Going On Vacation With a Toddler: A Guide for Parents
Did you know that 85% of parents say they’re likely to travel with their children in the next year? So there’s a good chance that you’re planning a family getaway in the near future.
Traveling with kids is never easy though, especially when you’ve got fussy toddlers. You don’t want to leave them behind, yet it can aggravate the other family members if your little ones are allowed to run rampant and throw tantrums.
The good news? There are some things you can do to make the trip smoother. Here are some tips for going on vacation with a toddler.
Bring Familiar Things From Home
Leaving the house and going somewhere new can be scary, especially if it’s your toddler’s first time staying elsewhere than your home. Try to make them feel as comfortable as possible by bringing familiar things, such as toys, books, and blankets.
Not only will these items keep your little one calmer, but they’ll also entertain them on long car or plane rides.
Bring the Essentials
Don’t assume that the destination will have kid supplies ready for purchase. On your packing list, you should have the essentials, like diapers, wipes, and extra clothing.
You’ll also want to pack snacks, games, and activities for additional comfort during the journey.
Book Child-Friendly Accommodations
Many people don’t know this, but there are adult-only hotels. You don’t want to accidentally book one and irritate all the other guests, so be sure to check if the accommodations you’re looking at are child-friendly.
Take it a step further and see if they have kid amenities, such as the HGVC resorts found here. For example, staying somewhere with a play area or pool can be a big help; some hotels even have in-room games.
Booking a suite can be a huge relief too. That way, the toddlers can go to bed while the older kids and adults stay up longer without interruption.
Plan for Family-Friendly Activities
This sounds like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at just how many parents plan activities where toddlers are left out.
For instance, even if you go to Disneyland, your little ones won’t be able to ride the rollercoasters with everyone else. To make up for this, make sure you take them to the character meet and greets, and also the fun shows.
A Good Vacation With a Toddler Is Possible
A fun vacation with a toddler may sound like an oxymoron. However, if you follow our tips, your family vacation will be one to remember, and for all the right reasons too.
So if you’ve been putting it off because you’re dreading the difficulties of traveling with young children, it’s time to take action. Once you set off and see how manageable things are, you’ll be thinking of the next family vacation already!
If you’d like more help with vacation planning, then check out the rest of our blog page.
