Are We There Yet? 10 Essential Tips for Traveling with Children
Traveling with children can be a mix of excitement and chaos. From the infamous “Are we there yet?” to navigating TSA Security, family vacations bring their own unique challenges. As a parent, you need more than just patience—you need a game plan. After years of family road trips and flights (hello, 2019 Disney adventure with a toddler and an infant!), I’ve gathered the best tips for traveling with children to ensure everyone enjoys the journey.
Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country trip or a quick weekend getaway, these tips will help you stay prepared, organized, and, most importantly, sane!
1. Pack Light but Smart
Less is More
It’s tempting to pack for every possible scenario—extra clothes, snacks, toys, and even the kitchen sink (just in case). But trust me, the lighter your load, the better. Lugging heavy bags through airports or stuffing them into your car only adds unnecessary stress. Focus on the essentials. For longer trips, consider renting gear at your destination to lighten the load.
Pro Tip: Many car rental companies offer child safety seats, and some hotels can provide cribs or childproof rooms if requested ahead of time. Call before you pack to find out what you can skip.
2. Prepare for the Unexpected
While packing light is key, you must be ready for surprises—especially with kids. Keep a well-stocked carry-on that includes:
- Diapers and wipes (trust me, they’re lifesavers for more than just diaper changes!)
- Medications your child may need
- A change of clothes for everyone
- Snacks—lots of them
- A surprise activity like a coloring book or puzzle to keep them occupied when all else fails.
3. Bring Quiet Toys and Games
Keep Them Entertained—Silently
Avoid the temptation to bring noisy toys. I learned this the hard way when my daughter’s singing Barney doll almost drove us (and every other passenger) to the brink during a five-hour flight. Instead, pack quiet toys, like coloring books, puzzles, or card games, to keep little ones busy without disturbing others.
For older kids, consider letting them pack their own backpacks. Give them the freedom to choose their favorite books, games, or gadgets. The catch? They have to carry their own bags, so they’ll quickly learn to pack only what they need!
Parents, take note: Double-check what they pack. Once, we learned the hard way that Play-Doh can be flagged by TSA as a potential explosive device. Yes, you read that right.
4. Car Seats Are Free (and Can Save You Money!)
Airlines will not charge you to check your car seat, so take advantage! Get a sturdy car seat cover, check it at the gate, and you’re good to go. Here’s a little insider hack I use—if my checked suitcase is over the 50-lb limit, I sneak a few extra items into the car seat bag. Most airlines won’t weigh it!
5. Purchase a Seat for Your Toddler
Though children under two can fly for free on your lap, consider purchasing a seat for longer flights. The extra space allows them to wiggle around without disturbing others, and it dramatically reduces the chances of a mid-flight meltdown. Be sure to bring documentation, like a birth certificate, to prove your child’s age when flying.
6. Know the TSA Rules
Navigating airport security with kids can be a headache if you’re not prepared. Here’s what you need to know:
- Baby formula, breast milk, juice, and medications are allowed in quantities over three ounces, even if not in a zip-top bag.
- Be ready to take off your kids’ shoes, so go for easy-to-remove footwear like Velcro sneakers or sandals.
- Practice breaking down your stroller beforehand so you can pass through security quickly.
7. Save on Meals with “Kids Eat Free” Deals
Eating out with a family can add up fast, but there are ways to cut down on costs. Look for restaurants where kids eat free—many offer this perk on certain days. During our 2019 Orlando trip, we saved a ton by hitting up spots where the little ones could eat free with the purchase of adult meals.
Kids are often too excited or tired to eat much, so don’t be shy about asking for extra plates to split meals. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the kids’ picky appetites!
8. Bring Your Own Stroller to Theme Parks
Theme parks can charge $7 to $30 a day to rent a stroller. Bringing your own not only saves money but also ensures comfort for your child. Plus, you can load it up with snacks, sunscreen, and anything else you need for a long day of fun!
9. Refill Water Bottles to Save Money
A family of four can easily spend over $20 a day just on bottled water. Bring your own refillable water bottles to save big. Many hotels, restaurants, and theme parks offer free refills, which can add up to significant savings by the end of your trip.
10. Be Flexible and Go with the Flow
The Most Important Tip
No matter how well you plan, things will go wrong. Long lines, delayed flights, heavy traffic, and cranky kids are par for the course. The key to a successful family vacation is to stay flexible. A meltdown can turn into a funny memory (eventually), and those unexpected moments often make for the best stories. Embrace the chaos, and remember that travel is an adventure for everyone involved!
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Ride!
Traveling with children isn’t always easy, but with a bit of planning and flexibility, you can make it an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Want to make your next trip even smoother? Consider checking out some of my favorite travel gear for kids on Amazon here.
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