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Thursday, December 6, 2012

Tips for traveling with kids this holiday!


It is that time of year again, the dreaded holiday travel... with kids in tow! Here are few helpful hints to make this a little easier on you, whether you are traveling by car or plane!

Have a set itinerary, this is not the time to 'wing it' or just go with the flow. Kids like routine, and when you are traveling it is good to set one. If at all possible try to leave earlier in the morning whether driving or flying. Children do not always sleep during transport so it is best not to put them in a position where they will lose sleep. A tired passenger is a recipe for disaster; they get cranky and are more susceptible to getting sick. Try to plan travel where you can still take advantage of a naptime and getting them to the destination before bedtime.

Have snacks and small toys/electronics/activity books in a bag that is within reach at all times! Try to avoid sugary snacks that will give your child a good old 'crash and burn' and go for something with a bit more substance. Gold Fish crackers, raisins, granola bars, fruit & veggie smoothie packets are all good choices. My favorites are Happy Tots- they are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and have options for babies and older kids! Check out their site:


Pack an extra change of clothes that is easily accessible in case there is an accident! Other must haves for your carry-on tote or car bag are; wipes, hand sanitizer, bottled water, gum (for the bigger kids), and Emergen C packs!! I swear by these... you should all take one before travel, during and when you reach your destination!

For games, toys, etc... Pack coloring books, crayons, small wipe board, books, activity book with stickers and the iPad! I do not leave my house without the iPad... it entertains my 13 year old just as much as my two year old. Load it with movies, and games- some of my favorite little kids apps are:




Traveling by plane is a little more difficult then car since you have the ear popping factor, and a much higher risk of getting sick! If you are breastfeeding, then try and feed right before you get on the plane. Bring an eyedropper and just before take off drop some breast milk in the baby's nasal cavity. This will help prevent ear popping and kill germs they breathe in. Breast milk is an excellent resource for that... also it will make the baby sneeze and sneezing is the body's was of rejecting germs. You can continue to administer the drops about every hour. If you are bottle-feeding then do feed before take off.  Depending on the age and doctors okay, I would give baby some Tylenol. It will help with the ear pain and possibly get the baby to sleep through the flight. For toddlers try warm milk, hot chocolate... any warmer liquid to help kill germs they breathe in. Make sure to sanitize their hands and face as much as possible! You can also give toddlers a little Tylenol or Benedryl to help them relax during travel whether plane or car!

This can be a stressful time for parents, try to remain calm and not get agitated with each other... it only makes things worse. We do our best as parents to keep our kids from screaming, tantrums, kicking the seat in front of them, etc... But every now and then you will have someone who gives you the glare. Don't let it get to you... everyone is a judge these days!!

Happy Travels!

J'aime la vie by Victoria Antoinette

Stephanie Antoinette
Founder & M.O.M. (Master of Multitasking)