Taking a 2 year old on a trip may be an adventure in itself, and frankly speaking, it is! Toddlers are needy and energetic, so long journeys come at a slight inconvenience. Your trip can be stress free with proper planning. It can be the difference between making little things like packing smart when you think of it, routines, and making sure your little one is comfortable when you are flying with a toddler or driving a long distance with children.
Instead of fearing the visit, it is a chance to make your child some sweet memories. Travelling with the family, of course, is not about getting to the destination, but also about creating moments during the trip.
Table of Contents
Plan Around the Schedule of Your Toddler
The trick with traveling with a 2 year old is to be as close to the routine of the baby as possible. Toddlers are structured, and they may become cranky when they are not having a nap or meals. Attempt to book flights or do road trips during napping or bedtime.
In this manner, your child will be able to sleep half of the journey, and it will be easy for all. Flights at the beginning of the day or the end of the day are normally effective. Allow your toddler to expend his energy before the trip begins. At the airport or rest stop, a bit of running, walking, or playing will help prevent restlessness in the future.
Pack Smart and Light
Taking a toddler comes like a big burden when packing, however, the secret lies in the fact that it ought not to be difficult. Nothing more: diapers, wipes, a change of clothing, snacks, and one comfort object, e.g., a stuffed animal or blanket.
A small backpack or a travel organizer would be the most effective in storing snacks, wipes, and toys in a very convenient way. These things can save the day in case your toddler requires something, and you can easily access them.
Keep Your Toddler Comfortable
Travelling with a 2-year-old can or cannot be made comfortable. Wear soft, easy-to-wear clothes that can be changed easily in case of spills or accidents. Do not forget about a stroller or baby carrier. A stroller would be ideal in the airports or during long walks, whereas a carrier would be suitable in the crowded areas or areas where strollers are prohibited.
Snacks and Drinks Are a Must
A toddler is no happier than when hungry or thirsty. Cook baby meals and healthy food that would not leave a massive mess, including fruits, cheese sticks, or yogurt melts. A small bottle of water or a sippy cup is also required to keep them hydrated. When flying, feed your toddler something to chew or even a lollipop during takeoff and landing that will assist with the ear pressure.
Keep your Toddler Amused
Bring a set of small toys and activities that do not require much noise, like a set of coloring books, stickers, puzzles, or a tablet with their favorite shows.
Present them with something new, like a toy or a book, and this will hold them longer. There are also basic games, like I Spy, and songs to sing together. A play tray or cleaning mat helps keep snack time and playtime less messy. And in case you are traveling with a second adult, put off the amusements of your toddler so you can both get a break.
Be Ready for Diaper Changes
In case your toddler is not trained in potty, carry enough diapers or pull-ups with wipes. Plane trips are more comfortable using pull-ups as changing tables are small. Find family restrooms at airports or rest stops that are more spacious and offer more privacy. If your child is potty trained, remind your child to visit the bathroom before the flights or long distance drives.
Stay Calm and Flexible
Bringing toddlers on a trip is no different, it can be unpredictable, with tantrums, tears, or an abrupt mood change all included. The only thing that you can do best is to remain calm and flexible.
There is no reason to worry about what someone will think of you when your toddler cries, the majority of the world can relate. Have breaks, reassure the child, and be positive. Keep in mind that they are only transient moments, and any journey with your small one brings some memories that you will always have with you.
Board and Settle Strategically
When flying with a 2-year-old, boarding smart makes things much easier. In case your airline has family boarding or priority boarding, then board it. This will provide you with time and space to settle on the plane with your toddler, as well as things such as a car seat or stroller.
When you are having a companion in your journey, divide the labor, and one person can be with the toddler and the other on the seat or bags.
Other parents prefer to board early to get ample time, whereas some board towards the end so that their toddler does not sit too long. Select the best depending on the mood of your child that day.
Keep a Positive Mindset
Taking toddlers on a trip is not necessarily an easy thing to do, yet it depends on your attitude. Babies are able to detect stress, and therefore, it is better to remain calm and positive to make the trip easier.
Be flexible with your plans. When you are dealing with a cranky toddler, a fast stroll, a change of pace, or even something to distract him/her will help.
And do not be too concerned with what people will say to you should your child cry or misbehave. Be kind to yourself, too.
Assure Your Toddler’s Safety
Toddlers are fond of routines, and the maintenance of their routines on the trip makes them feel secure. Small routines provide comfort even in a hotel room or an airplane. Just talking to your toddler prior to the trip also helps.
Additional Tips for Flying with a 2-Year-Old
The following are some easy traveling guidelines when selecting to fly with a two-year-old child:
- Use Early Boarding – Take advantage of family or early boarding in order to settle with no stress.
- Assistance in Ear Pressure – Provide your toddler with something that he or she can chew, drink, or suck during takeoff and landing so that the air in his/her ear does not hurt.
- Plan Fun Activities – Keep them occupied with small toys, coloring books, and puzzles.
- Keep Clothes Handy – Have easy access to comfortable clothes and shoes in case there is a change of heart.
- Stretch and Move – If the crew permits, take your child up and down the aisle so that he or she can stretch and use up some energy.
These are easy air traveling tips with toddlers, which may assist in making traveling with your two year old children easier and less tense.
Conclusion
Toddlers will never make traveling with them perfect. Snacks will be spilled, naps will be skipped, and possibly, the tantrums will be thrown. But all that is a part of the trip. It is the positive attitude that is significant, one should remain calm and remember to look at the small wins. It might be a giggle between the playing of I Spy in the car or a cozy nap on the plane.
When you are smart, can be very patient, and have a sense of humor, a trip with your 2 year old can be one of your favorite experiences with your family. These are the adventures you will reminisce over in the future, the experiences you will cherish, and these are the little things that your toddler will take with him or her when he grows up.