Research your destination carefully. The New Jersey area boasts several resorts with water parks and other attractions that appeal to children, but traveling with a one-year-old may limit your options. The time of year you choose to travel may also affect your destination: a few days on the beach at the Jersey Shore can be a relaxing summer getaway for the whole family, while in the fall you may choose instead to visit one of the Tri-State Area's many apple or pumpkin farms. Many of the latter offer hayrides and other activities that will entertain toddlers and children of all ages.
Book accommodations in advance. When you are traveling with a one-year-old, you will most likely want to stay in family-friendly hotels. Some hotels offer toddler beds or even cribs, which you will need to request upon booking the accommodations. Depending on your child's eating habits, you might also want to look for hotels with restaurants that offer kids' menus, or those that will let you bring your own food or snacks for your baby.
Plan your departure around your child's sleep schedule. It is not worth it to interrupt your child's established sleep schedule for a weekend getaway. If your child sleeps well in the car, you may want to leave shortly before his usual nap time in hopes that he will sleep in the car for some or all of the drive. If he does not sleep well in a moving car, you may be better off leaving in the morning after your child wakes up, or at least a few hours before his usual nap time.
Don't forget to relax. The purpose of going on a weekend trip is to take some time off and relax, even with your one-year-old in tow. Make time for the attractions you want to see at your destination, but don't forget to take some time to unwind. Take a walk along the boardwalk at the Jersey Shore, or visit a small, historic town like Tarrytown, New York.
