Summer vacations are a must for every family, but traveling with young children can be challenging. Check out these tips for traveling with kids, straight from a pediatric specialist.
1 Golden Tips from a Pediatric Specialist
Establish a Fixed Schedule for Your Child
Children’s daily routines often differ from those of adults. Establishing a consistent schedule for your child will make family vacations much easier.
Establish a consistent routine for your child to facilitate family travel.
Ms. Linh, a pediatric specialist in Hanoi, shares her insights: “In my opinion, it’s best to travel with your child when you’re already comfortable with their care routine and understand their needs and wants. Ideally, wait until they have a stable daily routine, so any disruptions during travel won’t affect them too much. Before the trip, prepare your child mentally by telling them about your destination. If they haven’t been out much, gradually expose them to crowded places like supermarkets or malls.”
According to the specialist, following a structured routine like the EASY (Eat, Activity, Sleep, You time) schedule can make it easier for parents to meet their children’s needs while traveling. Additionally, for children over six months who are starting solid foods, she recommends the BLW (Baby-Led Weaning) approach, which empowers children to feed themselves and gives parents a break from constantly supervising mealtimes.
Introduce Your Child to Crowded Places
Children, especially very young ones, can be sensitive to crowded places. If you plan to travel with your child, gradually introduce them to busy environments with lots of social interaction, such as malls, parks, or zoos, so they become familiar and comfortable with such settings.
Encourage your child to play in crowded places to prepare them for travel.
However, it’s important to not force your child to socialize if they’re not ready. Every child is unique and warms up to new environments at their own pace.
Choose Travel Destinations and Modes of Transportation Wisely
When planning a family vacation with young children, carefully consider the travel destination and mode of transportation to minimize disruptions to your child’s daily routine and sleep schedule.
Choose travel destinations and transportation methods that suit your child’s needs.
For example, if you’re planning a long-distance trip that requires prolonged sitting, opt for faster modes of transportation like airplanes or trains so your child can rest comfortably. Alternatively, you can choose nearby destinations within an eight-hour drive to maintain your child’s regular routine.
Consider nearby travel destinations to maintain your child’s routine.
A mom of two shares her insights on choosing accommodations: “I prefer to book rooms in central locations with easy access to transportation and dining options. When we visited Phu Quoc, we stayed at Vinpearl because it offered the relaxation I needed, and my child could enjoy the safari and the beach. In Da Lat, we opted for a hotel in the city center for convenience, instead of a homestay in the outskirts, which wouldn’t have been practical with young children.”
“For our trip to Quy Nhon, we chose FLC, which is near the fishing village for seafood dining options, and it’s also close to the safari and other attractions. If you’re heading to Phu Yen, I recommend staying in the city center for easy access to dining and sightseeing.”
2 Essential Items to Pack When Traveling with Children
Bring Your Child’s Identification Documents
When traveling with your child, especially by air or train, don’t forget to bring their original or certified copy of their birth certificate. This is important for identification purposes and can be helpful in unforeseen situations.
Don’t forget to bring your child’s identification documents when traveling.
Bring a Stroller or High Chair for Your Child
A stroller is a must-have when traveling with young children. For children under two, airlines won’t count the stroller as checked baggage, so be sure to inform the airline staff and get it tagged accordingly. Opt for a stroller with a reclining seat or bassinet for your child’s comfort. A baby carrier is also essential for times when a stroller may be impractical or too bulky.
A stroller is a crucial item when traveling with young children.
If your child is capable of self-feeding, consider bringing a portable high chair, as most restaurants outside of resorts won’t have them. This will make mealtimes much easier for both you and your child.
Other Essential Items
Pack at least three changes of clothes for your child, including two outfits for daytime activities and one set for bedtime. Bring at least ten burp cloths or towels, as babies tend to drool and spit up frequently. Don’t forget pacifiers, saline solution, wet wipes, and other essentials.
Pack essential items like burp cloths and wet wipes when traveling with a baby.
Depending on your destination, don’t forget to bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect your child from mosquitoes and the sun’s harmful rays. Also, carry a small tube of soothing gel or cream to alleviate any skin irritation or rashes your child may experience.
Portable potties are a lifesaver when your child needs to go, and there’s no restroom in sight. Additionally, a handheld electric fan can provide much-needed relief from the sweltering heat.
Don’t forget to pack diapers for your little one.
Lastly, be prepared for any minor illnesses by bringing a digital thermometer and fever medication. Pack some of your child’s favorite snacks and baby food in case the local cuisine isn’t suitable for them.
There you have it! Valuable tips for traveling with young children, straight from a pediatric specialist. We hope you find this information useful for your next family vacation.
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