When we became a digital nomad family in 2019 and flew to Thailand with our then 2-year-old, we made so many mistakes. Traveling was stressful, tantrums happened in public, routines were disrupted, and long flights left us at our wit’s end.
Fast forward to today—we now have a 7-year-old and a 3-year-old and have become toddler travel pros. Long-haul flights, road trips, and train journeys—full-time travel with two little kids is just part of our everyday life.
In this article, I’ll share everything about how to travel with a toddler: tips for keeping them happy, how to prepare for toddler travel, and ways to reduce tantrums as much as possible.
Traveling with a Toddler: Why Do We Even Do It?
Yep, I’ve asked myself this question many times—why take on the challenge of figuring out how to travel with a toddler? Especially in those moments when we were that loud family at the airport gate. Or the parents with the screaming baby on the plane. Or the ones with dark circles under our eyes at the hotel breakfast buffet.
I often envied the solo travelers or couples sitting on their window seats with headphones on, while we were stuck in survival mode.
No one likes to stand out in an awkward way. We all just want peace and to make travel as smooth as possible for our kids (and ourselves). But then there are the unpredictable demands of toddlers, right?
Our oldest daughter, Lila, was our little guinea pig when we first started traveling. Our youngest, Ruby, was born in Thailand, and by then, we’d already mastered a lot of our toddler travel hacks.
Getting Into the Right Mindset for Family Travel With Toddlers
I know this isn’t what you want to hear—it’s not a quick hack—but trust me, getting into the right mindset is where it all starts! Here are a few beliefs that have helped me:
- Traveling with kids is normal. Understanding how to travel with a toddler successfully starts with accepting that kids are part of society. They can be loud sometimes, and they’re still learning to manage their emotions. If someone rolls their eyes or complains about your noisy toddler, that’s their problem, not yours. Don’t apologize for your child being a child. And don’t take it to heart! Honestly, we’ve met so many understanding people while traveling.
- Traveling with toddlers is different from traveling alone. Let go of the idea that you’ll have quiet conversations with your partner, nap in the car, or watch a movie in peace on the plane. That’s not likely to happen 99% of the time. If you accept this upfront, you won’t feel disappointed later.
- Manage expectations! Stay flexible, and accept that long travel days with young kids require patience. Plans might need to change if your toddler is tired or overwhelmed. Build in time to adjust. Skipping an activity or taking extra breaks can make the day much smoother for everyone.
- Anything goes while traveling (at least for us). Forget the rules about only 30 minutes of screen time or limiting sweet treats. Sure, we don’t go overboard, but on those tough travel days when everyone’s running on empty, it’s okay to bend the rules and cut yourself some slack.
Planning the Perfect Toddler-Friendly Trip
Choosing a Destination
- There’s nothing worse than a bored toddler (except a tired one), right? That’s why it’s so important to pick a destination with plenty of family-friendly activities—like parks to run around in, play areas, or interactive museums. It’s a great way to keep small children entertained. Beach resorts with toddler-friendly pools can also be a lifesaver.
- When we first started traveling with a toddler, we made the mistake of going to fancy hotels and non-kid-friendly restaurants. Sure, it’s fine once in a while, but it often stressed us out. We spent the whole time trying to keep our daughter quiet so we wouldn’t disturb the other guests.
- If it’s your first trip, pick places that don’t involve long travel times, jet lag, or crossing big time zones. Direct flights and familiar destinations are the best choice for the whole family. Keep it simple. A well-rested, entertained toddler makes the whole trip easier for everyone!
- If you’re new to traveling with a toddler, consider going somewhere you’ve visited before. Familiarity will ease the pressure to explore everything, allowing you to focus on relaxing and keeping your toddler happy.
💡 Extra tip: If you need a break, hire a trusted local babysitter for an evening. Ask for recommendations from your hotel or vacation rental host—it’s worth it for a bit of downtime. We always book a nanny for at least one evening or afternoon to enjoy some time alone.
Timing Your Travel
Timing can make a big difference when learning how to travel with a toddler, especially for longer flights. Book flights or plan long drives during nap times or nighttime hours so your little one can sleep through the journey. For road trips, consider driving at night. Transfer your toddler to the car after bedtime—they’ll sleep through the journey, cutting down on awake (and potentially cranky) time. It makes everything easier for everyone.
I’ll never forget the time I perfectly planned an intercontinental trip from Germany to Australia and then to Thailand, with only night flights. A few days before we left, the airline rebooked everything to daytime flights. I was devastated—and yes, it was exhausting. Situations like this are out of your control, so be prepared for changes and roll with them as best you can.
💡 Extra tip: avoid peak travel times. Less crowded airports or roads mean less stress, faster check-ins, and fewer distractions for you and your toddler.
Finding Toddler-Friendly Accommodations
- When booking a place to stay, go for accommodations that have cribs, high chairs, and kitchenettes—they make things so much easier with a toddler. Rental homes are also a solid option, especially if you want extra space for the whole family and the convenience of a kitchen to pack food or cook meals.
- If your budget allows, invest in a SlumberPod or a similar travel blackout tent. It’s lightweight, blocks out all light, and provides a familiar sleep environment for your toddler, even in the brightest hotel rooms.
- Consider investing in a bassinet that doubles as a travel crib. It’s a versatile, lightweight option that’s especially useful for naps on the go.
Medical Preparations
Understanding how to travel with a toddler includes preparing for medical needs. Before an international trip, schedule a quick visit with your pediatrician to make sure vaccinations are up-to-date. For any medications, pack them in their original bottles and bring a copy of the prescription—this can save you a lot of hassle if you’re asked about them during your travels.
Toddler Travel Essentials
Toddler Clothes and Comfort Items
- When packing for your toddler, stick to versatile outfits and layers so you’re ready for any weather. Don’t forget their comfort items—things like a favorite blanket, stuffed toy, or pacifier can make all the difference when they need a little extra security in a new place.
- Bring at least two days’ worth of diapers or pull-ups in your diaper bag. Diaper prices at airports are exorbitant, and delays can happen.
Snacks and Meals
- Snacks are a lifesaver when traveling with a toddler. Pack plenty of easy options like pouches, crackers, and fruit to keep them happy and distracted. My personal favorite? Lollipops—they keep the kids busy forever!
- Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle and a spill-proof cup to avoid messy accidents. These little things can make a big difference!
Health and Hygiene Supplies for Toddler Travel
- Make sure to pack the essentials: diapers, wipes, disposable changing pads (dog wee-wee pads work great!), and baby-safe hand sanitizer. It’s also smart to bring a small first-aid kit with fever reducers, band-aids, and any prescribed medications—better safe than sorry!
- Keep wet wipes and hand sanitizer close by—they’re lifesavers for cleaning sticky hands and messy surfaces. A travel-sized disinfectant spray is also handy for quickly cleaning strollers, high chairs, and airplane seats before your toddler uses them.
Entertainment for Toddlers on the Go
- Pack a mix of entertainment for your toddler—some favorite toys for comfort and a few new ones for excitement. Sticker books, small toys, or iPad apps can work wonders to keep them busy. Here’s a fun trick: wrap the new toys like little presents to make them feel extra special when it’s time to play.
- My girls are huge fans of sticker books. We start hyping them up days before the trip as something super special. Then, we only bring them out during the really tricky parts of the journey—like long layovers at the airport or waiting in the check-in line. It works like magic!
- Pack a ‘Mary Poppins bag’ filled with treats and toys your toddler usually doesn’t get at home—like slime, fidget toys, or a new book. The novelty will keep them entertained during long stretches.
- Limit Screen Time Before Traveling: While screens can be a lifesaver, save them for when you really need them. Keeping screen time to a minimum before the trip can help keep your toddler calm and entertained during those inevitable long waits or flights.
- Give each child their own backpack with small toys, snacks, and activities. Having their own ‘special’ bag makes the trip more exciting and keeps them occupied.
💡 Extra tip: Puffy stickers are fantastic for keeping little hands busy. They’re easy to peel and stick without needing constant supervision.
Toddler Travel Toys: Tried-and-True Favorites
Keeps toys, snacks, and activities in one place. It’s machine washable and prevents items from falling off. Ideal for long-haul flights or road trips, especially for toddlers who love playing with cars or blocks. Look for a tray with pockets for extra storage.
Engaging and screen-free, these books are perfect for flights, layovers, or car rides. Titles like Bluey Search and Find or Where’s Spot? keep little hands and eyes busy. Start with these before diving into screen time!
A mess-free way to draw and practice shapes or letters. Lightweight and perfect for the car, plane, or even restaurant wait times. Choose one with a clip-on pen to avoid losing it mid-trip.
4. Water Wow!
No-mess painting fun! These reusable water-filled brush books keep toddlers entertained without any cleanup. I wish I had known those earlier.
Lightweight and easy to carry, these reusable stickers are perfect for toddlers sitting in window seats. Create scenes, or just stick and peel.
Combines snack storage with a fun, spinning toy. Keeps snacks fresh and minimizes spills by only allowing access to one section at a time. Choose a spinner with a loop for attaching to bags or strollers.
Designed for toddlers aged 1-3, these books have push-and-pop buttons that are irresistibly fun and help develop fine motor skills. Ideal for toddlers who like hands-on toys but aren’t ready for screens.
Contained and portable, these tins come with magnetic pieces for building, creating scenes, or even practicing letters and numbers.
Combining coloring, stickers, and interactive pages, these books are great for long journeys. Options like Bluey Sticker and Activity Book or Melissa & Doug Sticker Pads are perfect for toddlers. My girls are the biggest fans of dress-up sticker books where they can choose what little ferries or ballerinas should wear.
Perfect for restaurants or planes, these reusable mats offer a creative distraction. Use washable markers or crayons for easy cleanup. You can also laminate free printables for a DIY version of a placemat.
11. Free Printables
Affordable and customizable! Print out coloring pages or activity sheets featuring your toddler’s favorite characters or themes.
Small and lightweight, these fidget toys are perfect for keeping little fingers busy. They’re quiet, mess-free, and entertaining.
Compact and educational, these mini puzzles or flashcards with magnetic pieces are perfect for toddlers who love matching and building.
14. Kid’s Tablet
The ultimate backup when all else fails. Preload it with toddler-friendly apps, games, and shows for screen time during long trips. Use kid-safe headphones for peace of mind (and quiet).
Soft, lightweight, and easy to pack, these blocks let toddlers build and play anywhere without taking up too much space.
Toddler Travel Must-Haves: Product Recommendations
Over the years, I’ve tried many products and met many traveling parents. These are the products that have become the absolute go-to items either for us or the families we met.
1. Stroller: Babyzen YOYO2
Lightweight, compact, and airplane cabin-friendly, this stroller folds down in seconds and is perfect for both city strolls and airport runs. Bonus: It fits in most overhead compartments, so you don’t have to gate-check it! We never had a stroller we were traveling with, but most of our friends with toddlers have.
2. Travel Car Seat: Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 Car Seat
This compact and versatile car seat works rear-facing, forward-facing, and as a booster. It’s FAA-approved with the harness and fits kids from 5 to 100 lbs—perfect for travel and everyday use.
3. Travel Crib: SlumberPod
This blackout tent creates a dark, cozy sleep environment for your toddler, even in the brightest hotel rooms. It’s lightweight and folds up neatly into your luggage.
4. Snack Containers: Munchkin Snack Catcher
These spill-proof snack cups are perfect for little hands. They keep snacks fresh and prevent messes during long car rides or flights.
5. Water Bottle: Contigo Kids Spill-Proof Water Bottle
Durable, easy to clean, and truly spill-proof, this water bottle is a lifesaver for travel days.
6. Travel Backpack: Skip Hop Zoo Backpack
These adorable backpacks are the perfect size for toddlers to carry their own small toys, snacks, and activities. My kids love having their own “special” bag for trips. Ruby has one with a rainbow design and was so proud when she first got it.
8. Portable High Chair: Inglesina Fast Table Chair
This clip-on high chair attaches securely to most tables, making mealtimes easier when restaurants don’t have high chairs available. I’ve honestly never used one of these, but I see so many Asian parents using them in restaurants – especially in mega cities like Bangkok or Singapore.
9. Baby Carrier: Ergobaby Omni 360
This carrier offers excellent support for both you and your toddler, making it perfect for sightseeing, airport navigation, or hikes where a stroller isn’t practical. I’m an even bigger fan of the previous model, but it’s not available anymore.
10. First Aid Kit: Pre-packed Toddler Travel Kit
Compact and stocked with essentials like band-aids, fever reducers, and antiseptic wipes, this kit is a must for any trip.
During the Journey
Surviving Airports and Flights With Toddlers
Mastering how to travel with a toddler means tackling airports and flights, which are, in my opinion, the ultimate challenge. You’re relying heavily on others, waiting in lines, staying calm in tight spaces with strangers, and keeping things as quiet as possible.
This is where the mindset I mentioned earlier really comes into play. Remember, you’re not alone—millions of other families with toddlers have been through this before. You’ve got this, and everything will be okay!
Before the Flight: Tips for the Airport
- Let your toddler move around and explore the airport to burn off some energy—it’s the best way to set them up for a calmer flight. Before we head to the gate, we let our girls run around as much as possible in a safe spot. We even make up running games like, “Run around the chairs five times!” or “Who can take the trash to the bin the fastest?” By the time we board, they’re a bit more tired and less energetic.
You can also pack a few balloons in your carry-on. They take up almost no space and are perfect for burning off energy before boarding. Find a quiet spot, blow one up, and let your toddler play while you wait.
Or you teach your toddler the game ‘Red Light, Green Light’ before your trip. It’s a fun way to get them to stop on command if they start running off in busy places like airports.
- Plan extra time for airport security, especially if you’re carrying liquids like formula or breast milk. Keep them in TSA-approved containers to avoid any delays. I have to admit, security is always my most stressful part.
Ruby has a habit of running off, and there have been a few times when she’s dashed away during the security check, causing a bit of chaos with airport staff. If you know your child might do the same, it’s best to divide and conquer: one person holds the toddler while the other handles all the carry-ons. It makes things so much easier!
- Remember, gate-checking a stroller and car seat is usually free. If you have a travel system where the car seat clicks into the stroller, this setup can also double as a gear carrier while navigating the airport.
- Wear your baby in a carrier for hands-free movement through the airport. It keeps your toddler close and comfortable while you navigate the journey.
In-Flight Survival Strategies
- During the flight, help your toddler manage ear pressure during takeoff, landing, and long flight times with a pacifier, bottle, sippy cup, or even a lollipop (see, my favorite!). Keep essentials like snacks, diapers, wipes, and a few toys in a bag that’s easy to grab from under your seat. A lightweight blanket and a small neck pillow can also make your little one more comfortable if they nap. If possible, take short walks up and down the aisle to break up the sitting time and keep them entertained.
- If your budget allows, booking an extra seat for your toddler can make a huge difference. It gives you more space and keeps everyone more comfortable. Choosing an aisle seat is also a great idea—it makes bathroom trips easier and gives you the freedom to take little walks when your toddler gets restless.
- I know some families swear by having their toddler sit in a car seat on the plane. I wouldn’t call it a magic solution, though, as every child is different. If your toddler feels super comfortable in a car seat, definitely give it a try. If not, it’s probably better to skip it. It’s generally recommended for kids under 40 pounds (around 18 kilos).
👉 Check out my packing list for toddler travel by car, plane, and train.
Stress-Free Road Trips With Toddlers
Car Safety
Car safety is super important when traveling with a toddler. Make sure your car seat is easy to travel with and meets all the safety rules for where you’re going. A car seat bag is a lifesaver—it keeps it clean and protected, especially if you’re flying, and makes it way easier to carry around.
Rest Stops
Plan to stop every 2-3 hours during long travel days so your toddler can stretch, snack, and recharge. Pack something simple like a ball or bubbles for a quick play session.
In-Car Entertainment
Keep your toddler entertained on the road with a playlist of their favorite songs, a favorite book, or simple car games like ‘I Spy.’ Just make sure to download everything in advance since you might not have Wi-Fi during the trip.
At the Destination
Keeping a Routine While Traveling With a Toddler
- Try to stick to your toddler’s usual nap and bedtime routines as much as you can—it helps them feel settled, even in a new place. Blackout curtains or portable shades are great for creating a familiar sleep environment, especially if the room isn’t as dark as they’re used to at home.
- Stick to familiar foods and try to keep regular meal times to make things easier for your toddler. Packing toddler-friendly utensils and a bib can also save you a lot of clean-up stress while you’re on the go.
Cultural Insights and Etiquette: Traveling With Toddlers Internationally
Other countries, other customs. What might be normal in your home country could be completely different in your travel destination. During our travels with kids, we’ve had our fair share of awkward moments simply because we didn’t know the local customs. For example, we used to get annoyed when our kids were constantly approached or touched by strangers.
Today, we understand that in some countries, this is just completely normal. Of course, it’s important (and perfectly okay) to set boundaries. But there’s no need to take it personally or feel mistreated.
Here are some tips to help you respect local norms while keeping your little one happy and comfortable:
Learn the Basics of Local Child-Friendly Norms
- Research how children are perceived in the culture you’re visiting. In many countries, toddlers are adored, and their loud, energetic behavior is warmly accepted (e.g., Thailand or Italy). In others, like Japan or Germany, quieter behavior in public spaces may be the norm.
- Simple gestures, like teaching your toddler to wave or say “thank you” in the local language, can delight locals and create warm interactions.
Understand Public Tantrum Etiquette
- Tantrums happen, but how they’re received can vary by culture. In more relaxed places like Latin America, you might find onlookers trying to distract or comfort your toddler, while in stricter cultures, like parts of East Asia, people might expect you to remove your child from the situation quickly.
- Prepare for these moments by knowing where you can step aside—a quiet park bench, a family restroom, or a shaded outdoor spot can work wonders for calming down.
Respect Quiet Spaces
- Be mindful of cultural expectations in quiet places, such as temples, museums, or public transportation. In many countries, like Japan or South Korea, silence in such areas is highly valued.
- Bring quiet activities like sticker books or coloring pages to keep your toddler entertained in these situations.
Prepare for Cultural Parenting Differences
- Parenting norms can vary widely—what feels normal to you might seem unusual to others. For example, breastfeeding in public is perfectly acceptable in many countries, while in others, it’s more discreet.
- If you’re unsure about what’s acceptable, observe how local parents interact with their kids or ask for advice from your hotel staff or host.
Food Customs for Little Ones
- Be prepared for local foods and mealtime customs that may differ from home. In some cultures, spicy or heavily seasoned foods are common, while in others, meal portions for kids might not exist.
- Bring familiar snacks or simple toddler utensils to ensure mealtimes go smoothly. Also, politely declining food for your toddler may require specific phrasing in some cultures—learning a few key phrases can go a long way.
Navigating Interactions With Locals
- In many countries, especially in Asia, locals may want to interact with your toddler—pinching cheeks, taking photos, or offering small gifts. While this is often meant kindly, it can feel overwhelming for parents or kids. A gentle but firm “no thank you” (with a smile) works well if you or your toddler are uncomfortable.
- On the flip side, don’t be surprised if your toddler gets extra attention! In some cultures, children are seen as a shared joy, and strangers might offer to help, play, or carry your child.
Dress Codes for Kids
- Some destinations have expectations about how children should be dressed. For example, in some places in Thailand, locals didn’t like the fact that I let my kids be naked on the beach. I had to respect that.
- Bringing weather-appropriate clothing that aligns with local norms can help you avoid curious stares or unsolicited advice.
Be Aware of Local Safety Practices
- Child safety standards can vary. For example, car seats may not be required or widely used in some countries, and playground equipment might not meet the same standards as in your home country.
- Research these differences ahead of time, and bring portable safety items (like a travel car seat or child harness) if needed.
Teach Respectful Behavior
- Prepare your toddler for cultural differences, like removing shoes before entering homes or temples, not touching items in markets, or waiting patiently in line.
- While toddlers won’t understand all nuances, setting a good example by following local customs can help teach them respectful behavior.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Traveling With Toddlers
Learning how to travel with a toddler on a budget doesn’t have to break the bank! Here are some tried-and-tested ways to make family adventures more affordable without sacrificing fun or comfort:
Choose Affordable, Family-Friendly Destinations
- Look for destinations known for being budget-friendly and toddler-welcoming, like Thailand, Portugal, or Costa Rica. These places offer affordable accommodations, low-cost transportation, and plenty of free or inexpensive activities to keep your little one entertained. The most expensive place we have traveled to with our kids so far is Singapore.
Book Accommodations With Perks for Families
- Opt for vacation rentals with kitchens to save on eating out. Cooking a quick breakfast or preparing snacks at “home” is not only budget-friendly but also toddler-approved.
- Check for places that provide free cribs, high chairs, or toddler beds to cut down on extra costs. Many family-friendly resorts and hotels offer these amenities at no additional charge.
Travel Off-Peak
- Avoid traveling during school holidays or peak tourist seasons when prices for flights and accommodations skyrocket. Shoulder seasons (just before or after peak times) are perfect for budget-conscious families, offering lower prices and fewer crowds.
Use Public Transportation
- Many cities have excellent public transportation systems that are much cheaper than renting a car or relying on taxis. Plus, toddlers often love the adventure of buses, trams, or trains!
- If renting a car is a must, book in advance and compare rates to snag the best deals.
Pack Snacks and Drinks
- Snacks are a lifesaver when traveling with toddlers, but airport and tourist attraction prices can be ridiculous. Pack your own snacks, reusable water bottles, and toddler-friendly meals to save money and avoid those overpriced “emergency purchases.”
Look for Free or Low-Cost Activities
- Research free attractions like parks, playgrounds, or museums with toddler-friendly exhibits. Many cities have walking trails or nature reserves that toddlers love exploring.
- Some museums or attractions offer discounted or free entry for young children—always ask!
Consider Discount Passes and Memberships
- If you’re visiting a major city, check for family discount passes that include entry to multiple attractions. Many passes also offer free public transportation for children.
- Memberships to global organizations like museum networks can provide free or discounted entry worldwide.
Leverage Your Points and Miles
- Use credit card rewards, airline miles, or hotel loyalty points to cover flights or accommodations. If you haven’t started using travel reward programs yet, now’s the time!
Pack Smart
- Save on luggage fees by packing light and only bringing what’s essential. Opt for compact toddler gear, like travel strollers and portable cribs, to avoid extra airline charges.
- For diapers, wipes, and other bulky items, bring a small supply and restock at your destination, in case it’s cheaper there.
Plan Ahead but Stay Flexible
- Planning in advance helps secure the best deals on flights, accommodations, and car rentals. However, staying flexible with dates or destinations can help you score last-minute discounts.
Final Thoughts on How to Travel With a Toddler
Figuring out how to travel with a toddler isn’t easy—it can be chaotic, messy, and downright exhausting, especially during long journeys or international flights. Yes, you’ll be ‘that family’ sometimes—the one with the loud toddler or the one asking the flight attendant for extra napkins while juggling snacks, toys, and hand luggage. But remember, every parent has been there, and most people are more understanding than you think.
So, take a deep breath, pack your patience (and lots of snacks!), and embrace the adventure. It won’t always be perfect, but it’ll always be memorable.
I hope this little guide has helped you a bit! Do you have any questions about how to travel with a toddler? What’s your favorite toddler travel tip? Please let me know in the comments—I’ll do my best to reply as quickly as possible!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
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