Traveling with children, especially the younger ones, can be quite challenging. On the other hand, children add a whole new dimension to trips – with them, it is never boring or stereotypical.
Children get tired quickly, need a lot of things, and parents often prefer choosing a visit to a shopping center where they can safely leave their child in a play area rather than an adventure in the woods. Likewise, longer trips with children are a nightmare for many parents. It is true that with children, it can sometimes be more of an ordeal than a walk in the park. However, the children's enthusiasm, the beneficial change of environment, and plenty of experiences to talk about are definitely worth it.
A universal list for traveling with children?
While some of us adults can get by on trips with just spare socks and a phone charger, children, especially the younger ones, need a lot of things. And not just for clothing and regular "maintenance," but also a pile of toys and equipment for activities to keep them entertained. Every parent who has ever fought fierce battles with their offspring over the number of toy cars and stuffed animals stuffed into suitcases for a vacation knows exactly what we are talking about.
Creating a universal list for trips with children is, however, practically impossible. It needs to be continuously adjusted according to the length and purpose of the trip, as well as the child's age. As time goes by, in direct proportion to the disappearing diapers, the number of toys the child will take will grow exponentially.
We will leave the meaningless list of clothes aside this time and rather move on to the more practical part. Although you are packing for two, the rule of everything in moderation still applies; nothing should be overdone. After all, the most important thing is to pack a good mood. With it, you won't even be upset if you accidentally forget something at home. Just plan a little (and know how to compromise on those plans) and you and your offspring will definitely enjoy the vacation.
Carry it on your shoulders or where to put it?
If you are going on vacation by car or plane and need to pack luggage for each person separately due to weight limits, it is ideal to use so-called travel or carry-on backpacks that can be opened with a zipper around the entire perimeter, just like a suitcase. Proven brands are Osprey and CabinZero, which offer high-quality backpacks that can withstand rough handling at the airport and are also very comfortable to carry on your back. For an adult, a volume of about 46 liters is sufficient, older school-age children can manage with 40 liters, and younger children will fill around 30 liters (though you will likely be carrying this backpack too).
When packing (and not just for trips with children), it is practical to use so-called packing cubes – organizers that also find their use in travel suitcases. They are sold in various colors, so each family member can have their own color to keep a perfect overview of things. Items will be neatly arranged in the organizer, they won't take up extra space, and most importantly, this gadget will prevent you from taking unnecessary items. If you want to save even more space, you can roll your clothes into a tube instead of folding them when putting them in the box.
The stumbling block – toys
In the eyes of little travelers, toys are an absolutely indispensable item on the packing list. When traveling by car, children can be a bit more relaxed, but for a plane, toys must be packed with great consideration. You probably won't get rid of their favorite stuffed animal, but besides that, it is good to pack crayons, an inflatable ball, a book, or perhaps an e-reader or tablet, which you can use as a reader and at the same time keep the little ones entertained during the flight or while waiting at the airport.
If your child has reached the age where having their own backpack is a valued privilege, get them a cute children's backpack where they can keep their toys themselves.
What to always have on hand?
You have your large luggage with all your belongings in the hold or the car trunk. But what is definitely worth having on hand? Some drink, ideally a high-quality bottle with water or unsweetened tea. Of course, also prepare a small snack, after which you will definitely appreciate wet wipes.
It is certainly not a bad idea to have one spare t-shirt in reserve in case of an unexpected accident. If you are flying to warm regions, don't forget a head covering and sunglasses. Even when exiting the plane, before you get to your luggage, the sun can shine quite brightly at the airport. It certainly won't improve the mood of a tired child on the way if the sun starts beating down on them immediately.
TIP: When traveling by plane, your own liquids and snacks can be somewhat problematic. (What you can take on board a plane is revealed in our advice section.) However, airport staff tend to be more lenient with children.
First aid for children's boo-boos
We are almost done with packing. However, don't forget a small travel first aid kit. Its content will again partly depend on the length of the trip and the destination. As they say, he who is prepared is not surprised, and therefore you should always have at least basic medicines and supplies on hand. Nowadays, there are even special children's first aid kits for travel on the market. You can then equip them according to your needs or pack your own emergency box right away.
In addition to regularly used medications, it should definitely include fever reducers, cough drops, and pain and allergy relievers. You will also appreciate eye drops, as children's eyes can be easily irritated by water and sun. Of course, there should be disinfectant for minor abrasions, plasters (ideally with pictures, because when there are dinosaurs or princesses on them, injuries heal better), a bandage, and some gauze. By the sea and in the mountains, you will appreciate Panthenol for skin irritated by the sun and anti-diarrheal medication. Insect repellent and, of course, sunscreen with a high factor won't hurt either.
TIP at the end: Looking for inspiration on how to travel with children without worries and unnecessary complications? We recommend the travel blog Cestujsdetmi.sk.
And what must not be missing in your suitcase when traveling with children? Or do you prefer to travel light with a backpack? Share your experiences and tips with us in the comments!
