Before the kids came along we could pack light and at the last minute. We also often travelled with a loose itinerary and possibly drank more wine than we should. We only had ourselves to please, we could go and do what we wanted to do when we wanted to do it. Then the kids came along and our style and the way we travel changed instantly. Therefore, we have put together this list of useful tips for travelling with kids that we find helps keep them happy and us headache free.
Allow Plenty of Time
The most important thing we have learnt and one of the biggest tips for travelling with kids we can give is to give yourselves plenty of time to do everything. Even simple tasks can become chores when you have children with you. Therefore build in extra time in your itinerary. This is just in case things overrun. This could mean a toilet incident or there is the need for an outfit change? We’ve found that if we start to get stressed the kids act up more! With that in mind, we always give ourselves some breathing space i.e. setting off earlier than necessary, leaving gaps between activities etc.
Always Plan/Book Ahead
Even before the Coronavirus reared its nasty little head, resulting in having to book everything in advance now, we did. Thinking about your itinerary prior to taking your trip lets you book the best getaway possible. This is because you have time to do your research and include things that are suitable for all the family. We know for a fact deciding what to do on the fly with kids in tow can result in tears and tantrums (and that’s just ours). When we book in advance we know what we are doing and when. This then allows us to get excited about what we have planned.
Keep Germs Away
Talking about Coronavirus, it is likely that it is going to be around for quite some time. If like us you want to get on with life then there are some preventative measures we should still take. This includes carrying antibacterial wipes and a hand sanitiser. Obviously, these items have become the norm over the past 16 months or so. Therefore it’s likely that you already have them in your bag. However, if you think about it it, kids are horrendous little germ spreaders in general. So even if ‘Rona does sling her hook, what’s the harm in still wiping down surfaces and gelling hands?
Pack For All Weathers
We don’t know about you, but we check the weather forecast at least 10 times a day before taking any trip. We do that to ensure that we pack the relevant clothes. Or at least we used to pre-kids. Now we pack for all protentional weathers if there is even the slightest chance it will fluctuate. From shorts and t-shirts through to winter woollies, we try to take it all. The number of times we were caught out (particularly wellies – even in summer!) before giving in and packing everything was not funny. Kids who are cold, or wet and whingey are definitely not fun travel companions.
Pack A First Aid Kit
Talking of whingey kids, have you ever had one while on holiday because they have fallen and cut their knee or simply not felt themselves? We have. Therefore one of our most useful tips for travelling with kids is don’t forget to pack a child-focussed first aid kit. We have always travelled with a first aid kit – plasters, antihistamines and the all-important Dirolite (perfect for the runs and hangovers). However, when the kids joined the team we also added a thermometer, magic cream (Sudacrem), cream for bites and stings and the universally acknowledged miracle medical – Calpol.
Download Some Apps
We don’t really like the kids having too much screen time. However, sometimes needs must and while travelling is one of them. We find downloading some fun, yet (obviously) educational apps to their tablets to keep them entertained during the actual travelling part of taking a trip. It also takes their minds of snacks and asking for the 5 millionth time – ‘are we there yet?’ We also download some TV shows and films for them to watch too when they start to get tired. This again can pass another couple of hours or so which is great if you are taking a long road trip or a long haul flight.
Bring A Pillow
Talking of tired children why not bring a pillow on your journey? Our youngest has a pillow that she sleeps on every night. She has done since the day she came to live with us. It helps her sleep and it comes with her on every trip we take. We let her take it in the car. We will also let her take it on planes when we are able again. Sleep is so important for children. Therefore we do everything in our power to ensure they have a good night’s rest. Our eldest doesn’t have a particular pillow. However, when the time comes to fly again, we will get her a cute travel pillow to aid her sleep.
Invest In A Child Locator
When Mini ESLT was finding her feet we used a little backpack with a handle on it. She had the freedom to explore at her own pace but could not wander off. Now she walks wonderfully and will hold hands to cross roads etc. However, she has a tendency to migrate to things that looks more fun than what we are doing. Even though we watch her like hawks, we still have the worry that she may ‘disappear’. Therefore a child locater is a great option. The child wears a small device on their shoe/belt etc, you keep the transmitter and if your child goes missing, set off the alarm and follow the sound until you find them.
Use Public Transport
This may be a weird entry on a list of tips for travelling with kids but please hear me out. If like us you have never had to rely on public transport or have in fact actively sought ways not to have to use it when you have the kids with you, this may shock you. Kids love public transport! We completely understand if children have been brought up using it regularly, even on a daily basis they may not be as excited as others. But if your child hasn’t travelled on a bus or train they will lose their minds when they do. The sheer joy of the journey is evident on their faces and it scores you some parent points too.
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