Tips for Travel on Planes, Trains, and Automobiles with Kids
Our family of six just returned from a two week trip overseas and the amount of energy, time, and preparation for packing threatens to overwhelm before you’ve even stepped foot in an airport. As an Enneagram Six, my mind is consumed with logistical nightmares and ‘what if’s’ along the way. Anyone else?
So, I thought I’d put together a quick list of my favorite travel tips, tricks, and gear for your family travels. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but can get you started as you plan and adventure out with your crew in tow.
planes
Always have an extra change of clothes in a carry-on bag for you and the kids. Just in case.
Carry mints or lollipops to help with ears and distract for a pivotal moment.
Consider bringing a fun snack to share with your seat neighbors, if traveling with younger kids, to ease the tension and create a communal bond for survival.
If you or your children are at risk of suffering from motion sickness, try THESE . Ask me how I know.
Save one new toy or game to introduce on your trip each way.
Don’t be afraid of relying on screens, but also think of activity books. I used THIS ONE for all of my kids at the toddler stage, and they loved it. For older kids and adults, always bring a deck of cards for endless game opportunities.
Bring at least one bottle of water onboard with you so that you or the kids can have a drink in case it takes a while for the cart to pass by in the air. Avoid a ton of sugary snacks and drinks like juice. Jittery kids make for difficult passengers.
Buy children’s Tylenol at the gate so that you have it just in case.
Consider more kid-friendly wired headphones like THESE that go over the ear for your younger kids.
Bring an inflatable neck pillow or one that folds up in a bag like one of THESE.
trains
If your child suffers from motion sickness, have them facing the direction the train is moving and sit by the window, if possible. Trust me on this.
Sit in a train car with a restroom for your convenience.
Try and have your tickets purchased online and give yourself plenty of lead time. There is nothing more stressful than rushing with children to jump on a train.
I’m a big fan of having books to help the kids learn more about what they are experiencing in real time. HERE are some train books to check out.
If you have a larger family, we have found it helpful that only one person keeps the tickets to make it easier.
automobiles
As a big road trip family, I love having a map printed off for each child that they can use to cross off states, or highlight roads as we cross them. It helps them feel progress along the way.
Use an atlas if traveling in the US to read about each state as you pass through. It’s fun to learn about key land features, historical milestones, and even the state bird as you drive.
Travel Bingo is the best! Try some of THESE activities and have prizes for the winners like they choose where you get to stop for lunch.
We play the alphabet game backwards and forwards for a fun challenge with older kids.
Stop and take a pic at each of the state lines you cross, or create a picture scavenger hunt before you go that your older kids have to take a pic of. Not only does it give them a mission, it creates a fun memory book that’s out of the ordinary. Start HERE for ideas or have the kids help you create a list for the family.
THESE read along books or activities like THIS are great b/c they are mess free and keep them busy.
gear
THESE space saver bags are a life saver for the one who likes to have options. Ahem.
THIS backpack was a lifesaver for me as I walked with the kids all around London. No matter where your travels take you, sometimes you just need a lightweight backpack for extra adventures, water bottles, or purchases.
My sister-in-law swears by THESE eye masks, and I must say they helped me tremendously on our overseas flight.
Traveling with WIPES is a must! You never know when you’ll need one.
These TWIST TIES helped me keep my cords organized on our travels and the colors made me happy.
It’s always a good idea to keep a rain poncho handy when you know you’ll be out and about. HERE’S a family a pack that just might get you through any kind of weather.
Create your own FIRST AID kit or buy a travel kit. You will more than likely need band aids and pain reliever at some point! I also love having some Lavender essential oil on hand to help with nerves, sleep, and even bloody noses!
If you have a favorite tip, trick, or gear—share it below and help another mother out!