Make Life Easier When You’re Travelling With Toddlers

If you have travelled with toddlers before, you will agree that it can be stressful. You don’t know how it’s going to go or how they are going to react, and you are sure to spend a lot of your time hoping that no one has a tantrum. Simply, travelling with toddlers can be a daunting experience, but with some careful planning and preparation, it can also be a fun and rewarding adventure for both you and your little ones.

Portugal is a popular holiday destination for those with young children, as it is a family friendly country and there’s lots to do. So, you certainly won’t be the only ones visiting with toddlers. You can go to Portugal, knowing that you won’t struggle to find everything that you need, nor will you struggle to find supplies should you need them.

Of course, there are things that you can do to improve your holiday experience with a toddler. Below, we have listed some of our top tips to make life easier when you’re travelling with young children.

How to Make Travelling With Toddlers a Lot Easier

  1. Pack Smart – When packing for your trip, whether that’s a weekend away or a two week holiday, make sure to pack smart. Bring only what you need and avoid overpacking. Pack a small bag for each child with a change of clothes, snacks, and toys to keep them occupied during the journey. Don’t forget to bring any necessary medications and their favourite comfort items, such as a blanket or stuffed animal. If you travel with too much, you are just giving yourself more to look after and keep track of. You already have a toddler to keep an eye on, don’t give yourself a tonne of bags as well.
  2. Plan Your Journey – Before embarking on your journey, plan your route and schedule. Make sure to schedule plenty of time for breaks and rest stops along the way. This will give your little ones time to stretch their legs, use the bathroom, and burn off some energy. If you’re travelling by plane, check in early and make sure to request seats together. It’s always a good idea to plan in delays with a toddler, as you don’t want to be stuck at the airport with nothing to keep them entertained. Plus, everything takes a little bit longer with a toddler in tow.
  3. Bring Snacks – We can all agree that toddlers can be picky eaters, so bring plenty of snacks that they like. This is especially helpful for long car and plane journeys, but also if you are travelling abroad. Though most places in Portugal do cater to fussy eaters and picky eaters, there is no guarantee that your toddler will eat what’s put in front of them. If you have some snacks on hand, you don’t have to worry about them going hungry.
  4. Keep Them Entertained – Bring plenty of toys and activities to keep your toddler entertained during the journey, and things to keep them busy throughout the holiday. Colouring books, stickers and small toys are great options. You can also download their favourite TV shows or films on your phone or tablet, as a way to keep them occupied during a long flight or car ride. There is a lot of downtime on holiday, but having things to keep a toddler entertained can help to keep them out of trouble. After all, a bored toddler can be hard work.
  5. Stay Flexible – Travelling with toddlers can be unpredictable, so it’s important to stay flexible. Be prepared to change your plans or adjust your schedule if necessary. Toddlers can get tired or cranky, so be prepared to take a break or adjust your itinerary if needed. It’s a good idea to schedule in some downtime during your time away, especially if your toddler is likely to need a nap or time away from the hustle and bustle.
  6. Bring a Buggy – Bringing a buggy can make travelling with toddlers much easier. It will give your little ones a place to rest and nap, and make it easier to navigate busy airports or crowded streets. Toddlers are renowned for not wanting to walk long distances, and they’re slow when they do walk. Having a buggy will help you get from A to B quickly, without having to rely on little legs to keep up. Plus, it’s easier to keep your toddler safe and with you if they are in a buggy, as they can’t wander off.
  7. Stay Calm and Patient – Travelling with toddlers can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm and patient. Toddlers can sense when their parents are stressed, which can make them more anxious and difficult to manage. Take deep breaths and try to stay calm, even if things don’t go according to plan. Remember, you are on holiday and it’s supposed to be a fun, enjoyable and relaxing experience.

Travelling with toddlers requires careful planning and preparation, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your little ones. By packing smart, planning your journey, bringing snacks and toys, staying flexible, bringing a buggy, and staying calm and patient, you can make your next family holiday to Portugal a success. Though you might have to plan further in advance and do a little bit more research into the area that you’re visiting, Portugal is a fantastic holiday destination for families. There are beaches, parks, playgrounds, attractions and swimming pools for your toddler to enjoy.

Leave a comment