10 Essential Toddler Tips for Travel

Have you ever come home from a vacation only to feel like you need another one? Traveling with a toddler is stressful. With so many aspects to consider, it is easy to become overwhelmed. Read on to learn the ten toddler tips for travel that can make your trip easier to handle.

Pack Snacks

If your child is hungry, then stress follows. Preparing snacks ahead of time will save you money and means less time seeking out food. Additionally, if your child has allergies, then you will have more peace of mind knowing that you are traveling risk-free. Be safe and seek out containers that are designed to keep food at the proper temperature for extended periods of time. Lastly, ask your airline which foods you are allowed to bring on the plane.

Get Your Child a Passport

If you forget your child's passport, then your entire travel plans will be ruined. When crossing borders, toddlers are accounted for the same as adults. Think ahead and ensure that your child's passport arrangements are in order. This includes checking the expiration date and if need be, applying for a new one far in advance so you obtain it in time.

Secure Their Car Seat

There are many types of modern car seats that make road trips easier. For example, convertible car seats come with many benefits for you and your toddler. A huge benefit of traveling with a convertible car seat is that with some models, you can detach it from the base and use it to carry your child. This saves you from having to reinstall the seat every time you stop to rest. Additionally, some older children get bored during long car rides and they enjoy the flexibility and variety that this type of seat offers.

Bring Entertainment

The type of entertainment you travel with depends on your mode of transportation. If you are traveling by plane, find out if the airline allows you to bring toys on the plane and if so, which kind of toys are allowed. While in the car, if you give them a toy that requires supervision, then ask yourself if you want to spend time facing backward. If you choose to bring a book, then will you get car sick while reading to them?

Learn Airline Regulations

When flying with a toddler, it is important to educate yourself on the guidelines that are specific to the airline you are using. Some airlines are more family-friendly than others so it is a good idea to research ahead of time. Your family's needs may affect which airline you choose. Some of the most common things to find out is whether or not you need to purchase an extra seat for your child and if so, which type of car seat is appropriate.

Check Ticket Guidelines

Traveling with toddlers is not like bringing them to the movies. When purchasing tickets for trains and airplanes, children do not always get in for free and their tickets are not necessarily discounted. Be sure to find out the exact pricing for your child's travel tickets.

Bring Your Medical Records

Having your child's medical records on hand can be life-saving. Carry important information regarding insurance, vaccinations, allergies and chronic health conditions such as diabetes. If you carry this information electronically, then consider having their paperwork on-hand as well. This makes information more accessible to outside responders in case of an emergency.

Travel According to Your Toddler's Schedule

Try to plan your travel schedule around your child's schedule. When traveling by plane, it is smart to find a time that coincides with your child's sleep schedule. When traveling by car, pre-plan your route in accordance with available rest stops. Be sure these rest stops are safe and have family-friendly facilities. If you are bringing your meals with you, then find out if the rest stop has an area where you can eat without having to make a purchase.

Purchase Tickets Ahead of Time

Whether you are traveling by train, plane or going to an amusement park, you can save yourself stress by purchasing tickets ahead of time. Most websites make this very easy and sometimes offer discounts as incentives. Consider keeping an electronic and printed version.

Try The PiggyBack Rider

For an even easier time toting your toddler around while you travel, try the Piggyback Rider! Browse our selection of carriers here.

There are many more things to think about when it comes to traveling with your toddler. It may seem like a lot of work, but taking the time to prepare will significantly reduce stress and headaches and give you more time to enjoy with your family.