Travelling with kids: Your guide to a stress-free holiday!
Whinging in the back seat, overflowing luggage, chaos at the airport? A holiday with children can be a challenge. But with the right planning and a few packing list tips, you’ll be well prepared – and arrive at your destination much more relaxed.
The essentials: How to pack for travelling with kids
When travelling, kids need three main things: entertainment, food and a sense of security. Their favourite cuddly toy belongs in the suitcase just as much as games or books. It's best to tailor the activities to your mode of transport: on a train or plane, you can play together with your children; if you're driving, they should be able to keep themselves entertained. Travel-sized board games are perfect for the train, while a water-painting mat with a water pen can shorten a car journey, for example. A spare set of clothes also belongs in your hand luggage – after all, plenty of little accidents can happen along the way. With an extra jumper, hoodie or cardigan, you'll also be prepared for any chilly air conditioning.
Healthy Travels
Travelling with children can be stressful – and that goes for your little ones too. It's no wonder if they suddenly get an upset tummy or a bout of travel sickness. Sudden fevers or insect bites also need to be treated on the go. A well-stocked travel first aid kit is therefore a must. The most important items are child-friendly remedies for fever or pain, gastrointestinal issues, and insect bites. Plasters and disinfectant shouldn't be forgotten either. It's always a good idea to bring their vaccination record with you and find out before your family holiday if there are paediatricians in the area or who you can contact in an emergency.
Feeling the pressure?
One of the biggest challenges when flying with children is helping them equalise the pressure in their ears – and avoiding the chaos that ear pain can cause. Giving them a soother, a drink or a sweet to suck on during take-off and landing can help reduce the pressure. It’s important that your children are awake for this. Special earplugs can also help – and not just for the kids, but for the whole family. You can teach older children the Valsalva manoeuvre: hold your nose and try to breathe out gently with your mouth closed. To combat the dry air in the cabin, things like saline nasal sprays, nasal ointments and eye drops can provide relief.
