While the idea of traveling with children might be overwhelming, the most important thing to remember is that it will be just fine. You will get there and you will make memories. You might be used to rushing off the airplane and through the airport, making use of all those secret shortcuts, but those days are over. Sit back, let everyone rush around you. Staying cool, calm and collected is the number one strategy for a stress free family travel. It is the most important mantra to remember, as events can happen unexpectedly, especially when little ones are involved.

Our first vacation with the daughter was when she was 4 months old. Before her first birthday, she was on eight flights including one international and two road trips which were more than 11 hours drive. We were brave new parents to plan all these trips before she was born. We also took her on a two week trip to Italy when she was 18 months old. We jokingly tell her that she needs to sponsor an Italy trip for her parents when she gets her first job. Yes, she acted how a 1.5year old should act but we wouldn’t trade our time together for anything. Now that she is 8 years old, she has traveled to Europe and Asia multiple times inherently inheriting her parent’s travel bug and often dreaming about the next trip.

Traveling with a child definitely requires some adjustments. Follow these expert tips from my personal experience and the experience of other seasoned traveler moms to keep your kids content next time you travel with them –

1. Talk about what to expect. Get your child excited about your upcoming travel. Having a smooth trip starts long before arriving at the airport. When you first start planning, get your kids involved in the process. Show them the places or people they will see or the activities they will do.

2. Book wisely. Plan your flight or drive time around nap time or bedtime so the kid(s) can fall asleep soon after. There’s no better way than traveling with a sleeping child.

3. Plan for meals. If you have a really long flight pre-order special meals(i.e. halal), since airlines usually only bring as many meals as ordered. Pick a few of your child’s favorite snacks to munch while traveling. If they are picky, bring along any food they may eat for the long journey.

4. Bring surprises. Whether it’s a road trip or a cross country flight, pack activities for your child(ren) to entertain and keep them busy while traveling. Books, toys, free coloring pages and activities are great choices. To reward their good behavior, grab a small new toy, a new book, portable activities or some candies and lollipops to surprise them when they get fussy.

5. Get them excited. Get your slightly older kids interested in traveling by giving them a travel journal. Not only does this help them intellectually, it also serves as a great reminder of the places they saw, observations they made and food they ate.

6. Pack light. You’ll be surprised how less you can get by with.

7. Give them responsibilities. Have each child bring their own backpack filled with their toys, treats and necessities. Giving them individual backpacks boosts their confidence as well.

8. Pack an extra pair or two clothes in your carry-on luggage in case of spills, throw-ups and other emergencies on the plane or luggage delays. You just never know.

9. Teach strategies. Show your child how to swallow, or give them frequent sips from a straw to reduce pressure while flying. Sucking on lollipops also soothes the discomfort of sudden air pressure change during take off and landing.

10. Keep your hands free. If you have a baby, take the strain off your back and free up your hands with a comfortable carrier.

11. Take medication with you in case you need them. Allergy medications are a must. Here’s some more medications pro-moms suggest you take while traveling –

• • Benadryl
  • Tylenol
  • Peptobismal
  • Ibuprofen
  • Advil

12. Stay comfortable. The temperature on planes can be chilly, so making sure everyone stays warm is key for a comfortable flight. Put on layers or use blankets to keep everyone comfortable.

13. Live in the moment and enjoy! Loosen up and enjoy your trip and time with your family! Live in the moment, embrace new experiences, try new things and get out of your comfort zone. That’s what traveling is all about!

14. Leave plenty of time. While you want to minimize time waiting in line, you certainly don’t want to have to rush.

Remember, when kids are bored, tired and fed up, a cuddle will be the only thing that comforts them. Kickback, relax and enjoy your family travel.

What super-parent tricks have you found that work wonders on travel days?

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