My children are all grown up now, which means when we travel I don’t have to organize activities or bring snacks anymore (although I do still stash some granola bars in my bag, just in case). But if you’ll be traveling with little ones, I have some great ideas to keep them occupied and to guide you with some of my helpful travel tips.
First and foremost, I recommend that everyone bring his or her own backpack or bag. I always find fun and fashionable ones from Zappos.com. (They have cute shoes too!) In their own bags, each child can pack in their favorite blankie or fuzzy and maybe a gadget or two. Throw in some junk food surprises, too. For vacation trips, it’s okay and they’ll love the discovery! Avoid too many sugary items, for obvious reasons, but a bag of Cheetos will go a long way with smiling faces and orange Cheeto-dusted fingers. Ha!
Before I jump in the car, board a plane or train; I prepare a bag full of portable meals, snacks and drinks. If you’re taking a plane, obviously purchase drinks after going through security, and since airlines do not provide free meals anymore (unless you’re going on a journey for more than eight hours) a meal is in order! Way back when, I used to wrap all my kids snacks in colorful paper. They loved tearing into their secret surprise gifts. Awww the element of surprise – kids crave surprises!
A big packing tip for kids who “have teeth” is to wrap a big apple (not cut into wedges) in a paper towel. Don’t forget the ribbon or bow! When they open the healthy snack and start to eat it, the paper towel/wrapping paper helps catch the juicy mess. Plus, apple eating for a little one will take a very long time since their cute little mouths can only chomp into small pieces. I call this one an “activity snack!”
As I previously mentioned, kids love surprises. I can’t stress this enough in regards to traveling. So why not wrap gifts or snacks and let your children open one every hour of your trip? This especially comes in handy when you have a very long voyage ahead. I know this seems like you’re spoiling them, but believe me, you want them to be entertained so that you can read, get some shut-eye or drive!
Another fun tip is to bring a disposable camera so they can take a photo wherever or whatever they want without running the risk of damaging your camera or phone. And yes, disposable cameras are still available, but the film developing might be a little bit pricey. Oh well, it will keep them occupied and help them make lasting memories!
If you’re flying, I recommend reserving the bulkhead seats. These seats provide more room for a small young’un to play on the floor. (Spread down a blanket first!) The biggest problem with the bulkhead is that the armrests don’t lift up and might be cumbersome for a sleepy toddler who wants to lie across your lap. Also, remember to BOARD EARLY with your children. This gives you more time to get the kids settled, you settled and to nab some space in the overhead compartment.
If you need help packing, creating little surprises for your kids or even planning your next family adventure, Just Ask!
Now, who’s ready for a trip?
