Tips for Traveling With Children
We have taken many road trips over the years, with our almost-eight-year-old son. We started taking road trips when he was about two, and have learned many tips along the way. Certainly the experience has become easier as he has become older!
Here are some of our tips:
Always over pack for your child. Bring extra sets of clothes, extra diapers or underwear. Bring clothes for all types of weather. You may not use all of that stuff, but if a spill happens, or the weather changes, you'll be glad you had it with you.
Always bring simple snacks and drinks with you. Having a snack and drink in the car will help to entertain your child, and will also prevent them from becoming hungry and thirsty, or dehydrated. This will save time, and whining!
Especially if you have a picky eater, try to get a hotel room with a fridge. That way, you can store snacks, juice and other drinks. Often a child will not eat as well when at a theme park or other attraction, and you may want to have healthy snacks on hand when you return to your room.
Make sure to pack your child's favorite bed-time blanket and/or pillow, and stuffed animal. You may also want to pack a night light.
Have your child pick out several toys, games, or activities to bring in a small back pack or tote bag. They can use these items in the car or in a hotel room.
On a long drive, plan to make at least one or two stops along the way for bathroom breaks, snacks, and just to get out of the car and stretch.
Pack any emergency medicines and first aid items that you may need. If your child spikes a fever at midnight, you may not want to have to run out to buy children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen. You should pack a children's antihistamine as well, along with band-aids.
Make sure to take a camera to record all of the fun! Your child will love to look back on the photographs and/or videos.