5 Travel Must-Haves for Toddlers
Traveling with toddlers can be daunting even for the most well-traveled parents. Unlike babies, toddlers sleep less and are ready to talk, walk, crawl and push. They are curious and ready for adventure whenever they are awake.
Just because you are a parent of toddlers doesn’t mean it’s time to stop taking vacations. What do you do when traveling with toddlers in tow? Here are Travelmath’s 5 travel must-haves to pack when traveling with toddlers.
1. Snacks
It sounds simple, but packing the right types of snacks is essential when traveling with toddlers.
Consider these things when packing snacks:
- How long will you be out and about, sightseeing or visiting a museum. Or how long is your flight or road trip?
- Give toddlers options - bring their favorite snacks, sweets, healthy treats and even some unusual treats they’ve never tried.
Will you have time to stop for lunch or dinner while traveling?
- Suggested snacks: apples, lollipops, mini quesadillas, sandwiches, cereal, dried fruits, low-sugar granola bars, fruit juice, mini muffins, cheese sticks, crackers and hard boiled eggs.
2. Ziploc Bags
Ziploc bags come in various sizes and are handy when traveling. They are great for storing snacks, soiled clothes, dirty diapers, toys, wipes, leftovers, bread to feed the birds and more.
3. First aid kit including hand sanitizer and wipes
Assemble your own first aid kit or buy one ready-packed before traveling. Your first aid kit should include the following: a thermometer, antiseptic wipes, pain and fever reducing medication, calamine solution, antihistamine cream, and medication (for allergic reactions), kid-friendly bandages and antibacterial cream.
If you prefer natural products, you may want to add peppermint essential oil and lavender essential oil to your kit.
Aside from the first aid kit, sunscreen lotion, hand sanitizer and wipes are three of the must-haves wherever you go with toddlers.
4. Toys
In this electronic age, bringing an iPad or any type of tablet is great for keeping your toddler occupied. Load the tablet with new games before leaving for your vacation.
Remember to bring your toddler’s favorite toys and books. Bring toys that easily pack away and can be stored in carry-on bags. According to an experiment by
Professor Robert Winston on a 2-hour British Airways flight, the most popular toy for kids between ages two to five was PlayDoh. Stickers and coloring books are among the popular items as well.
For many years, the Trunki has been included by many parents as a must-have for toddlers. Trunki is a ride-on suitcase which parents can use to store their toddler’s toys, clothes or diapers. Toddlers can ride on the Trunki or pull it. It fits comfortably under an economy class seat and in a car.
Also, bring along new toys to offer as rewards for good behavior. According to
PBS, kids can begin to understand the concept of rewarding around age three. From experience, kids as young as two will start to know a little about rewards.
5. Collapsible stroller
A collapsible stroller is a must have. It makes it easy to bring your toddler and things from place to place. It also makes walking from one airport terminal to another easier. Toddlers can nap while you are having fun at the museum, on a walking tour or out shopping.
Strollers are easily stowed away right at the gate by airline personnel. You will get your stroller back immediately upon arrival at your destination. Collapsible strollers are also easy to store inside the trunks of vehicles of any size. The same stroller you use at home will give toddlers comfort and a sense of familiarity.
For more information on traveling with toddlers and babies, read:
7 Tips to Flying with Babies
7 Insider Tips to Airline Travel with Kids
7 Tips for Cruising with Kids Under Two
