I could write a book about traveling with kids. But that’s nothing unique because pretty much every parent could be the author of that book. Kids are extremely unpredictable, especially young ones, and that’s why there is so much pressure when it comes to packing a travel bag for toddlers
I figure it has more to do with being a parent than anything else. You just feel so pressured to not mess up that you over think. At the end of the day, it is all about knowing your kid and following his or her lead to take every decision about him or her during the toddler years.
Toddlers are especially very confusing because they are becoming a full-fledged person with likings and dislikings. So you don’t want to fail them by not packing according to their development.
One idea that you must embrace is that the luggage for toddlers can’t be cut short. You have to take everything they may possibly need with you – and choose the destination wisely.
Anyway, go with instinct while packing for your toddlers but the following things are the ones I feel must be part of their luggage:
Toys
Toys are very important for babies. To us they can be annoying and just one more thing to clean up, but kids treat them as if they are an actual person with feelings and all. So when your boy is attached to “Woody”, you better pack it in.
Also, toys are a great way to make a child feel more comfortable in an alien place. it is something familiar, and it will prove to be extremely helpful when he or she gets into one of those moods.
A Set of Favorite Bed Sheet Sets
Yes, I know what you are thinking: no way am I bringing a set of bed sheets with me! However, let me tell you my reasoning behind bringing a set of bed sheets. The intention is again to take something familiar with you in a strange place. You can manage a bit easier if your baby is difficult throughout the day because it is easy to distract him, but during nights he could be hard to handle if there are no distractions.
So the idea is that the familiar bed sheets might provoke some sense of belonging and calm in your babies and they can sleep soundly. Just be sure to use them a couple of times at home first so your child will recognize them, then keep them set aside for when you travel.
Medicines
Before leaving your home city, always get your kid thoroughly examined by a doctor and take some prescription medicine along on the trip for common colds and illnesses. I don’t leave home for vacation without packing baby aspirin, an antibiotic, and something for upset tummies!
Always Pack Warm Clothes
As us parents are well aware, our kids can fall sick anytime so it’s good to be prepared. Warm clothes can protect them from the weather, both damp and chilly temps. Even if you are traveling to a warmer region, stay on the safe side and travel with all sorts of clothes.
As us parents are well aware, our kids can fall sick anytime so it’s good to be prepared. Warm clothes can protect them from the weather, both damp and chilly temps. Even if you are traveling to a warmer region, stay on the safe side and travel with all sorts of clothes. Sun hats for kids are also essential for traveling during the warmer seasons, as you’ll want to be sure your kids are protected from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Sleeping Net
Don’t take the risk, even one night without a sleeping net is not suggested. Pack the sleeping net in case you won’t be able to find one at your destination. Also, a week before leaving, start putting your baby under the sleeping net each night at bedtime so that she/he can get used to the idea of it while still at home. Trust me, you won’t like it if your kid doesn’t take to the sleeping net in a foreign country.
Hopefully these ideas for packing a travel bag for toddlers will help make your vacation a bit easier and less stressful so you and the kids both can enjoy your time away from home!