CHECKLIST FOR TRAVELLING WITH KIDS
Written by: Caroline Meyer
Some people dread going down to the supermarket with kids, never mind going on holiday. It might seem that it could be more of a chore than a pleasure, but with some planning, you can have a great time away with the whole family.
THE PLANNING BEFORE THE TRIP
Make sure you have double checked your flight schedule at least a full day in advance to make sure the departure times have not changed (do the same on the way back). Some airlines allow you to sign up for notifications in case there are changes nearer to departure time. Make sure you have printed the boarding passes to avoid the long lines at check-in. Explain to the kids how the security works at the airport to avoid stressing when they get there. They need to expect to lose what they are carrying for a short while as it goes through the machine. Also explain precautions such as saying “bomb” etc. to the older children to avoid incidents. Only take what you can safely carry while juggling children. You need to be able to remain in control of the luggage and the children on your own.
WHAT TO PACK IN THE CARRY ON
For older children, pack wipes for cleaning hands and faces etc., bag for garbage or a sudden regurgitation. Pack 1 set of spare clothes, books and toys, hand sanitizer, snacks and drinks in refillable bottles as well as any medication they might need. For children with special medical needs, pack a 2nd set of medication in to your luggage in case you need it due to some mishap. Babies and toddlers will need all of these items plus spare underwear if they are in the potty-training phase, nappies or pull-ups and a blanky as well as a favourite soft toy. If you are travelling out of the country, take your prescription note from your doctor to present if questioned at customs.
HOW TO ENTERTAIN THEM ON THE TRIP
For the smaller kids, you can pack some wipe clean books and special toys for the trip. You can also look at downloading favourite music to listen to or audio books for them to concentrate on. Older children might like books and toys but can also get involved with games such as twenty questions and I spy. You can also take along a tablet or similar device that is easy to carry along for music and movies. You can also pack games to play at your destination or ones that work with magnets that can be played anywhere. Stimulate their imaginations with books they can draw and write in, colouring books or books they can stick stickers in to. Remember some coloured pencils to colour and write with. Make sure you have enough for everyone so there are no fights over the toys and games.
SPECIAL ITEMS NEEDED
If you need to bring or use special equipment such as a wheelchair, you need to let the airline know ahead of time. They can advise on any restrictions and also advise you on the assistance you can expect. If your child needs a special diet, the airline may be able to assist with a special meal, but you may need to bring your own.
CARRY ON CHECKS
Remember to check what is allowed and what isn’t in your carry-on bag. Some airlines even restrict how much breast milk or formula you can carry on. Do not take wrapped gifts as they will be unwrapped for inspection. Check on sharp items such as nail scissors as well as limits on liquids etc. Depending on where you are going, return inspections may be even more stringent, so avoid having anything in your carry on that might cause an issue or delay, leading to frustrated, unhappy children as well.
Do your research and plan ahead so that your vehicle and rooms are booked so you can settle in wherever you are staying. Plan outings in advance and prepare for spills, hunger, thirst and boredom. The better prepared you are, the more likely you are to have a great time on your vacation with the kids.