Chipmunk Clothes Swap

I have a 5-year-old and a two-year-old. They are typical boys and then some. Full of energy and always wanting to explore, learn and question everything they see. They make great travellers once we are out and about, but the journey to the next destination needs careful thought prior to hopping onto the plane, car, train, bus or boat.

Here are a few basic tips and tricks when it comes to travelling with children of a younger age.

Tell Them What Is Going On

Unless it is a big surprise (I am totally for that), I found that giving them as much information as possible, even if they are quite young, can be really helpful. I like to sugar coat it a little as well, it not only helps me get excited about it and push away any of my own nerves, but it also helps the little ones get excited. So instead of explaining how long they are going to have to sit still on a plane and behave, try focussing on the positive. For example; “There is an amazing pilot who will fly the plane and you might get to hear him over the loudspeaker! You get your very own seat on this huge, amazing plane which flies in the air and you will get to see clouds up close”. However, you want to word it, follow Disney’s advice and make it ‘magical’.

Activities

I usually take their favourite colouring book and pencils. Another great tip though is to go to the discount stores prior to travelling and buy a few cheap toys or activity books they have not seen or played with before. It doesn’t matter if they are cheap as it really is specifically for the journey and having something ‘new’ for them to focus on. For me, it works every time.

Toilet Time

This definitely has to be one of my biggest challenges. My two-year-old was recently toilet trained but still has a few accidents along the way. I also discovered he is more prone to ‘accidents’ while travelling. It is to be expected. Children respond to different environments in different ways. Prepare for this, just in case. I find if I plan for the worst-case scenario then if it does happen it doesn’t frazzle me. Extra clothes, wipes and wash bags are never a bad idea.

I Made a Mess

Just to echo the above, children like to make a mess. Sometimes, the mess can get on them and changes of clothes are needed. I would pack 3 sets of clothes for each child if travelling for longer than 5 hours. All it takes is one a glass of water spilt, and then (usually just before reaching the destination) a snack is suddenly down their front rather than in their mouth. You may not have any, but I always like to prepare, as having a child with no pants or top on can cause a little unwanted attention.

Music

Preparing their favourite songs to listen to is so practical. Yet it always amazes me how different the atmosphere is once the music goes on. If you are on a plane or train you may have to use a phone or iPad with the tunes preloaded and take headphones. Also, remember the lack of WiFi if not on roaming if you are travelling abroad.

My Suitcase

When my 5-year-old was younger I discovered how much enjoyment he received from packing his very own carry-on bag. Now, regardless of whether it is a flight or road trip I ask him to fill his child-sized suitcase or backpack with everything he wants to take. It is quite endearing to see what he fills it with, sometimes it is surprising, the simple or funny things he chooses. It also provides a simple comfort of home while away. Although the environment around them is different they still have those few things in a box or bag which they know belongs to them and is not changing.