Traveling with kids can be one of the best things you’ll ever do, but it also comes with its share of chaos. Forget the picture-perfect version you see online. Real family travel takes strategy, patience, and a sense of humor.
After a few trips of our own, we’ve learned some less obvious tricks that can make the experience smoother for everyone.
🧴 1. Split the Boarding Process
If you’re traveling with a toddler, have one parent board the plane first. That parent can wipe down the seats and tray tables, get snacks and toys ready, and organize the bags so everything you’ll need mid-flight is within reach.
Then the other parent boards with the toddler once most passengers are seated. It keeps your little one from sitting on the plane too long before takeoff and helps prevent early meltdowns.
🎒 2. Pack “Activity Bags” Instead of Toys
Rather than stuffing a bag full of random toys, try packing small activity kits by theme. Have one for coloring, one for small fidget toys, and one for snacks or puzzles. Pull out one at a time during the trip to keep things fresh and interesting.
Tip: Dollar stores and Target’s dollar section are perfect for finding inexpensive items that travel well and won’t cause stress if they get lost.
🍱 3. Bring Real Food, Not Just Snacks
Airport and airplane food can be unpredictable, especially for kids. Bring simple, no-mess meals like mini sandwiches, fruit, or pasta salad in small containers. Familiar food can help kids feel more comfortable when routines are off.
💺 4. Choose Flights Around Nap or Quiet Time
When possible, book flights that overlap with nap time or early morning hours. Overnight flights might sound convenient, but overtired toddlers rarely sleep on schedule. Late morning or early afternoon flights usually strike the right balance.
🪄 5. Choose Function Over Style
Matching luggage looks nice, but backpacks are usually the better choice when traveling with kids. You’ll want both hands free for passports, holding little hands, or carrying emergency snacks.
📱 6. Download Everything Before You Leave
From movies to maps, make sure everything is downloaded while you still have Wi-Fi. Streaming can be unreliable during travel, especially on planes or in remote areas. It’s also smart to download a few offline games or approved shows for when delays happen.
🏨 7. Pick Hotels That Make Life Easier
A family-friendly hotel means more than just having a pool. Look for places that offer:
- Rooms with kitchenettes or separate sleeping areas
- On-site laundry
- Easy access to grocery stores or quick meals
- Late checkout options
If the hotel has a family concierge or kids club, take advantage of it. Even an hour of downtime can make a big difference.
👶 8. Pack a “Just in Case” Kit
This small kit can save you from countless stressful moments. Include hand wipes, medicine, tissues, an extra outfit for everyone, and a few ziplock bags for spills or messes. Keep it somewhere easy to grab when you need it.
☀️ 9. Plan One “Big” Activity a Day
Don’t overload your schedule. One main activity per day—whether it’s a beach day, a hike, or a museum visit—is plenty when you’re traveling with kids. Fill the rest of the day with unplanned time, small stops, and rest. You’ll actually enjoy the trip instead of racing through it.
💛 10. Keep Your Expectations Flexible
Even the most carefully planned trip will have moments that don’t go as expected. There will be delays, spills, and meltdowns. But those moments often turn into the stories you’ll laugh about later.
Family travel isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating memories together and finding joy in the unexpected moments along the way.