Pack your children's clothing into a suitcase not matter where you are going in the U.S. Pack for the amount of days you plan on traveling, plus a few days extra. For summer include swim clothes, while in the winter, pack one sweater and have your child wear another sweater and a heavy jacket. Pack a first-aid kit, night light, book and one favorite toy too.
Place your suitcase into your car if you are traveling within the U.S. by car. Add a cooler with snacks and drinks for the ride. Car traveling works well for distances you can reach within 8 hours or approximately 400 miles. Pack the car with games and toys that the children can play with by themselves. Bring favorite CDs, napkins, trash bags and a lightweight blanket. Pack cell phone chargers too.
Bring a GPS or maps to help guide you while driving within the U.S. It is easier driving with children when you don't waste time asking for directions all the time. Be sure to stop every 3 to 4 hours to give children a break from the car. Also, bring important information, such as hotel reservation numbers, doctors' numbers and photos of your children in case they become lost.
Book airline tickets if you plan on traveling a great distance in the U.S. where a car journey would be too long. Children over the age of 2 are required to have their own seats on most airlines. Choose a time when children can nap or try a night flight to your destination. Be sure to carry the tickets and proper ID and copies of your children's birth certificates when you travel. Many airlines ask for this kind of documentation.
Carry a small bag with coloring books, a few crayons and toys without small parts to bring onto the plane. Pack a simple snack in a plastic bag for your children because some flights no longer offer meals.
Consider renting a car after you arrive at your destination if you are visiting a location where you cannot walk around easily or use public transportation. If you are staying with friends or relatives, you may not need a rental car.
Travel by bus as an alternative to driving or flying. Children over the age of two need their own seats like on airlines. Buses make lots of stops, but somebody else is doing the driving. Pack a carry-on with toys and snacks like you would an airline.
Travel by train as another option. It is slower than flying, but children can walk around more easily. Trains offer dining cars and some have sleeper cars. Arrive early because some seats are first come first serve. Pack a carry-on with toys and snacks. Leave large strollers at home, since trains aisles can be narrow. Bring a lightweight blanket for diaper changing.
