Pediatrician-Approved Tips for Traveling During the Holidays with Kids
The holidays are a magical time, filled with joy, family, and tradition. But let’s be honest, getting there can feel like a major logistical and willpower feat, especially when you are bringing children. As pediatric providers, we know that traveling during the busiest time of the year—whether by plane, train, or automobile — can add a layer of stress to your schedule. This month’s blog includes pediatrician-approved strategies to help keep your family safe, healthy, and most importantly, happy on the road. Read on for our essential tips to turn that overwhelming journey into a memorable part of your holiday adventure.
Preparation and Planning for Holiday Travel with Kids
Being prepared for anything that may happen is something most parents learn along the way. When traveling during the holidays, being prepared is critical.
Vaccines: Before any significant trip, we recommend ensuring your child’s vaccinations are up to date, especially if you plan to travel abroad or during the peak flu and RSV season (which is right now). Also, if your child has had a recent ear infection, talk with your pediatric provider about flying safety if you plan to travel by air.
Car Seats and Boosters: If you plan to rent a car or are flying, ensure you have a properly installed, age-appropriate car seat or booster seat. Either bring your own or confirm that the car rental company can provide one that meets all current safety standards.
Pack a Medical “Go-Bag”: Any time you travel – whether with children or not, you should always have a medical go-bag. This bag will include essential medications such as fever/pain relievers, prescription medications, a digital thermometer, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and an EpiPen, if needed.
Childproofing: Ensure that the place you are headed has appropriate safety equipment installed, such as outlet covers, cabinet locks, and corner protectors. If unsure, bring some to be safe!
How to Make the Journey Comfortable
Go with the Flow: The biggest piece of advice we can give parents is to build in extra time and to be flexible. Holiday travel is unpredictable, so plan for delays at security, traffic, and the unexpected meltdown here and there. If you are stressed, your children will likely feel that energy and be stressed too.
Keep a Schedule: We know that the fun, relaxed pace of vacation can lead to being loosey-goosey about schedules, but if you like calm, we recommend sticking to the schedule your child is accustomed to. Keeping naptime and bedtime as close to their regular schedule helps regulate mood and reduce stress. If you are crossing time zones, start gradual adjustments a few days before you depart. Ensure mealtimes also coincide with what kids are used to. Hungry kids are cranky kids, which isn’t fun for anyone.
Dress for Comfort: Dress kids (and yourself) in layers that can be added or removed as temperatures fluctuate during travel.
Be Prepared for Ear Pressure Changes: As an adult, you’ve likely learned strategies for combating ear pressure changes that occur while flying. Kids likely haven’t and need our help. Encourage infants to suck a pacifier or nurse during takeoff and landing. Older kids can chew gum, drink from a straw, or yawn to help equalize pressure in their ears.
Keeping Kids Entertained
“Are we there yet?”
To keep kids entertained and on their best behavior while traveling, be prepared with snacks and appropriate entertainment. Pack plenty of healthy, non-messy snacks like cut-up fruit, crackers, granola bars, and cheese to prevent hunger-induced tantrums. Bring reusable water bottles to ensure they stay hydrated. For entertainment, include books, coloring books, small surprise toys, and audiobooks along with screen time.
Take scheduled breaks during the journey. We recommend stopping every couple of hours for 15 to 20 minutes to stretch, use the bathroom, and let kids burn off any pent-up energy. Be sure to bring hand sanitizer and to enforce proper handwashing. If you are flying, wipe down all surfaces (tray tables, armrests, seat belts) with disinfectant wipes upon reaching your seats. If renting a car, do the same upon receiving it.
Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Traveling with kids is bound to be an adventure. Go with the flow and focus on making the most of the experience. Focus less on a jam-packed itinerary and checking off all the boxes, and instead on creating positive memories and enjoying your time together. Involve your child in planning for holiday travel. If they feel involved in what they are eating and doing during the journey, they will cope better.
We hope this holiday season brings your family much joy and happiness. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s health, vaccines, or anything else related to this blog, please reach out to schedule an appointment. Happy Holidays!
