Traveling with kids can be an incredible adventure, filled with memories that last a lifetime. But let’s be honest—it can also be a bit daunting. From packing all the essentials to keeping your little ones entertained without relying on screens, there’s a lot to consider. At Lulladise, we believe that with the right preparation and a few clever hacks, your family trip can be both enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s how to make it happen.
1. Preparing for Your Flight
Start with a Checklist: Begin by creating a detailed checklist of everything you’ll need for the trip. Include essentials like passports, tickets, and travel insurance, as well as items specific to your children, such as snacks, favorite toys, and any necessary medications. (Check our Smart Checklist at the end)
Plan for Extra Time: When traveling with kids, everything takes a little longer—whether it’s getting through security or boarding the plane. Allow plenty of extra time so that you don’t feel rushed, and you can handle any unexpected delays with ease.
Talk to Your Kids About the Trip: Prepare your kids for what to expect during the journey. Explain the process of flying, what the airport will be like, and how they can help make the trip smoother. This can help reduce anxiety and make them feel more involved.
2. Packing Smart
Pack Light, But Pack Smart: When traveling with kids, it’s tempting to pack everything but the kitchen sink. However, packing light can make your journey much easier. Focus on multi-purpose items, like a travel backpack that can expand to fit everything you need, or a sling carrier that doubles as a cozy seat for your little one.
Essentials for the Flight: In your carry-on, include a change of clothes for each child, plenty of snacks, and a few favorite toys or books. Items like our Portable Montessori Busy Board can be a lifesaver, keeping your child entertained while also encouraging learning. Don’t forget wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and any comfort items like a blanket or stuffed animal.
Organize with Packing Cubes: Use packing cubes to keep your suitcase organized. Assign one cube for each child’s clothes and another for shared items like toiletries and extra diapers. This will make it easier to find what you need without rummaging through your entire bag.
3. Keeping Kids Entertained Without Screens
Interactive Toys and Games: Instead of relying on screens, bring along toys and games that encourage interaction and creativity. Our Montessori Busy Board is a fantastic option for this. It’s compact, easy to carry, and provides endless entertainment with various activities that stimulate fine motor skills and cognitive development.
Storytime and Audiobooks: Bring along a few new books for storytime during the flight. Audiobooks are also a great option—they’re engaging, can be enjoyed as a family, and don’t require screen time.
Snacks as Entertainment: Pack a variety of snacks in small portions. Not only will this keep your child’s hunger at bay, but it also doubles as an activity. Let them explore different tastes and textures, and even involve them in choosing what to eat next.
Creative Play: Encourage your child’s creativity with activities like drawing or coloring. A small notebook and a set of colored pencils can keep them busy for a while. You can also play simple games like “I Spy” or make up stories together based on what you see out the window.
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of preparation and the right tools, you can turn your journey into an enjoyable experience for the whole family. At Lulladise, we’re here to support you every step of the way with products designed to make parenting simpler and more joyful.
Bon voyage, and happy travels!
Smart Travel Essentials Checklist for Kids
1. Important Documents
- Passports and ID cards
- Boarding passes or flight tickets
- Travel insurance documents
- Emergency contact information
- Copies of important documents (digital and physical)
2. Comfort and Safety
- Favorite blanket or stuffed animal
- Travel pillow or neck support
- Sling carrier for toddlers or babies
- Travel-sized first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain reliever)
- Medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
3. Clothing and Accessories
- Change of clothes for each child (in your carry-on)
- Layered clothing for different temperatures (sweaters, jackets)
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Pajamas for overnight flights
- Sunhat and sunglasses
4. Entertainment and Activities
- Portable Montessori Busy Board or other interactive toys
- New books or coloring books with crayons
- Small puzzles or travel-friendly board games
- Audiobooks or podcasts downloaded on a device
- Small, non-messy crafts (like sticker books)
5. Snacks and Drinks
- Variety of snacks (crackers, dried fruit, granola bars)
- Spill-proof water bottles
- Sippy cups or bottles for younger kids
- Baby food pouches and utensils (if needed)
- Snacks packed in small, easy-to-grab portions
- Portable high chair
6. Hygiene and Health
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Diapers and changing pads (if needed)
- Extra pacifiers or teethers
- Travel-sized toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion)
- Tissues and disposable bags for trash
7. Sleep and Nap Essentials
- Noise-canceling headphones or earmuffs
- Eye mask (for older kids)
- Small blanket or travel-sized sleeping bag
- Portable white noise machine (if your child uses one)
8. Packing and Organization
- Packing cubes for organizing clothes and accessories
- Diaper bag or large carry-on backpack
- Ziplock bags for liquids or snacks
- Extra plastic bags for dirty clothes or trash
9. Travel Gear
- Stroller or lightweight travel buggy
- Car seat (if needed)
- Travel backpack (expandable for extra storage)
- Baby carrier for hands-free travel