Tips for Stress Free Traveling with Kids This Summer

Traveling with kids for summer vacation can feel like a big task, but with a bit of planning, it can also be filled with joy and adventure. As parents, we all want to make sure the trip runs smoothly and everyone arrives at their destination happy (or at least not too cranky). Here are some tips to help make your vacation travels a breeze!

1. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Trip

The more you plan, the better! Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking a train, knowing what to expect will save you time and stress. If you’re flying, check airline policies for families, and book seats together in advance. If it’s a road trip, map out your rest stops and fun breaks.

Having a list of key information—flight times, hotel check-ins, transportation details—keeps you one step ahead and helps avoid last-minute scrambles.

2. Pack Smart for Kids

When it comes to traveling with kids, over packing is tempting, but keeping things manageable will save your sanity. Here’s what to focus on:

• Essentials: Diapers, wipes, snacks, water, and a change of clothes for each child.

• Entertainment: Bring along books, coloring supplies, small toys, or tablets preloaded with kid-friendly apps and shows for long stretches of boredom.

• Comfort Items: Blankets, stuffed animals, or favorite toys help kids feel secure during the trip.

• Snacks: Pack a variety of snacks to keep little ones content and to prevent hunger-fueled meltdowns. Think easy-to-eat, non-messy snacks like crackers, cheese sticks, fruit, and pouches.

3. Travel with a Nanny or Babysitter

If your nanny is available, consider asking them to come along! Traveling with an extra set of hands can be a game changer. They can help entertain the kids, manage their needs, and allow you to relax and enjoy the trip a bit more. Plus, children often behave better when there’s structure and someone familiar to guide them.

If you don’t have a full-time nanny but need help for the trip, services like Southern Coast Nannies can help you find trusted caregivers who can accompany you for part of the trip or meet you at your destination.

4. Give Yourself Extra Time

Whether it's getting to the airport or driving to Grandma’s, everything takes longer with kids in tow. Build in extra time for bathroom breaks, stretching their legs, and dealing with any unexpected hiccups like traffic or tantrums. When you’re not in a rush, the journey becomes more enjoyable for everyone.

5. Keep Bedtime Routines Intact

Kids thrive on routine, so try to stick to your regular bedtime routine, even while traveling. Bring their favorite pajamas, read a bedtime story, and maintain the steps that comfort them. This consistency will help them adjust to different time zones or environments.

6. Prepare for the Unexpected

No matter how much planning you do, things may not go exactly as expected. Maybe your flight gets delayed, or your toddler decides they hate the car seat halfway through the trip. Roll with the punches and remember that flexibility is key. Bringing extra snacks and toys, and even having backup plans for entertainment, will make the unexpected easier to manage.

7. Break the Trip into Manageable Chunks

If you’re driving, break the trip into smaller, kid-friendly segments. Plan stops at fun places like parks or kid-friendly restaurants where they can run around and let off steam. For longer flights or train rides, use that time for small breaks—whether it’s walking around the cabin or having a “mini snack break.”

8. Engage Kids in the Travel Experience

Make your kids part of the journey! Let them help you pack (even if it’s just their toys), pick out travel snacks, or choose which game to play in the car. Keeping them engaged makes them feel more excited about the trip and less focused on the long journey ahead.

9. Dress Comfortably

When traveling, comfort is key. Dress your kids (and yourself!) in layers that are easy to adjust based on temperature changes. Also, slip-on shoes are a great option for airport security or quick stops during road trips.

10. Make It Fun!

Lastly, try to keep things lighthearted and fun. Play games like “I Spy,” have a sing-along, or come up with fun activities that fit the trip. Vacations are all about family, and making the journey enjoyable will really set everyone off on the right foot.

Safe travels!