From the very young to bigger kids, keeping a routine is one of the best things you can do. While traveling will certainly be a big change from the norm, try to eat as close to the times you’d normally eat. Try to sleep during normal nap and sleep times too. By keeping some semblance of normalcy, you’ll avoid tantrums which is likely your goal for the entire trip, isn’t it?
And what should you do if a tantrum arises and the entire airport, museum, shopping mall, hotel, restaurant, or ancient landmark turns to stare? Just keep your cool. Because anyone with kids knows exactly what that’s like. Remember, it’s about traveling light. Leave your embarrassment and anger at home. They are heavy burdens that don’t need to be dragged along for the ride. Be sure to take your sense of humor along though because you’re going to need it no matter where you’re headed.
Loved this! I’ve traveled 24 round trips with my 4 yr old and 13 of those adding her 2 yr old sister. Usually I’m doing it alone and the trips are cross country. I have each girl with their own toddler sized carryon roller bag and backpack. I pack airplane surprises, toys, pillow, blanket and special stuffy along with their tablet, headphones and 2 extra pairs of clothes in their roller bag and food in their backpacks. We’ve been stranded in airports overnite numerous times so I learned to keep 3 days worth of essentials.
One quick note: all major carseat technicians and websites will advise against renting carseats from rental car companies. Depending on your arrival time and stock on hand, you are not guaranteed a seat. There is also no way to ensure that the seats are taken care of according to manufacturers recommendations, so just not safe according to experts. We pack ours in their original boxes and pad with clothes/diapers for xtra protection. You can check the box for free at ticketing counter and not hassle with it until your destination!
Thanks for a great site!
Thank you for the comment and the great additional advice! We agree, renting car seats is not ideal. Short of hauling your own, you have no idea what awaits at your destination. We’ve updated the article to reflect this.