Top tips to make the trip with kids more enjoyable

Traveling with small kids can be intimidating, but with the right knowledge, you can make it a success.

Create memories that last a lifetime. I know it sounds cheesy, but my family loves to reminisce about past trips and it leads to planning for future ones. 

Tip # 1:Playgrounds! Do not underestimate the power of a new playground. Whether it is at a resort you are staying at, or near a rest area along the way. My kids have had the most fun exploring playgrounds in new areas. We found a playground at a rest area while driving through the Midwest and it was perfect to break up long days in the car. Kids will enjoy running and playing, no matter how long you plan to stop. Getting them tired for a nap is definitely a plus if they’re napping age. But even older kids often fall asleep on long road trips. 

Tip #2: Plan outfits in advance. Don’t wait til the last minute to pack and throw in countless items of kids clothing thinking it is small. It adds up. But also remember, kids can be messy! So pack a couple of back up outfits so you’re prepared for any scenario.  Packing cubes help keep kids clothes organized, whether its just a bag or 2 per kid, or planned out for everyone’s outfits per day. These cubes have mesh fronts for visibility so I don’t have to open each one and see what is inside. Plus they are soft sided, so if they aren’t full, they aren’t taking up any extra space. 

Tip #3: Plane tips for an easy trip. Pack gum if your child is old enough for that, or some snacks they can chew during take off. Also remind them to swallow, sometimes they do not recognize the pressure change feeling or how to combat it. If your baby is still nursing, that is definitely the best tool. It helps them equalize air pressure and provides comfort in a new environment, and nursing babies will often sleep on flights.

Tip #4: Entertainment. Once your child is old enough for screen time, I recommend bringing tablets and Bluetooth kid headphones. My kids get limited screen time generally, but I do not mind splurging on screen time during airport and plane times for my sanity! Books and lap style toys are also great options! Travel art kits and magnetic play sets that come in a small box are also fun for many kids. 

Tip #5: Wagon. A wagon is a must for so many travel adventures. Our wagon has traveled from Niagra Falls, to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. It allows the kids to have a place to rest when they need it, but it allows for a way to transport so many random things that are needed or accumulate along the way from shopping bags to bottles of water. This heavy duty collapsible wagon has lasted us for years! We have had it over 3 years and have put serious miles on it. Did I mention BEACH? It can hold up a beach trip. I should have said that sooner! The wide wheels are a must for lugging things across the sand. And trust me, I tried a stroller when my 1st baby was young, and I do not recommend it! The wheels are often too narrow to make for easy beach use.  The exact model we have is no longer available, but this is a similar one from the same brand. If a higher weight capacity is something you would like, this wagon has a 330lb weight capacity and appears to have all terrain wheels. 

Tip # 6: Sleeping arrangements for kiddos. Consider sleeping when you plan for hotels. Do your kids each need their own bed, do they sleep with you, can they share with siblings. Check if your hotel comes with a sleeper sofa. We have even taken the mattress off a sleeper sofa and just used it on the ground with the same bedding so there was less concern with falling when our kids were young. Plus they sometimes just find it more fun, like a camp out scenario.  Some hotels offer rollaway beds or cots. And if you are family bed sleepers like my family tends to be, 2 queen beds make for a King if that is all thats available. So if youre up for some arranging, we have moved nightstands and beds to make a King out of 2 Queen beds so there was no chaos amongst the littles and the sleeping arrangements. Otherwise, it would have been mom trapped with 2 littles on a Queen and Dad getting the whole Queen bed to himself. =/ LOL. 

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget a first aid kit! No, I’m not saying you need to go to the store for a special first aid kit, but grab a small bag and add the essentials. Include bandaids, antibiotic ointment, wipes, hand sanitizer, and any medicine you could need such as children’s ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and an antihistamine such as benadryl or cetirizine. Kids love to spring on the excitement with a random bug or injury. 

Thanks for reading and I hope this helps you travel with less stress and have a tale to tell! Every trip can be magical. 

–Heather

Tiger Tales Travel

Find me on IG! @Tigertalestravel  FB: @Tigertalestravel  

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