How to Travel with Kids: Best Tips to Follow
Traveling with children can be chaotic, but with a bit of prep and the right mindset, it doesn’t have to be. This guide covers everything you need to know—from packing light and using airport hacks to keeping kids entertained and managing sleep on the go. Key tips include reserving a bassinet seat, double-nappying before boarding, packing snacks and meds, sticking to your child’s routine at your destination, and always having spare clothes (for everyone). With smart planning and a little flexibility, family travel can be smoother, more enjoyable, and a whole lot less stressful.
Key Takeaways
- Traveling with kids works best with smart preparation.
- Pack light, bring snacks, and keep kids on their usual routines.
- Use carriers/strollers and double-nappy babies before boarding.
- Bring entertainment, spare clothes, and essential meds.
- Stick to familiar routines and practice good hygiene at the destination.
Introduction
Anyone familiar with traveling knows that every step—from walking out the front door to checking in, navigating customs, boarding, landing, collecting luggage, and finally arriving at the destination—can be both stressful and exhausting.
Add a few children into the mix, and it’s easy to understand why some parents might question their decision to take a holiday at all.
Kids have a knack for turning even the smoothest travel plans into chaos: asking endless questions, misplacing toys and shoes, wandering off, suddenly declaring they’re starving or too tired to walk. It’s a lot to handle.
However, learning how to travel with kids successfully comes down to smart preparation. With a little planning, most of these challenges can be avoided, helping the entire family enjoy the journey more.
Before the global shutdown, this family took a memorable trip to Fiji. Drawing on that experience—plus insights from a trusted flight attendant—these helpful tips are designed to make any family holiday more relaxed and rewarding.
To make travel planning even easier, be sure to check out the travel planner available on the website. It’s a great resource for organizing a stress-free trip the whole family will enjoy.
Tips for the Airport and Onboard
1. Pack Light
When it comes to figuring out how to travel with kids efficiently, packing light is key. For short trips, one suitcase can be shared between parents, while children can share a second bag. Each family member should ideally have just one carry-on.
Travel days involve enough to think about—feeding schedules, nap times, travel medications, passports, and immigration paperwork—without being bogged down by excess luggage.
Fewer bags mean fewer things to keep track of, reducing the risk of leaving something behind at the airport.
2.Choose Bright, Distinctive Bags
Bright or patterned luggage can be a game-changer for busy parents. One family uses a vivid pink suitcase and a plaid grey-and-white bag, making them instantly recognizable on the baggage carousel.
Spotting bags quickly makes it much easier to move through the airport swiftly and reduce time spent searching.
3. Weigh Each Bag Separately
Most airlines now use self-service check-in kiosks, and these won’t allow the baggage weight to be averaged across multiple bags.
Instead, each piece must meet the individual weight limit. Handling this at home is far easier than redistributing items at the terminal with kids trying to "help." Avoid the hassle and potential fees by weighing in advance.
4. Secure Young Children in Carriers or Travel Prams
Airports are crowded and often require long waits through customs, security, and boarding queues.
Parents traveling with children under four should consider a compact travel stroller, while those with younger infants will benefit from a front or back carrier.
If possible, use a stroller approved for carry-on—it simplifies the gate-to-gate transition. Flight attendants often advise against relying solely on umbrella strollers at gates, as they’re not always available when needed.
5. Respect Regular Sleep Times
One of the most valuable family travel tips is to allow children to rest at their usual nap times, whether in a pram, carrier, or airplane bassinet.
Even if sleep is shorter than usual, maintaining the pattern helps minimize fatigue.
For example, one child who hadn’t napped in a stroller for over a year still fell asleep at the expected time when prompted in the airport—proof that routine can offer comfort and predictability even in new environments.
6. Do Whatever It Takes to Help Babies Sleep
On travel day, flexibility is essential. If naps don’t happen at the usual time, parents should focus on simply getting their baby to sleep by any means necessary—rocking, feeding, bouncing, or holding.
With infants under one, overtiredness can spiral quickly, especially in the stimulating environment of airports and airplanes. Sleep comes first; good habits can be revisited once home.
7. Use Feeding for Takeoff and Landing
Feeding during takeoff and landing can help with ear pressure changes. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, the act of swallowing can reduce discomfort.
And if the baby cries, that too can help equalize the ears. Parents should be aware that airplanes don’t have microwaves, so bottles may need to be warmed in a jug of hot water.
Bringing pre-prepared hot water from home can help avoid delays.
8. Double Nappy Before Boarding
One lesser-known tip for how to travel with kids comfortably: double nappy babies before boarding.
With cramped changing areas onboard, having a second nappy already in place can simplify changes mid-flight. For toddlers and young children, pull-ups are highly recommended—especially on long-haul flights.
Between turbulence and long lines after meal service, getting to the bathroom may not always be an option right away.
9. Look for the Hook in Plane Toilets
Many parents don’t realize there’s a hook on the back of airplane toilet doors—perfect for keeping nappy bags off the floor. A simple detail that can make a big difference when traveling with children.
10. Have One Adult Board First
When flying with a partner or another adult, one of the best strategies for how to travel with kids more smoothly is to send one person ahead during boarding.
This allows them to organize the cabin area, store bags, and set up toys or comfort items. Meanwhile, the other adult can focus on bringing the children onboard calmly, creating a smoother transition into the flight.
11. Reserve a Bassinet Row
If available, booking a bassinet row is well worth it. Even if the bassinet isn’t used, the extra legroom alone makes a big difference.
Just note that these seats don’t offer under-seat storage, so all bags must be stored overhead.
A blackout cover for the bassinet can also help babies sleep more soundly during the flight.
12. Pack Plenty of Snacks
Snacks are a lifesaver during long flights. Kids often get hungry between meals, and relying solely on in-flight food isn’t always wise—options are limited and frequently sell out.
Packing a generous supply of their favorite snacks helps avoid hunger-related meltdowns.
13. Confirm Special Meal Requests in Advance
If a special dietary meal has been requested for a child, it’s essential to call the airline at least 48 hours before departure to confirm. Waiting until check-in or boarding is too late to fix any errors or omissions.
14. Ask About Onboard Baby Supplies
Most long-haul flights carry essential items like baby food, nappies, wipes, and even olbas oil for congestion.
Flight attendants can provide these on request. Many are also happy to hold a baby for a few minutes, giving parents a short break or the chance to use the restroom.
15. Celebrate Birthdays in the Air
Traveling on a child’s birthday? Flight crews are often delighted to announce birthday wishes over the PA system—and some will even ask the pilot to join in.
It’s a fun way to make a travel day extra special.
16. Request Assistance When Traveling Alone
For parents traveling solo with little ones, ground assistance can be arranged to help with customs, baggage collection, and navigating the airport.
This service can usually be coordinated mid-flight with help from a flight attendant.
17. Pack Spare Clothes for Everyone
Unexpected messes are almost inevitable when flying with children. Vomiting, spills, or accidents can happen, so it’s important to pack at least one full change of clothes for each child—and for the parent, too.
18. Complete Arrival Forms Before Landing
Filling out immigration or customs forms while juggling tired, cranky kids after a long flight can be a challenge.
Completing all paperwork during the flight—ideally while the kids are asleep or occupied—saves time and stress at the airport.
19. Bring a Mix of Entertainment Options
Relying solely on in-flight entertainment can be risky, especially on shorter flights or with limited programming. Always pack a mix of screen-free activities and electronics.
Since most devices must be turned off during takeoff and landing, it’s smart to have books, coloring materials, or toys ready to avoid any last-minute tantrums.
20. Pre-Order Duty-Free Items Online
Skip the queues and distractions of airport shopping by ordering duty-free items online in advance.
Not only does this save time, but it also means not having to juggle bags and purchases while managing young children.
Tips for When You Arrive at Your Destination
21. Maintain a Familiar Routine When Possible
One of the most effective strategies for how to travel with kids without disrupting their well-being is to stick to their usual routine as much as possible.
If the time zone difference is minimal—say one or two hours—adjusting the daily schedule slightly can work well.
A regular 7am–7pm routine at home might shift to 5am–5pm or 9am–9pm locally, depending on the destination.
While it may seem inconvenient at first, it also opens up opportunities to enjoy early morning beach walks or later evening meals together.
When the time difference is more significant, children may take a few days to adjust. Helping them fall back into a familiar routine, based on the local time, will ease the transition.
Consistency is key, even when everything else is new and unfamiliar.
22. Travel with Essential Medications
No one plans for illness during a family holiday, but it’s important to be prepared just in case.
On one memorable trip, a toddler became ill with multiple symptoms—including a fever and a rash—only to be diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Fortunately, the family had packed the child’s usual antibiotics, since the local doctor only carried a limited selection.
When considering how to travel with kids safely, always pack basic medications like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and any prescriptions your children may need.
A well-stocked travel first aid kit can save the day when local resources are limited or unsuitable.
23. Use Disinfectant Wipes for Peace of Mind
Surfaces in restaurants or accommodations might not meet the same hygiene standards parents are used to at home.
Highchairs stored outdoors, for instance, can collect mould or grime.
Especially when travelling with babies or toddlers who explore the world with their hands and mouths, disinfectant wipes are essential for keeping surfaces clean and safe.
24. Stick to Bottled Water When in Doubt
In areas where tap water quality is uncertain, it's best to err on the side of caution.
Choosing bottled water for drinking—and even for brushing teeth if necessary—can help prevent stomach issues and keep the whole family feeling their best throughout the trip.
25 Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
Unexpected medical costs while abroad can add significant stress to any family trip. Travel insurance is a must when planning how to travel with kids internationally.
It ensures that doctor visits, medication, and potential hospital stays are covered. Many policies now also include Covid-related coverage, which is helpful if illness forces a change in travel plans.
Having the right insurance gives parents the peace of mind to seek help when needed—without the fear of excessive costs.
Why Use Our Ultimate Travel Planner for Stress-Free Family Trips
Planning a family holiday can be overwhelming, but our Ultimate Travel Planner makes it simple and organized.
Designed specifically to help parents manage every detail—from packing lists to flight info and kids’ routines—this planner ensures nothing is forgotten.
Using this tool from DigyKeys will help you stay calm, save time, and enjoy your trip more, making it the perfect companion for hassle-free travel with kids.
Get yours here and start your smooth journey today!
Conclusion - How to Travel with Kids
A holiday with children may not be as relaxing as traveling alone or with a partner or friends, but it can still be very enjoyable and full of cherished family memories.
If a child’s routine changes or new sleep habits develop during the trip, parents shouldn’t worry too much. Usually, these changes resolve naturally once back home. If needed, sleep consultants at the Little Ones Village are available to help families get back on track.
These tips aim to support anyone planning a holiday with little ones, making the experience more manageable and rewarding by being well prepared for any situation.
Thanks for reading,
The DigyKeys Team
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the hardest age to travel with a child?
The toddler years, especially between 1 and 3, are often the hardest age to travel with a child due to increased mobility, curiosity, and limited communication skills. Toddlers can get easily restless and may have difficulty understanding travel routines or delays. Parents should prepare extra snacks, toys, and patience to handle this challenging but rewarding stage.
How to make travel with kids easier?
Making travel with kids easier involves thorough planning, packing light, and bringing plenty of entertainment and snacks to keep children engaged. Maintaining familiar routines, such as sleep and meal times, helps minimize stress and fatigue. Utilizing travel-friendly gear like carriers or compact strollers can also smooth the travel experience.
What is the best way to travel with a child on a plane?
The best way to travel with a child on a plane is to book a bassinet seat if available and bring familiar comfort items like toys and blankets. Feeding during takeoff and landing can ease ear pressure, and packing plenty of snacks helps avoid hunger-related fussiness. Parents should also prepare for naps and bring both electronic and non-electronic entertainment options.
What is the best age to travel with kids?
The best age to travel with kids depends on family preferences, but many find that children between 4 and 7 years old travel more easily due to better communication and patience. At this age, kids can enjoy and appreciate new experiences while still needing manageable levels of supervision. Early preparation and clear routines make travel enjoyable for this age group.
What age is hardest to parent?
Many parents find the toddler years, roughly ages 1 to 3, the hardest to parent because children are developing independence but still have limited communication. This stage often includes temper tantrums, rapid developmental changes, and increased need for constant supervision. Support, patience, and consistent routines are essential for managing this challenging age.
What age does traveling with kids become easier?
Traveling with kids generally becomes easier once they reach preschool age, around 3 to 5 years old, as they can better understand instructions and enjoy activities during trips. School-age children tend to have longer attention spans and can adapt to travel routines more smoothly. Encouraging independence and involving them in planning also helps.
At what age is it hard to travel?
Traveling tends to be hardest with children between 1 and 3 years old because of their high energy levels, limited language skills, and difficulty sitting still for long periods. This age group is also prone to separation anxiety and unpredictable moods during travel. Extra preparation and flexible plans are key to handling this stage.
How to calm a child on a plane?
To calm a child on a plane, parents can use familiar comfort objects, play quiet games, or read books to distract and soothe them. Feeding during takeoff and landing helps relieve ear pressure discomfort. Remaining calm and offering reassurance also helps children feel secure in the unfamiliar environment.
How to travel with a toddler without a stroller?
Traveling with a toddler without a stroller requires using a child carrier or backpack carrier to keep hands free and maintain mobility. Frequent breaks for walking and play help manage energy levels. Packing lightweight, portable toys and snacks also keeps toddlers engaged while on the move.
At what age does it become difficult to travel?
Travel often becomes difficult when children are toddlers, typically ages 1 to 3, due to their increased activity and limited ability to sit still or follow travel routines. This period involves more frequent tantrums and unpredictable behavior. Parents benefit from flexible schedules and prepared distractions during travel.
What is the age limit for travel children?
There is no strict age limit for traveling with children, but infants under two often travel for free on many airlines, making them popular for family trips. Airlines may have specific policies for unaccompanied minors or require documentation for younger children. It is best to check airline rules before booking family travel.
What is the best age to travel with a baby?
The best age to travel with a baby is usually between 3 and 6 months, when infants are more settled in their sleep patterns and easier to soothe. Traveling at this age can be less stressful as babies are generally more flexible with schedules. Parents should prepare for feeding, diaper changes, and packing all essentials for comfort.
Is traveling with a 2 year old hard?
Traveling with a 2 year old can be challenging due to their increased mobility, curiosity, and limited ability to communicate needs. At this age, toddlers may resist routines and become easily frustrated during long waits or confined spaces. Planning for plenty of snacks, entertainment, and breaks is essential for smoother travel experiences.
Written by DigyKeys Editorial Team
The DigyKeys Editorial Team is a dedicated group of writers, researchers, and digital experts who provide insightful content and resources to help you navigate the digital world. From personal development tips to creative strategies, we deliver practical advice and tools to enhance your productivity and achieve your goals.
Updated July 2025
