Travelling with babies and toddlers can be both exciting and challenging. From keeping them entertained to ensuring they are well-fed and have plenty of activities, there are several factors to consider for a smooth Travel experience.  In this post, we will share ten essential tips to help you navigate the world of travel with little ones, keeping both parents and children happy throughout the journey.

Plan Ahead and Be Prepared:

Before your trip, research and plan your itinerary with your child in mind. Consider their nap times, meal times, and potential entertainment options at your destination. If possible, plan daytime flights to minimse disruption and try to keep the bulk of car journeys to nap times to minimise the work! 

Make a checklist of essential items to have easily accessible such as nappies, wipes, extra clothes (for you and baby!) and medication.  

Keep Them Entertained:

Long journeys can be tedious for young children so it is essential to have plenty of entertainment options.  We love the Crayola Mess Free colouring range for travel and sticker books are also a great option.  We also always Pack 3-4 tubs of Playdoh and a few accessories; it is surprisingly mess free and great for planes, trains and even restaurants.  Putting together a small bag of mini figures, stacking cups and even 10-15 pieces or Duplo can be more than enough to keep a toddler entertained.  

All that said, don’t be afraid to use some screen time to keep them busy.  It can be a useful way to pass time when you need to keep them in their seats and you need a few minutes of peace!  Just make sure you have downloaded their favourite shows or games ahead of time.  

Snacks and Formula:

Pack a variety of snacks that are easy to eat and don’t require much preparation. We tend to get a selection of sweet and savoury foods and we don’t take anything that needs to be kept cold so that if it doesn’t get eaten that day, it isn’t wasted.  When you think you have enough snacks, pack 3 or 4 more! 

For formula-fed babies, prepare bottles in advance or bring single-serve formula packs to make feeding easier, if flying you can order formula ‘airside’ from Boots to avoid taking it all in your suitcase.  This also ensures if your suitcase is lost you still have formula! If flying, feeding (breast or bottle) on the way up and down is a great way to avoid the air pressure affecting little ones ears.  

Comfortable Clothing:

Dress your little one in comfortable and breathable clothing, suitable for the climate of your destination. Layering is the best bet to accommodate temperature changes during flights. Be sure to opt for clothes that are easy to change their nappy in; plane changing facilities are very cramped! I tend to opt for sleepsuits for babies and leggings and t-shirts with cardigans/jumpers for toddlers.   Don’t forget to pack extra clothes in your carry-on in case of spills or accidents.

Carry a Baby Carrier or Pushchair:

A baby carrier or lightweight pushchair can be a lifesaver during travel. It allows you to navigate crowded airports or tourist spots with ease while keeping your hands free. We have loved the Babyzen Yoyo for this reason; it is a pushchair compact enough to fit in the overhead compartment of a plane. Even if taking a cabin friendly pushchair, I always recommend also taking a carrier.  If the cabin is full, pushchairs are the first thing to go in the hold. It is also handy to have both options if you have a toddler and a baby! 

Top Tip: more airlines will allow you to put 2-3 baby items in the hold for free.  This can be a pushchair, travel cot or car seat.  Whatever you decide to take, ensure you put it in a bag (these can be purchased cheaply from Amazon) to avoid it getting dirty.  You can also stuff the bag with extras like nappies and clothes! 

Plan Rest Stops:

If you’re traveling by car, plan regular Rest Stops for nappy changes, stretching, and feeding breaks. Research family-friendly rest areas along your route, which often have amenities such as play areas and changing facilities. We tend to plan UK travel routes around National Trust properties or play parks to wear the children out a bit before the next leg of the journey.  It also means you can pack a picnic for these stops and avoid having to pay for expensive service station food.  

Pack Essential Medications and First Aid:

Ensure you have any necessary medications your child might need during the trip; it is always useful to have an infant pain relief as well as antihistamine in case they are required. Additionally, pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and other basic supplies for minor injuries or illnesses. Keep these in your hand luggage for easy access. 

Be Flexible and Patient:

Traveling with babies and toddlers requires a lot of flexibility and patience. Unexpected delays or changes in plans are inevitable, so try to stay calm and adapt to the situation. We have always accepted that plane journeys mean turning into a CBeebies presenter and becoming our children’s personal inflight entertainer; the dedicated attention and lack of distractions has always meant our children have been excited for that special time on the plane.  

Traveling with babies and toddlers doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead, keeping them entertained and prepared, and embracing flexibility, you can create a stress-free travel experience for the whole family. Remember to pack essential items, keep your little ones entertained with toys and activities, and plan rest stops for breaks and feeding. 

Remember, traveling with young children requires careful planning and preparation, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By following these tips, you can create lasting memories and enjoyable adventures for both you and your little ones. Bon voyage!