Travelling is one of my favourite things to do. We were lucky enough to visit a few far flung places before having Little H which we’re very grateful for because travelling with kids is an entirely different experience!
Just going on just a short car journey can test your patience to the limit if the kids are grumpy/tired/bored, so going on a plane definitely needs some preparation.
All parents know that a happy child = happy parents, so here are some tips on how to keep kids happy when travelling. Don’t forget to scroll to the bottom of the post to enter my competition to win a Trunki travel pillow with holiday booking website Holiday Gems.
During The Car Journey
You don’t need stress before the holiday has even started so it’s a good idea to make sure the kids are happy in the car on the way to your destination.
Pack a lunchbox that the kids can easily reach if they need anything, this will avoid the inevitable “I’m hungry” whines from the back. If you’re on a long journey plan pit stops so they can stretch their legs and go to the loo without any motorway emergencies.
We also pack a bag just for the car full of toys, books and colouring to keep ours entertained. We also have the best invention ever – a dvd in the back of the car. You can easily go for the length of a film without hearing a peep from the backseat!
At The Airport
Once you’re through passport control there’s usually a bit of a wait at the airport which can be really boring for kids. Whenever we fly we pack a Trunki full of toys and snacks which comes in very handy. A few travel games are ideal, or you could let them buy a new book in one of the airport shops.
It’s also worth checking what’s available at the airport, we found a small soft play area at Gatwick – especially a good idea if you want to wear them out before the flight!
On The Plane
Flying with kids is stressful. As soon as you start queuing at the gate you know your fellow childfree passengers are hoping they don’t get stuck next to you.
Unhappy kids are not fun to travel with. This is where the Trunki full of toys mentioned above comes in handy! We also load the tablet full of games and videos, this is the one time where there’s no limit on screen time.
If you can get the kids to sleep on the plane then you’re winning. I’d recommend taking a pillow, blanket and putting them in pyjamas if you’re on a night time flight.
On Holiday
If you can go to a hotel with kids entertainment do it! We’ve been self-catering and to family hotels, and as much as we like to be in a villa on our own, a hotel with a kids’ club is a godsend. If the kids can make friends then they’re happy and you’ll get some peace.
Check out the local area before you go away to find out what family friendly excursions there are near your hotel. Kids probably aren’t going to be happy spending a lot of time sightseeing, but throw in a zoo or waterpark and you’ll have some happy little people.
A nap in the afternoon might not be easy, but if possible is a good idea for all ages to avoid tired kids having meltdowns when you’re out later than usual of an evening.
Hopefully, these tips should help to keep kids happy when travelling. What would your top tips be for any parents planning to travel with children?
The lovely people at Holiday Gems have supplied a fantastic Trunki Travel Pillow for me to giveaway to one lucky reader. This will definitely help to keep your child comfortable when travelling. Enter below…
Good luck!
Mummy in a Tutu
The Money Shed (@TheMoneyShed)
That pillow looks ace! Going to show my sister this as it’s ideal for her little girl!