencil case which they can put their toys into. This will give them a limit but will also make packing away much easier.

Downloading some of your favorite films or TV series on a device is also a brilliant way to keep kids of any age entertained while traveling.

Give them their bag

If your kids have reached 3 years old, they will likely now be able to carry their bags on trips which can make things much easier for everyone involved. Not only will this give your child a feeling of responsibility, but it will also reduce the number of items that you as a parent will need to carry along with you.

Of course, you will need to make sure that your child’s bag is appropriately sized and that you can carry it if you are in a rush or your child has decided they’d rather not. But allowing them to take their luggage is a fun privilege!

Purchase attraction tickets before you go

For children of all ages, less is sometimes more when it comes to your holiday activities, so try to avoid meticulously scheduling each day at the risk of your kids getting tired and grouchy and plans to go awry.

You should ask your kids a few things that they would love to do while you are away and then book these experiences if possible. Not only will this save you money, but it may help you to avoid long queues and the tantrums that often form in them!