Dr. Amanda Lovette
Traveling with a young child can feel like an Olympic event, but with a little preparation and the right mindset, it can also be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help make your journey smoother, whether you are heading out on a road trip or catching a flight.
Pack Smart (and light!). Packing for a young child feels like you’re moving the entire nursery, but less is more. Focus on the essentials:
- Diaper bag must-haves like diapers, wipes, a change of clothes (or two), snacks, and small toys or books to keep your little one entertained.
- If you’re flying, consider a lightweight stroller or baby carrier. For road trips, pack a car seat that’s both safe and comfortable.
- Bring familiar, easy-to-eat snacks and a spill-proof sippy cup or bottle. Bonus: snacks are also a great distraction when things get bumpy.
When planning your trip, consider your child’s schedule. Traveling during nap time or bedtime can work wonders for keeping them calm. If you’re flying, early morning flights tend to be less crowded and less prone to delays. For road trips, leaving early or driving during nap time can mean a quieter ride.
A bored child is an unhappy traveler, so pack a variety of entertainment options. For younger kids, soft books, teething toys, or small stuffed animals can do the trick. Older toddlers might enjoy coloring books, stickers, or a tablet with pre-downloaded shows or games (don’t forget headphones!). Rotate toys to keep things fresh.
Expect the unexpected when traveling with kids. Flights get delayed, traffic happens, and diaper blowouts occur at the worst times. Pack a few extra diapers, an extra set of clothes for both you and your child, and plenty of patience. A sense of humor goes a long way, too.
Airports can add a special stress factor. Know the airline’s policies on strollers, car seats, and liquid allowances for formula or breast milk. You can call the airline directly or look on their website for information about carrying on liquids like formula or pumped breast milk. Consider boarding early – Many airlines allow families with young children to board first. Take advantage of this to get settled. And very importantly, to help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing, offer a pacifier, bottle, or snack. Swallowing helps equalize the pressure.
Here are some road trip tips as well:
- Plan for breaks every couple of hours to stretch legs, change diapers, and let your child burn off some energy.
- Sing songs, play “I Spy,” or use audiobooks to pass the time.
- Ensure your child’s car seat is installed correctly and keep essentials within arm’s reach.
Most importantly, go easy on yourself.
Traveling with kids is not always a breeze, but it is worth it for the memories you’ll make. Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. Take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and remember — you are creating stories you’ll laugh about later.
With a little preparation and a lot of flexibility, you can turn traveling with your child into an adventure you will all enjoy.
For more tips and advice, join the Healthy Kids Western Slope Facebook group facebook.com/groups/healthykidswesternslope/. Delta Health Pediatrics has also expanded their hours and are now open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Call 970-546-4000 to make an appointment or visit https://deltahealthco.org/delta-health-pediatrics/.