Is your child ruining your travel plans? When you become a parent, a lot of things change and that includes traveling. If you loved jet-setting and taking all kinds of trips without thinking too much about it, you may find yourself in a state of confusion when you become a parent. This is because taking a trip with really young children can be unpredictable. And you never want to be caught unprepared.

Traveling with a toddler: The challenges and the benefits

Even before getting into a car or a plane, the preparation process of traveling with your child can be a little complicated. There are so many things to consider when taking a toddler on a flight, for instance. The right documentation has to be provided and some important rules have to be followed.

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Airtreks noted that travel expenses can be crazy too with child fares placed between 80-90% of the adult fares in many cases.

Realizing the complexities, you may be tempted to hold off on taking that trip with your kid. What does it matter, you may wonder. But as it turns out, traveling with your child does have some benefits.

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Blogger Annie Andre explained that taking kids on trips can help to broaden their horizons, improve their ability to adapt to changes, and even uncover some hidden interests they might have. Basically, opening a child’s mind also opens up their imagination and creativity.

8 Tips for traveling with a kid

Now that we’ve convinced you to plan that trip, you probably want to know how to prevent any travel drama and other ways to enjoy this experience with your toddler or a young child.

1. Planning is crucial: You are not just making plans for yourself but also for your kid too. For instance, Jennifer Fontaine, managing editor of Outdoor Families Magazine suggests that parents should come with a bagful of snacks. In addition to yummy treats, you may consider some fruits or berries to keep your little ones comfortable, energetic, and entertained.

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2. Safety: When it comes to kids, safety is important. Ensure you have your stroller in hand and your car seat is checked. Fatherly explains that most airlines can check the car seat for free so don’t fret so much about extra costs.

3. Fully-juiced gadgets: Owner of Hotel Jules, Will Hatton, suggests that travelers charge their gadgets before taking a trip. Airline outlets are usually crowded and the last thing you want is to be frustrated by low battery signals with a toddler on board.

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4. Something to swallow: When the pressure changes during a flight, your child may experience some discomfort in their ears. However, the swallowing motion created by latching on to a bottle can help. So even if your toddler is weaned, bring a bottle with a nipple just in case.

5. Your child’s health: One thing on the toddler travel checklist involves a visit to a doctor. Do this up to 8 weeks before the trip, SmartTraveller suggests. This gives you ample time tor the child to get vaccinated if required and learn other info on how the trip may affect their health.

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6. Travel light: Your attention should be on your child as much as possible. When you get distracted by extra luggage, things can get crazy. You have the option to ship some of your luggage ahead of time if you need to pack heavily.

7. Keep routines: As much as possible, maintain the same routine on a trip as you do at home. For instance, nap time, feeding time, etc should be observed. Having this stability can help improve your toddler’s comfort.

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8. Enjoy every moment: We won’t lie to you, traveling with a toddler, especially on a plane, can be hectic. And you cannot foresee everything that may go wrong. So the best advice is to simply enjoy every moment. Even the sucky times can make for a pretty great story that your child will one day enjoy.

Benefits of quality time with children

Traveling is one of the best ways to spend one-on-one time with your child. According to PsychologyToday, quality parent-child moments help you understand who your kid is and what interests them.

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Just like any worthy relationship, a strong connection to your child will only happen if you invest the time and effort into it. And taking trips together is one way to do that.

Keep in mind that you don’t need to wait for trips to do this. You can create memories even in your home by having activities planned such as game night, family dinners, cooking together, and simply having conversations.

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As you now know, traveling with a toddler isn’t something you do on a whim, but it’s actually a beneficial endeavor. Even though it has its tough times, you can have a fantastic experience with your child regardless.

It all comes down to careful planning and thinking ahead. So if you’re a travel-enthusiast, don’t be afraid to ignite that passion in your child too. Remember, your kid’s childhood goes by so fast so don’t forget to savor every moment.

Take that trip, pose for fun pictures together and explore the world around you with your little one.