Parenting: Children
Parents' Essential Packing Guide
Whether traveling by car, airplane, train, boat or any other form of communal transportation, it's important to carry a few essentials that are easily accessible at all times. This will make the travel experience more enjoyable for everyone.
These must-have items will vary with the age of the child. But, in
general, the following should be kept close at hand: food, drink, wet
wipes, changes of clothes, distractions (games, toys, etc.) and lots of
plastic bags.
Everything you need is going to require a generous piece of luggage. So much for being free of the ubiquitous diaper bag!
Babies and Toddlers
For those traveling with babies and toddlers, the diaper bag is still a
staple. It should be kept well stocked with finger foods, such as graham
crackers, Cheerios, fish crackers and possibly some cut-up fruit. Also,
bring two to four jars of baby food and a spoon. For those who still
require it, it's important to have a small container with enough formula
for a day's worth of bottles. Bring two bottles – one for the formula and
one for water or juice – a bottle brush, nipple brush and a dish soap
sample to wash aforementioned bottles in public restrooms. For those who
are weaned to cups, bring two of those instead of the bottles.
Babies also require a day's worth of diapers. Bring twice as many as you think you need, as well as a full travel pack of diaper wipes, a changing pad, diaper cream and plastic bags for especially full diapers or soiled clothing. Don't forget a full change of clothes – two, if you have room.
A few colorful toys – rattles, stuffed animals, teethers, etc. – and a few favorite books should keep babies happy during their awake time. Toddlers may need a few more options. Pick out some of their favorite small toys and rotate often.
Preschoolers
Preschoolers are even more of a challenge to keep entertained because
they prefer more interaction with others. That's where siblings come in
handy – sometimes. Other times it's better to set each child up with
their own things, such as action figures, building toys or a magnetic
drawing board. Again, rotate these items often.
Preschoolers who are potty trained, or are learning to be, will need three
to four changes of clothes – especially pants and underwear – and several
plastic bags for soiled clothes. Those who are not will need the same
items as babies and toddlers (see above).
Pack snack items that are easy to eat on the go. Good choices include chips, pretzels, various crackers, dry cereal, fruit snacks and granola bars. To avoid those "I'm thirsty," whines, pack plenty to drink, as many juice boxes or pouches that will fit. And diapers or not, remember to bring wet wipes or moist towelettes to clean up the sticky fingers and messy faces, as well as plastic bags for trash.
Older Children
Kids who are 6 and up will also appreciate snacks and drinks, though
they do not require much else. It's probably a good idea to have at
least one change of clothes handy for kids 6 to 10 years old in case of
spills or accidents.
Older kids can entertain themselves with hand-held electronic or video games, books, portable CD players and drawing materials, including paper, crayons, markers, pens and pencils. Car games are also great fun if the traveling child is interested in playing along.
Finally, don't forget those comfort items. Some kids can't get to sleep without their binky, teddy, blankie or nightlight.
Happy packing!
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