Travelling with children is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; every location is a new adventure for them. Their excitement and joy when they see things and ask questions are great learning experiences. Parents must come prepared, whether for a trip to the park, the zoo, or a flight to a new destination. Being prepared and having everything you need just a zipper away will make the experience smoother and more easygoing. This article reviews a kids travel essentials list to make packing and preparation much easier.
Best Travel Essentials For Kids
Entertainment For The Ride
Nothing is worse than having a bored child with ‘nothing to do’ over the commute. Sitting in a car or plane for an hour or more is not the most entertaining. Kids must be in action at all times; simply put, they can’t sit for as long as adults can. Of course, it depends on their age and personality, but it’s always wise to be prepared with some form of entertainment for the ride, whether on an airplane, a train or a car.
Let’s discuss the most sensitive topic amongst parents: screen time. As hard as it is to steer them away from the screen, sometimes it can be a helpful tool. Download some educational games, have a movie or two ready, and walla, you’ve got free entertainment and a peaceful commute.
Snacks
As basic as it seems, make sure you’re prepared. Go to the supermarket specifically for this, buy them snacks they haven’t eaten in a while. This will get them excited and hopefully keep them entertained for longer. Buy various textures and flavours available depending on the amount of commute included in your adventure.
Toys
You may think that travelling can get you out of the toy bubble. No, make sure to bring a few toys. You never know: maybe your flight will be delayed, or they’ll find a quiet moment at the hotel and want to play. Bring toys that won’t take up much space, such as colouring books and markers, books, small toy cars, Play-Doh, etc.
Change of Clothes
Have a change of clothes or even two for your kids and yourself. You never know what will happen—a drink accident, a vomiting child, a sweaty ride—so it’s always good to be prepared. Pack this in your carry-on if you’re flying so you have it near you when you need it.
Portable Charger
This is essential when travelling any distance. Even if you leave the house with full battery or take your charger with you, the convenience of a portable charger hits differently. It can also be helpful for your child’s iPad or tablet.
Travel First Aid Kit
Make your own travel first aid kit and add all the necessities, or buy one with everything included. Be ready for some scratches and falls along the way. It happens, and we all know kids love having bandages on hand, so be prepared with your aid kit.
Baby Carrier
If you have younger kids, you should consider taking a baby carrier. Trips can be tiring for kids, especially the younger ones. A baby carrier will give them the comfort they need and keep your hands free.
Travel Sized Everything
Having some essential travel-sized bottles at all times will save you space and headaches. Prepare a zip-lock bag with essential travel-sized bottles, such as hand sanitiser, toothpaste, mouthwash, wipes, shampoo, and soap.
Individual Backpacks/Diaperbag
If your kids are old enough, it would be great if they were responsible for holding a backpack of their own. It’s one less thing for you to take care of, and along the way, it teaches them to be independent.
Bring a diaper bag if you’re travelling with a baby or toddler who’s not old enough to hold their backpack. Make sure it’s big enough to fit all the necessities you’ll need for the baby, such as a bottle, formula, diaper, wipes, change of clothes, teethers, etc.
Travel Stroller
A travel stroller is necessary if you’re travelling with a toddler or baby. One like the BabyzenYoyo that folds easily and fits in the overhead bin is a bonus. Many brands design strollers for traveling. Do your research and definitely consider taking a stroller along for the ride.
Water Bottles For Kids
Bring those water bottles with you, even though it may seem like an extra item. Getting dehydrated is pretty standard when going on road trips or abroad. The kid’s water bottle will help them remember to drink water throughout the journey and prevent dehydration.
Conclusion – Kids Travel Essentials
Travelling with kids brings some challenges we often don’t expect; however, coming prepared with kids travel essentials can help make the experience more pleasant for everyone involved. Throughout this article, we discussed the most essential items that can help keep the kids entertained and lead to a hassle-free trip. Things like a baby carrier or a first aid kit might not be at the top of your family vacation packing list; however, they can be accommodating. We hope this article can help you pack more efficiently for your next family adventure.
Can a child have a carry-on bag?
Any passenger who has a ticket is eligible to have a carry-on. Check with your airline just to be sure.
What are some essentials for travelling with kids?
When travelling with kids, some essentials that you should consider having with you are a change of clothes, a porta potty if relevant, hand sanitiser, a tablet or iPad for entertainment, some snacks, your child’s water bottle, and the list goes on.
What are some baby travel essentials?
Baby travel essentials include a car seat, stroller, stocked diaper bag, a baby carrier, formula, a portable noise machine for on-the-go naps, etc.
Should I pack my kid’s clothes in packing cubes?
Packing your kids’ clothes in packing cubes can be a great way to stay organized when packing for trips. If you pack one outfit in each cube, this can help your kids get ready on their own. Either way, packing cubes are very useful, if not for clothes, then for basic necessities such as toiletry, shoes, hair accessories, and more.
