I'm far from being an expert but I do feel that I have some things down with traveling with kids - especially two now. My DS (Dear Son) is 3.5years old and my DD (Dear Daughter) is 1 year old.
- Invest in an umbrella stroller - something lightweight and can be folded up easily. This stroller has seen us through a LOT of travel in the past 3 years. Preferable, get something with cup holders and an undercarriage basket - not the super cheap umbrella strollers but not too expensive. Expect it to get banged up a little bit but it's the perfect thing for navigating crowds at the airport and can also use it to toss your carry-on purse/diaper bag in the basket or to shove all your winter coats. This umbrella stroller retails for about $50 but thanks to my couponing and savings tips, I got it for only $11 back in 2009 at BabiesRUs.
- Layer up - wear a short sleeve and then, a long sleeve zipup or hoodie over. Bring extra clothing - for DD, I always bring at least 2 tops and an entire change of outfit just in case something happens (spilled milk, food or explosive poop/pee).
- Bring food - bring plenty of snacks for the kids - I'm a huge fan of the squeezable applesauce. Bring small containers of other snacks (dried fruit, raisins, Cheerios) - variety is a good thing especially for these kids.
- Bring some form of entertainment - I let them bring their Loveys on board (BUT DO NOT FORGET THEM ON THE PLANE which I have left one of DD 's stuffed animals and lost my diaper travel thing on the plane before) and some books and some quieter toys such as stacking cups or K'nex set.
Traveling with kids random notes while typing on a phone with DD sleeping on my chest especially with Tips for the airport:
- Wear comfortable shoes to run and chase kids in
- If just one kid with you (especially a small one under 2), I recommend baby wearing so you are hands free and can easily go thru security- I'm not just promoting the Pognae but seriously, it's my travel life saver.
- If two kids, I highly recommend a good umbrella stroller you can close with one hand that has a basket and cup holder. Can put diaper bag inside of basket as well as jacket - see above. I babywear the smaller one and stroller the bigger one.
- Layer clothing. Tshirts, zip up and jacket. Bring extra outfit for kids. Wipes and diapers. Bring snacks at least 2-3 different ones. My favorites include Cheerios, puffs, raisins, dried fruit or fruit snacks
- Bring some toys. Our old iPod nanos are perfect to be loaded up with Sesame Street podcasts which is free and even better - they don't play noise without the headphones.
- Legos like four pieces or four stacking cups
- Crayons and a pad of paper or coloring book
- Couple books
- Extra plastic bags
- Headphones for both you and kids in case you decide to watch tv or movie when said children are napping or see above comment about the ipod nano.
- For my son his trains or cars
- Don't invest in a movie on the plane - you won't be able to relax
- Aisle seat is best especially traveling alone with kids because you can get up to go to the restroom for diaper changes, wash hands, and even when your kids are having meltdowns instead of having to climb all over
Any other suggestions for traveling with children?
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