Travelling with kids: Your guide to a stress-free holiday!
Whining in the back seat, overflowing luggage, chaos at the airport? Holidays with children can be a challenge. But with the right planning and a few packing list tips, you'll be perfectly prepared – and arrive at your destination much more relaxed.
The Essentials: How to pack for travelling with children
When travelling, children need three things above all: entertainment, snacks, and a sense of comfort. Their favourite cuddly toy belongs in the suitcase just as much as games or books. It's best to tailor the activities to your mode of transport: on a train or plane, you can play together with your children; if you're driving, they should be able to entertain themselves. Travel-sized board games are perfect for the train, while a water-painting mat with a water pen can help shorten a car journey. A change of clothes should also go in your hand luggage – after all, little accidents can always happen along the way. With an extra jumper, hoodie or cardigan, you'll also be prepared for the chill of air conditioning.
Healthy on the go
Travelling with children can be stressful – for them too. It's no wonder if they suddenly get an upset stomach or travel sickness strikes. A sudden fever or a mosquito bite also needs to be treated while you're away. A well-stocked travel first-aid kit is therefore a must. The most important items are child-friendly remedies for fever or pain, gastrointestinal issues, and insect bites. Plasters and disinfectant should not be forgotten either. It's always best to take their vaccination record with you and find out before your holiday whether there are paediatricians available locally, or who you can contact in an emergency.
Take the pressure off
One of the biggest challenges when travelling with children is dealing with the change in air pressure on a plane – and the chaos that ear pain can cause. Soothers, drinks, or sweets during take-off and landing can help relieve the pressure. It's important that your children are awake for this. Special earplugs can also help – and they're great for the whole family. You can teach older children the Valsalva manoeuvre: hold your nose and try to breathe out with your mouth closed. To combat the dry air on the plane, things like saline nasal sprays, nasal ointments, and eye drops can be very effective.
