Once upon a time, before I was blessed with two beautiful children, I was one of those women who would decide to go off to other countries for the weekend, just for fun. I would just show up at the airport and jump on the next available plain. My partner and I saw Milan, Brussels, Paris and Dublin in this way. We also traveled through Europe and Asia by train. We had the time of our lives, but those days are long gone now. These days, getting to know our own neighborhood, which we never used to see much of, has become an adventure.
Small kids and spontaneous, last minute travel are not a very good combination. Flying with kids, or traveling by train or car, or by boat, can be a bit daunting – especially if you have never done it before! Yet it can be done, and it can be a lot of fun too. If you are one of those people who just likes to pack your bags and go, you probably won’t like the extra organization that is required when you travel with kids much. But if you want the journey to be fun for the whole family, preparation is key. Here are some tips that will make traveling with kids just as enjoyable as traveling on your own used to be.
Go with the flow
When you travel with babies, toddlers or preschoolers, unexpected things will happen. They usually involve diapers, spilled drinks, nearly missing your plane, or tantrums. When you expect the unexpected, and accept the situation as it is, you will be able to stay calm and enjoy yourself. Relax, and let your journey unfold itself.
Take extra clothes in your hand luggage
You will need them. Perhaps this sounds over the top to some, but I personally like to take two additional outfits for both kids, a few more diapers than I think I will need, and one change of clothes for me as well. This is, of course, in addition to other clothes you will need once you reach your destination. Wet wipes are also essential for any trip you take with small kids.
Bring new toys
Kids love playing with new toys. Before your trip, buy some that you think will keep your kids busy for a while, and wrap them in several layers of wrapping paper. These toys don’t have to be expensive, and it is best to assume they might get lost or broken during trhe journey. Older kids enjoy having a journal sop they can document their travels and share their adventures with their friends once they return home.
September 21st, 2010
Tushar Mathur
Posted in


