What can I do to make traveling with my children easier?

by Dawn M. Hezel, PNP

Q: What can I do to make traveling with my children easier?

A:  It is that time of the year when Spring Break approaches and many families will begin to travel to warmer climates, spend time with family or just get away. In order to have a safe and happy vacation, here are some tips to follow when traveling with children.

Determine the length and type of trip and how you will get there far in advance. The more planning in advance  that can be done, the better. If you are flying with young children, check with the airline you will be using to determine what fluids, snacks and car seats/booster seats can be brought on the plane. If flying internationally, be sure to have all the necessary documents and immunizations that your child will need. Also, be sure to pack things that you may not be able to get in another country such as Children’s Tylenol, Motrin or Benadryl.  These items can be packed in your suitcase that will be checked. Bring non-perishable snacks that your child likes as they may not be available overseas. Pack activity books, crayons or video games, if appropriate, to help entertain your children during a long flight. Pack handy wipes to help keep germs away, and use them often.

If you are traveling within the US by car or bus, these tips can be incorporated easily.  If using your own car, be sure the items that you will need often will be packed in an easy to reach spot. Pack a cooler with water, fruit and healthy snacks to help decrease the need to go to a “drive through.”  Plan frequent rest stops for children to get out of the car and stretch. Be sure to always be aware of your surroundings and have safety as a top priority. Remember, it is NEVER ok to medicate your child to ensure that they sleep during the traveling time. Talk to your medical provider if your child does have motion sickness to get the best plan in place for them.

Encourage your child to assist you in packing their own back pack to help feel as though they are “helping” with the vacation planning. Let them carry a backpack, if appropriate, to lighten the parental burden of having to carry all the luggage. Remember, your child will be off of their normal schedule, so try to keep naps and feeding schedules as close to normal as possible to ensure a happy vacation.

Happy Traveling!!