Traveling with babies and toddlers in the summer can be a wild ride! Family vacations are all about making amazing memories, but let’s be real—traveling with little ones can get pretty hectic. From keeping them entertained on the journey to making sure they’re comfy and safe, there’s always something to juggle.
I started hitting the road with my daughter when she was just a baby—her first 7-hour car ride was at 9 months old! We traveled the world regularly during her childhood, and she got used to the not-so-fun parts of traveling like waiting in lines and being stuck in a car or plane.
But we quickly got into a travel routine—deciding what activities she could bring, knowing that meal and bedtime schedules might be a bit off, and getting the hang of different environments. By the time she was 10, she could navigate the Atlanta airport on her own! Now she lives in Paris and travels all over Europe solo.
I’ve rounded up some tips to make your summer travels with young kids as smooth and fun as possible!
PS – Thats not her Guinness in the above picture…come on now… hahaha
PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY
Plan Ahead: Preparation is key when traveling with young children. Book your accommodations and travel tickets well in advance to secure family-friendly options. Research the amenities available at your destination to ensure they meet your family’s needs.
Pack Smart: Make a checklist of essentials, including diapers, baby wipes, snacks, toys, and extra clothing. Pack a dedicated carry-on bag with all the necessities to keep your baby or toddler comfortable and entertained during the journey.
One of my favorite hacks for car travel is making a “fun tote” for the older kids- in a medium rubbermaid container, pack car friendly activities your littles can play with, and place it in a location they can easily serve themselves. It helps them find something new on their own when they are bored.
Travel During Naptime: If possible, schedule your travel times to coincide with your child’s nap schedule. This can make the journey more peaceful and allow you some time to relax.
Comfortable Clothing: Dress your child in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are ideal, as they can be adjusted to changing temperatures in airports, planes, or cars.
TIPS FOR THE JOURNEY
Snacks and Drinks: Keep a variety of healthy snacks and drinks handy. Hydration is especially important in the summer, so make sure to offer fluids regularly. Avoid sugary snacks that can lead to energy spikes and crashes.
Entertainment: Bring a selection of toys, books, and games to keep your little one entertained. Consider downloading a few of their favorite shows or apps on a tablet or smartphone for emergencies.
One of my daughters favorite travel activities during our summer road trips was grabbing a map at each state’s visitor center. She loved tracking our progress and figuring out how much farther we had to go. We also had fun spotting different states’ license plates and learning about them. Turning travel into a fun educational game can be a great experience for kids.
Frequent Breaks: If traveling by car, plan for regular stops to allow your child to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. These breaks can also provide much-needed rest for the driver.
This is also a perfect time to Google some of those great ole American road side attractions and see what’s on your way – South of the Border will forever be a family favorite for us – this way you can get out for 30 minutes to let everyone have a snack, walk around and just be out of the car for a minute.
Comfort Items: Don’t forget to bring your child’s favorite comfort item, whether it’s a blanket, stuffed animal, or pacifier. These familiar objects can provide a sense of security in new environments.
MAKING THE MOST OF THE HOLIDAY
Child-Friendly Accommodation: Choose accommodations that cater to families with young children. Look for places with amenities like cribs, high chairs, and play areas. Proximity to attractions and conveniences like supermarkets and pharmacies is also a plus.
Keep Routines: Try to maintain your child’s usual routine as much as possible. Consistent nap times, meal times, and bedtime rituals can help your child adjust to the new environment and reduce stress.
If keeping normal bed time isnt possible because of late night outings (this is especially common overseas where everything just happens later), try to start adjusting their nap times before you leave home. This way you aren’t dealing with a new routine in a new place which can just turn into chaos
Safety First: Baby-proof your accommodation by checking for potential hazards such as sharp corners, loose wires, and accessible outlets. Bring outlet covers and other safety devices if necessary.
Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the summer weather by engaging in outdoor activities. Beaches, parks, and nature trails are great options for families. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your little one from the sun.
Be Flexible: Travel plans can often change, especially with young children. Be flexible and prepared to adjust your itinerary as needed. Allow for downtime in your schedule to accommodate your child’s needs.
Capture the Memories: Don’t forget to document your trip with photos and videos. These memories will be cherished for years to come and can be a fun way to reflect on your adventures.
Traveling with babies and toddlers in the summer requires a bit more planning and patience, but it’s well worth the effort. By preparing for the journey, packing wisely, and choosing child-friendly activities and accommodations, you can create a stress-free and enjoyable vacation for the whole family. Embrace the adventure, and make the most of the special moments spent exploring new places together.
