Someone once said, "It's never too early to start exploring the world." We highly recommend traveling with kids, but we are also aware that it requires meticulous planning and packing. Whether you travel near or far, by air or rail, having a few essential items in your travel bag at all times makes it much easier to travel with young children and enhances the entire family travel experience.
Here is a list of items we always pack when traveling with kids:
1.Entertainment -
Whether it’s a long-distance flight, a road trip, or the time it takes to fix a quick dinner in your Airbnb, having an electronic device (tablet or iPad along with powerbank) loaded with your kids’ favorite cartoons or movies can save you a lot of energy. We also bring books and a small diary and pens for our 8-year-old to jot down her travel experiences, and a colouring book and crayons for our toddler to scribble. Their favorite toys, like a small pack of Legos or tiny dolls, can also be incredibly helpful.
2. Snacks -
Always, always have some snacks handy! Biscuits, sandwiches, fruits, nuts—whatever your kids will eat fuss-free, have it on hand. You never know when you’ll need them: delayed flights, delayed meal service on the plane, long queues at tourist attractions or restaurants—always carry snacks!
3. Water -
Carry water bottles while traveling with kids and keep refilling them as needed. If your toddler uses a sipper, be sure to bring that along. Whether it’s for day trips, hikes, or a beach day, having a water bottle on hand is essential.
4. Extra set of clothes -
Airplanes can be especially tight spaces, particularly during meal service. Add some turbulence to the mix, and you can almost expect spills on someone. No one wants to reach their holiday destination with dirty clothes, whether they’re adults or kids. Just pack a couple of spare outfits for everyone in your cabin luggage to ensure you reach your destination feeling fresh.
We also recommend carrying a sweatshirt for everyone, especially the kids. Airplanes can get cold suddenly, and while you are enjoying the outdoors, the weather can change unexpectedly, even on a previously bright sunny day! Always be prepared for such eventualities by keeping extra layers on hand.
Also, always throw in a small blanket—it works great as a makeshift pillow and is perfect for spontaneous picnics too.
5. Wipes and trash bags !
Never forget those wipes, even when your child is past the diaper stage. Spills, falls, unclean surfaces, messy mouths, and dirty fingers—wipes are a lifesaver. Also, always pack a roll of garbage bags in your bag. You never know what you might need them for.
6. First aid -
Never, ever leave for a vacation without a first aid kit stocked with medicines suitable for your child's age. You don't want to be searching for paracetamol syrup for a fever in the middle of the night in a foreign country. If your child has a specific condition, like asthma, always consult with your doctor before traveling and carry the prescribed medicines or inhalers along with the doctor's prescription.
In general, paracetamol, band-aids, antiseptic lotion, and antiallergic medication should definitely be in your travel bag and easily accessible at all times. When flying, always pack medications in your carry-on luggage.
7. Toothbrushes -
After a long flight, brushing your teeth can make you feel refreshed. You don't want to dig through your entire luggage to find your toothbrush. We recommend packing toothbrushes and a small tube of toothpaste in your carry-on bag. This way, you can get off the plane feeling refreshed and ready to start your adventure.
8. Hand sanitizer -
Little hands often get messy, but you don't have to stop the kids from having fun. Just carry some sanitizer for when they're done playing or want to eat. It helps keep things clean and convenient wherever your adventures take you!
9. Extra pair of shoes -
Now, here's a very important item to pack! Kids run, jump, hike, and often their shoes end up getting dirty or wet. Extra pairs of shoes ensure that little feet stay cozy at all times!
10. Baby carrier -
If you're traveling with a toddler, a baby carrier is an essential item in your day pack. It allows you to explore a city, hike up a mountain, or visit a museum, all while keeping your little one snug and comfortable at all times.
Happy travels!
Comments