Traveling with Kids: How to Deal

Do you find traveling with kids to be daunting? Keep clicking for a list of helpful hints, essential items and fun games to keep everyone entertained.

PACKING TIPS

Once your kids are old enough to do so, allow them to pack their own toys. Limit the toys to what the bag will hold so they don’t go overboard.

My 4-year-old daughter loves her fuzzy backpack with wheels from APinkPrincess.com ($38). Packing her own toys makes her feel involved in the process and insures that her favorite toys will be with her on the trip.

Note: If you are bringing books, make sure most of them are paperbacks. You’d be shocked by how much weight hardcover books can add.

SNACKS, SNACKS, SNACKS

For kids of any age, snacks are essential for any trip. Having snacks on hand can work wonders for a restless child. It also prevents unnecessary stops in the car or expensive purchases at the airport.

Transporting snacks can be a challenge, especially if space is limited. I really like the Easy Lunch Boxes system ($13.95 for 4 containers and a cooler bag for $7.95). The containers stack and have three compartments (one large, two small). The plastic is BPA- and phthalate-free and safe for the dishwasher, freezer and microwave. Their Cooler Bag holds three containers so you can pack enough snacks or travel meals for the whole family.

If you don’t have time to pack snacks, Go Picnic makes a variety of Mighty Munch meals ($3.99) that are yummy and ready-to-eat.  The meals contain no trans fats, no high-fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors/colors. They require no heating or refrigeration so they are great for travel.

For water, I love the Vapur “Anti-Bottle” bottle ($8.95). When it has water in it, it stands like a bottle. When empty, it lays flat and can be folded or rolled to take up minimal space in your carry-on bag. It comes equipped with a carabiner for carrying and a space where you can write your name. BPA-free, freezable and top rack dishwasher safe. Available in pink, green, purple, blue and smoke.