If you’re ready to take a vacation but worry about traveling with a young child, relax. Yes, going on a trip with little ones can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. In the interest of happy family travel, we are pleased to present a few tricks and tips to ensure a successful holiday, even when the kids tag along.
Before You Go
Prior to buying airline tickets and booking hotel rooms, make sure you’re going to a kid-friendly destination. No, you don’t have to build your entire trip around the kids, but the more there is for them to do, the more likely everyone will have a good vacation.
If your kids are old enough to walk, they are old enough to go through TSA security at the airport. Be sure to explain how this procedure helps to ensure safe travel without going into details. Kids older than 12 can walk through a security scanner alone, but they won’t be out of sight of their parent or guardian. Babies and toddlers may be carried through X-ray scanners in a parent’s arms.
While You’re Traveling
Take along a child-size carry-on bag for each kid in your family. Stuff it with a few favorite toys and plenty of healthful snacks. Eschew sugary treats in lieu of whole grain cereals, dried fruits, granola bars, and yummy trail mix.
Most airlines are willing to bend the liquid rules a bit when you travel with infants and small children. According to the TSA website, allowed items include breast milk and child-size containers of juice. Accessories to cool milk and juices are generally allowed, although they will be subject to screening. Gel-filled teething rings and unopened jars of baby food may also be allowed in carry-on bags. Continue reading
