Planning on travelling with toddlers?

Grab your bags and plenty of wet wipes - a whirlwind journey filled with giggles, snacks and tantrums awaits! Travelling with toddlers can be daunting, but with a bit of forward planning it doesn’t need to be.

Work around your wee one

Plan your journey around their naps to maximise rest and minimise crankiness. Planning on going abroad? Destinations like the Cook Islands, Fiji and parts of Australia have short flight times and similar time zones to New Zealand making for minimal adjustments once you’re on the ground.

Distractions are your bestie

Snacks, snacks and more snacks can be your best friend, ditto screen time. If you’re unsure about whether you’ll be able to access in-flight or on the road data, download some faves on your phone or tablet prior to setting off.  Other distractions could include their favourite story books, activity books, and sticker books.

Prepare for the worst

This isn’t meant to sound ominous, but it pays to be prepared for a change in plan – a traffic jam, sickness, flight delay, cancellation or lost baggage. Pack an easy-to-access carry-on bag with the essentials: lots of nappies, a change of clothes (including for yourself), sunscreen and a sunhat if you’re headed somewhere warm, or extra layers and a woollen hat if you’re seeking cooler climates. If your trip involves a layover, keep in mind some airports (particularly in the tropics) are open-air so these items will come in handy when you can’t access checked luggage. A first aid kit with plasters and hand sanitiser is a good idea, too.

Book baby-friendly

Consider accommodation options that cater to young families. A self-contained, standalone holiday home makes an ideal choice due to its full amenities. Tell your accommodation provider that you’re travelling with a toddler, many can supply a highchair, pushchair, porta cot, or even just a few toys. Look into whether you may be able to hire equipment – some businesses even deliver straight to your accommodation and rental vehicles can be booked with a car seat fitted on arrival. 

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