Prepare for travel as far in advance as possible to help avoid many last-minute problems. Allow as much time as possible to get where you are going. If driving, plan to stop several times during a long drive because toddlers require a lot of exercise. Toddlers often follow a schedule of eating, sleeping and playing and will still expect to do these things. Anticipating your toddler's moods --- hunger, tiredness and boredom --- allows you to act before she becomes fussy or frustrated.
Research hotels carefully to be sure they are kid-friendly. Asking family and friends for hotel reviews can also help you choose the right hotel for your trip. Hotels that cater to families with children generally include useful amenities like childproofing of rooms, step stools, cribs and kid menus. When booking a hotel by phone, mention that you will be bringing a toddler. Some hotels offer activities and other considerations for children. Staying in a vacation rental or hotel suite that has a kitchenette may be a good idea if you are traveling with multiple children.
Traveling by plane introduces a separate set of issues for which you must prepare. Avoid standing in long check-in lines with your toddler by checking in 24 hours in advance via the Internet. Check to see if your airline is one of many that allow families with small children to board early. Making sure your toddler passes through the metal detector without the alarm sounding will avoid the need for additional screening. Baby milk, juice, formula and food that exceeds 3.4 oz. should be declared for screening. Give your toddler something to chew or suck on while flying to cope with air pressure changes. If you are traveling internationally, make sure to get a passport for your toddler.
Traveling with the right necessities assures that your toddler has everything necessary to remain content. Pack a bag with first aid supplies and all medications and vitamins your toddler is taking. Bring enough bottled water and food for all meals, snacks and any unexpected delays. Also pack enough baby milk, formula and diapers if your toddler still requires these items. If you are flying, follow your airline's guidelines for packaging food.
Pack small toys and activities to keep your toddler entertained while traveling. Your toddler may spend more time playing with new toys rather than old toys. If you have a portable DVD player, bring that along with a few of your toddler's favorite cartoon DVDs. Don't forget to bring a stroller if you plan to do a lot of walking.
If you have yet to decide where you would like to travel with your toddler, there are many ideas to consider. Visiting family or friends in different states and countries may be a way to expose your toddler to different people, sights and cultures. Zoos and aquariums introduce your toddler to a variety of animals and sea creatures. Kid-friendly theme parks and family resorts may also be an exciting travel idea for older toddlers.
