Travelling with kids: your guide to a stress-free holiday!
Whining in the back seat, overflowing luggage, chaos at the airport? A holiday with children can be a real challenge. But with the right planning and a few packing tips, you’ll be perfectly prepared – and arrive at your destination much more relaxed.
The essentials: How to pack for travelling with kids
When travelling, kids mainly need three things: entertainment, snacks, and a sense of comfort. 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 kids, but 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 help shorten a car journey. A change of clothes should also go in your hand luggage – after all, little accidents can always happen on the go. With an extra jumper, hoodie or cardigan, you'll also be prepared for chilly air conditioning.
Staying Healthy on the Go
Travelling with kids can be stressful – for them too. It's no surprise if they suddenly get an upset stomach or travel sickness. A sudden fever or a mosquito bite also needs to be treated while you're away. That's why a well-stocked travel first-aid kit is a must-have. The most important items are child-friendly remedies for fever or pain, stomach issues, and insect bites. Plasters and disinfectant shouldn't be forgotten either. It's always a good idea to take their vaccination record with you and find out before your family holiday if there are paediatricians nearby or who you can contact in an emergency.
Take the pressure off
One of the biggest challenges when travelling with children is helping them equalise the pressure in their ears during a flight, and avoiding the fuss that ear pain can cause. Dummies, drinks or sweets 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 they're great for the whole family. You can teach older children the Valsalva manoeuvre: hold your nose and try to breathe out with your mouth closed. To combat the dry air on the plane, things like saline nasal sprays, nasal ointments and eye drops can provide relief.
