Tried and true parenting hacks for holiday travel

Getting away with your family is great. But for little ones, getting there isn’t usually as much fun as being there.

Whether it’s a long “are we there yet?” car ride or a cramped airplane, kids can get cranky, frustrated and bored.

Here are some tips and tricks for parents to help everyone enjoy both the trip AND the destination.

Before you go

• Talk about the trip ahead of time. If this is the first time your child is traveling, talk about what will happen to help calm any fears. Let them know they can bring a favorite stuffed animal or blankie to feel secure and comfortable.
• If you’re changing time zones, help your family adjust by going to bed or waking up at the new time. Do this for a few days before you leave.
• Let the child make choices. Find opportunities to let the kids make the decision. Maybe it’s a choice between two restaurants or the type of music to listen to in the car. This will help them feel like they have some control over an unfamiliar environment and are included in the planning of the adventure.

Driving or flying

• A bag of fun. Help your child fill a backpack or carry-on bag with things to use during the trip. You might also bring a surprise (a new book, game or toy) to hand out midway. It’s best to take items that don’t have lots of pieces that can get lost.
• Age-appropriate snacks. These could include fruit pouches, popcorn, fresh fruit, granola bars, cheese and crackers.
• Travel games. Verbal games like “I spy” and “20 questions” or “Would you rather” are great because you can do them anywhere. If you’re driving, pick items a distance ahead so you don’t pass them before your child can guess. If you’re flying, see what shapes your child might recognize in the clouds. Card games like Spot-It or Go Fish can also be used while traveling and at the hotel.
• Screens. If your kids use tablets and earphones, talk about limits on when to use them. Download approved games or movies before the trip.
• Painter’s tape. This has a dual purpose. You can use it while traveling to create Tic-Tac-Toe boards the family can play on. When you get to your destination, use it to cover outlets if you need to baby-proof a room.
• Emergency supplies. Accidents happen. Keep a few supplies handy including a change of clothes, baby wipes, band aids and a small towel. Bring medications you think your kids might need plus your pediatrician’s phone number. (If you use My PeaceHealth and you're staying in the US, you can connect with your child's doctor via the portal.)

Flying

• Empty water bottle. Bring an empty bottle for every member of your family to stay hydrated as you travel. Once you pass through security, you can fill it up before the flight. Airports usually have water bottle filling stations at the water fountains.
• Don’t board early. Even though families are allowed to board before other passengers, it’s not always a good idea. It means trying to keep the kids entertained while you’re waiting for everyone else to board. Instead, wait until boarding is almost over to allow the kids more time to stretch their legs by the gate. Alternatively, if you’re traveling with two parents, have one board early to stow the carry-ons and get your seats ready, then have the second parent board with everyone else closer to take-off time.
• Warm bottle or gum. Depending your child’s age, have a warm bottle or gum to use during take-off. It’ll help their ears pop. Ask the flight attendant to fill the bottle with half hot and half cold water so it’s not too hot.
• Goodie bags for those nearby. If you’re traveling with a baby, bring a gesture of goodwill for your fellow fliers. Put some ear plugs and candy in plastic baggies to pass around if your baby starts crying hysterically.

Driving

• Plan stops. If you’re driving for hours, plan a few stops along the way. This lets the family see new sights and burn off some energy. Pack recreational toys like a frisbee or ball so they have something to play outdoors.
• Use the toilet when you can. If your children are young, encourage them to use the potty whenever you stop. Even if they say they don’t need to, ask them to try. This will help prevent an unexpected stop as soon as you get back on the road.
• Bring a neck pillow. Adults often use these on a plane, but they’re great for the car, too. If space is a concern, look for an inflatable one. The kids can use them to keep their heads from bobbing while they sleep.