Travel time is the best time to unwind and relax. Embarking on travel safe with a toddler comes with its own set of challenges. Parents have to plan everything and be ready. The toddler must be given priority in all travel plans. Since toddlers are very active and curious, every step has to be taken judiciously, right from choosing the destination, the mode of transport, other requirements, etc.
With a toddler on board, it is of utmost importance that every detail is seen thoroughly. The safety of the toddler is of utmost importance, so as parents one has to double check everything. This means that even though one is ready, at times certain things happen that are not thought of. Read this article for tips on how to travel safe with a toddler.
In This Article
Before The Trip
It is important to do pre-planning before setting out on a trip with a toddler. This is the first step to travel safe with a toddler. Much before the trip starts, there are certain pointers that must be taken into consideration. Some important ones are-
1. Choose Destination Well
- Look for a safe option that is comfortable for travel safe with a toddler
- Going to a beach resort or near water bodies is not a great option, as it can result in mishaps for the toddler
- It is better to go to places that offer more relaxation to all and cut down on worries
- Do not look for excursions or trips to a distant island or forest, as these places are remote and will not offer all types of facilities, especially medical ones
2. Book Toddler-friendly Accommodations
- Look for resorts that are toddler-friendly and offer activities that keep them engaged so that the parents can relax
- Some five-star hotels and resorts have small pools, trampolines, and play areas set up to keep the toddlers engaged
- Since there is a toddler on the trip, one can even look for hotels or resorts that offer few facilities that are handy to the parents. Eg: a mini refrigerator that helps in storing the expressed milk is ideal for breastfeeding mothers
3. Ensure Toddler is Vaccinated
- It is not advisable to take the toddler for vaccinations very near to the travel time (1)
- Keep the toddler vaccinated well in advance
It is common for toddlers to develop rashes or have a high fever right after vaccination - A routine check-up before going on a trip is advisable to rule out all possibilities and be sure nothing is wrong with the toddler
4. Pack Smart
It is important to have a checklist when on a trip with a toddler. A few items to keep on your checklist are:
- Wipes – Dry as well as wet
- Diaper and diaper bag
- Blankets and pillows
- Sheets
- Napkins and face towels
- Changing sheet
- Blankets and pillows
- Disinfectants and sanitizers
- Disposal bags
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for the toddler
- Clothes, undergarments, etc.
- Bibs
- Toys, cuddle dolls, and books
- Toddler-friendly sunscreen/hats/swimming costume
- Feeding utensils, water cups, and bottles
- Snacks
- Medicines and first aid
- Washing soap
- Car seat and foldaway stroller
- Tissues
- Baby carrier
- Formula milk
5. Decide on a Mode of Transportation For Travel
- Deciding what mode of transport is suitable with the toddler is a good idea
- Different requirements depend on the mode chosen
- Flying by a plane, traveling in a train, or a car have different requirements
Let us discuss what one must have depending on the mode of travel.
When Traveling by Plane
- It is a good idea to do an early check-in with a toddler to make them comfortable
- Keep the toddler’s stuff in hand luggage for easy access
- Carry picture books and a few small toys that can help keep the toddler busy on the plane and during waiting time
- Pack snacks and finger foods to prevent your toddler from becoming cranky due to hunger
- Always have a blanket and a pillow when on a long flight
- Help the toddler chew something like raisins or any fruit to ease out the pain that the toddler will experience at the time of take-off and landing (2)
When Traveling by Train, Bus, or Car
- It is good to have a car seat when traveling in a car or a bus
- Toddlers are very inquisitive as well as curious and can try to peep outside
- Keep the child lock on when traveling with a toddler
- Keep the seat belt fastened
- Never leave the toddler unattended when traveling on a train as it can be risky
During The Trip
Once the pre-planning is done, it is also important to have a look at what all will come handy while on the trip. Some points for the same are-
6. Ensure Toddler is Comfortable
- The comfort of the toddler is of utmost importance for a smooth trip
- Give them lots of options to be busy; otherwise, they can get cranky and it will become difficult to manage them
7. Pack Sufficient Eatables And Water
- It is advisable to have loads of snacks and food for your toddler
- It is good to have fruits, healthy snacks, nuts, etc. for the journey.
- Carry good homemade food options to prevent the toddler from falling sick while on a trip
- Keep them well hydrated
If for some reason, one has to opt for food from outside, ensure certain points, like-
- The food is the size of a small bite
- It is not raw or uncooked
- Prefer steamed food as there are fewer chances of allergy
- Do not try new dishes, as there are high chances of allergies
- Even when giving food from outside, use the baby’s utensils only
8. Keep Toddler Engaged/Entertained
- Keeping their favorite toys, books, etc. handy is a great option
- Plan small game times with them
- Interact with them and connect during the journey; otherwise, they might get restless
9. Keep a Basic First Aid Kit Handy
- Keep all of the basic medicines handy
- For all sorts of cuts and wounds, keep bandages and cotton ready
- Keep a good stock of all medicines that might come to rescue if one cannot procure it at the destination
10. Keep Time For Breaks on Your Trip
- If going by road, take short breaks for the toddler to move about
- A toddler’s age is full of curiosity and they do not like to be in one place
- Taking small breaks in between helps them to channel their energy and even gives time for the parents to relax a bit
11. Dress the Toddler in Comfortable Clothing
- Dress the toddler in comfortable clothes when traveling, preferably cotton in summer and woolens in winter
- Choose comfort over style when dressing your toddler
- Avoid dresses with frills, laces, etc.—anything that might get caught and make the toddler fall or be prone to get injured
- Take clothes that one can easily change, as toddlers are prone to make them dirty while eating or playing
- It is best to change the diapers at clean places to avoid any infection
12. Ensure They Sleep And Rest Well
- If the toddler gets proper sleep, they are happy and do not get cranky
- Try to follow the set routine that was there before the trip
- It makes it easier for toddlers to adjust to their new surroundings, creating fewer issues
- Change of place and water can pose challenges, however, if the routine is set right, challenges are few and can easily be sorted
- Once they get tired after running, playing or traveling, it is best to feed them well and let them rest well
With the changing times, things are becoming accessible and convenient for parents. To travel safe with a toddler is hassleless, the key is to plan and pack well. Keep calm, have patience, and be prepared for any eventuality when you travel with a toddler. Go with the flow and create unforgettable memories with your toddler.
FAQ’s
1. What is The Easiest Age to Travel With a Toddler?
Once your toddler starts walking and can eat, etc. on their own, it gets relatively easier to travel with them. You do not have to carry them around, and they can also eat by themselves, giving you space to enjoy your meal in peace.
2. Can I Bring Milk on a Plane For my Toddler?
There are no restrictions on carrying milk for the toddler on a flight. The milk carried, however, must be in a transparent or see-through bottle. This has to be screened as well.
3. Is Traveling With a Toddler Worth it?
Traveling with a toddler is challenging, but it is a time to create some wonderful memories. The key is to do proper planning and make the journey a smooth and memorable one.
4. How Can I Make Traveling in a Car Fun With a Toddler?
You can make traveling by car fun and interesting for your toddler by having a variety of activities. The attention span of a toddler is limited, and playing games and singing songs helps to make the journey an interesting one. Regular breaks in between can also help. Your toddler can do coloring, or enjoy the scenery outside as well. You can in fact, even point out objects on the road like dogs, trees, etc., and teach them new words!
5. What is The Hardest Age to Travel With a Child?
Nine to eighteen months is the hardest age to travel with a child as they become curious. They can no longer be snuggled or be entertained with any gadgets or books. The 9-18 months span needs a lot of patience, as the kid needs space to move around and while traveling this becomes a big challenge.
6. Will a 3-Year-Old Remember Vacation?
A 3-year-old kid is too young to remember a vacation. Their memory span is too short and they cannot remember things for long. It is seen that the memory becomes better by the time they turn 5 years old.
References
- Travel vaccination advice – [https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/travel-vaccinations/travel-vaccination-advice/]
- “Airplane ear”—A neglected yet preventable problem – [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6779601/]
