Summer is in full effect and it’s the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with family traveling and exploring. 

Traveling with kids can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a lot of work. 

What I’ve found that has helped me was planning and preparing ahead with a travel checklist.

It can be really stressful waiting until the last minute to pack your bags and get everything ready. 

You never know what kind of surprises might pop up and need your attention at the last minute. Like a stomach bug or breaking up two squabbling kids. And then you’re left with less time to get prepared for your trip. 

Prepare Ahead of Time

That’s why I like to plan and prepare ahead with a travel checklist.

Our family is gearing up and getting ready for summer vacations and so I put together a travel checklist for our toddlers. I’ve found that having a consolidated packing list has made my life easier and I can just check things off as I go.

When traveling with kids, you always want to be overprepared than underprepared. You never know what kind of accidents will happen. Having all of your necessities with you will make your life easier, ease your anxiety, and come in handy. 

When we were traveling and visiting my parents out of town, my oldest came down with a fever. We didn’t have any children’s Tylenol handy. 

My son is extremely difficult to give medicine to and so we prefer to give him a Tylenol suppository if his fever is really bad. He fights, spits up, and sometimes even vomits all of the medicine back up. We never know if he’s really getting the full dose of medicine when he’s sick. And so it was recommended to use a suppository instead of oral medication for him. It was really late at night and my husband had to travel to three different pharmacies to find Tylenol, Pedialyte, and a few other essentials. 

I learned my lesson that night and now I pack a thermometer, medicine for me and the kids, and an emergency first aid kit.

Trust me, you never really know what kind of emergencies happen and what you will ever need. You can even keep the first aid kit in your car. Just remember to check up on the expiration dates and replace things as needed. 

I like to have my packing list ready and I usually start to pack about 2-3 days in advance. The only things that I pack at the last minute are toiletries like the kids’ toothbrushes, toothpaste, and baby shampoo. 

Tips for Traveling with Kids

Plan Ahead When Traveling

Make a list of all the things you need to do and pack and do it well in advance. This will help you avoid last-minute stress and make sure you have everything you need.

Pack Light

Kids can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack light so you can move around easily. Pack only the essentials, and leave anything else behind.

Be Flexible During Your Travels

Things will go wrong when you’re traveling with kids, so be prepared to roll with the punches. If your flight is delayed, or your hotel room isn’t what you expected, don’t let it ruin your trip. Just go with the flow and make the best of it.

Bring Activities for Kids

Kids can get bored easily, so bring along some activities to keep them entertained. This could include books, toys, games, or even just a deck of cards.

Take Breaks

Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take breaks throughout the day so your kids can rest and recharge. This will help everyone have a more enjoyable trip.

Have Fun!!

Traveling with kids can be a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun. Make sure to relax and enjoy yourself, and don’t forget to take some time to bond with your kids.

Summer Travel Destination Ideas

Beaches

Beaches are a great place for kids to run around and play. They can swim, build sandcastles, and just enjoy the sun and sand.

Theme Parks

Theme parks are a lot of fun for kids of all ages. They can ride roller coasters, meet their favorite characters, and enjoy all the rides and attractions.

Zoos and Aquariums

Zoos and aquariums are a great way to learn about animals. Kids can see all sorts of different animals, from lions and tigers to penguins and dolphins.

Museums

Museums can be a lot of fun for kids, too. They can learn about history, art, science, and more.

National Parks

National parks are a great place to explore the outdoors. Kids can hike, camp, fish, and more.

Road Trips

Road trips are a great way to see the country. Kids can enjoy the scenery, play games, and listen to music.

No matter where you go, summer travel with kids can be a lot of fun. Just remember to plan ahead, pack light, be flexible, and have fun!

Travel Checklist for Toddlers

I created a printable packing list for kids that you can use when you’re traveling with kids this summer. It’s a pretty simple and basic packing list with areas for you to add additional items for your family. 

I’ve found that having a list written out in front of me helps ease my anxiety because I can see everything that I have, need, and what’s missing. You can easily check things off and see what else is missing and what you need. 

Traveling should be a fun experience and don’t let the stress of packing or forgetting something put a damper on your mood. 

Click below for my traveling checklist for toddlers. Have a great time making memories with your little ones and remember to be safe. Happy traveling!

Printable Travel Checklist for Toddlers