How To Pack For Hassle Free Travel With Toddlers

By Author: Sarah McDermott
Total Articles: 143
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Traveling with babies can seem like a piece of cake when compared to kids who are already mobile. Toddlers and preschoolers are a lot more difficult to keep still during long flight, and packing for them will have to account for options to keep them entertained.

Pack wisely. Take along a couple of easy to play games in your carry on baggage. Or take a pack of cheerios, some thread and ask them to string along to make a necklace. Remember, they won't be occupied with just one activity for the entire time you're on the flight - so make sure you have a choice of toys or games or other activities that you plan to use when they get tired of one.

Pack their favorite snacks too. This is not a time to be thinking of calories - just pack whatever they love. Avoid sugary snacks. The energy levels make a kid hyperactive - the last thing you need on a flight!

Also, take an extra change of clothes for each child in case of emergencies, where there's spillage or even vomit. Pack as many moist and dry wipes that you think you need, and then add a couple of more packs. You can never pack enough wipes for kids on travel!

While ...
... packing, remember to make a list before you begin throwing stuff in haphazardly. Keep this checklist with you, and use it to tick off to make sure you haven't left anything behind on the journey back.

You can never have too many clothes for a toddler on travel. If you're heading off to a winter destination, you need plenty of sweaters and coats; for a beach resort, take plenty of light airy breezy clothes made of cotton, swim wear and sun block.

Take some emergency medication for a fever or a cold.

While booking flights, choose one during the morning when the kids are fresh, and not likely to get as cranky. If there are going to be connecting flights, try to have at least an hour or two between connecting flights. This will give your kids enough time to run around on ground, and stretch their legs.

Pack your child's favorite meal in a thermos, and make sure to keep plastic cutlery and bibs too.

Don't leave behind your child's favorite stuffed toy. The trick is to make the plane ride seem as much like home as possible, so he's comforted instead of edgy. His favorite teddy bear is also a must.