Traveling with children is different from traveling alone or with other adults. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for fun trips with your children. 

Before you go: 

Talk about the trip. Start with a conversation about where you're going, why, who you’ll see, and what you hope to experience. Explain how you'll travel — car, plane or train — to help build excitement and ease anxiety. 

Identify potential challenges. Prepare your children for differences in routines or environments. If you're traveling during hot weather or hiking through nature, discuss safety concerns like drinking water, staying on the trail, and avoiding unfamiliar plants. The goal is to build awareness, not anxiety. 

Set behavior expectations. Remind children how to behave in different settings: visiting grandparents, eating in restaurants, or sitting next to a sibling. Simple reminders like, “We keep our hands to ourselves,” or “We don’t ask for candy at the store,” work for all ages. Even adults use this — like telling yourself you’re not going to buy anything not on your list. Speaking expectations out loud helps build self-control. 

Get kids involved in packing. Let kids help create a short, simple packing list. It teaches organization and builds excitement. Be patient — they’ll need help. 

Entertainment options. Travel is a great time to connect. Start with conversation, then move to games: travel bingo, coloring books, 20 questions, cards, karaoke. Screens are fine, but books, puzzles and word searches are great alternatives. 

Plan for delays. Travel with kids typically takes longer. Add 30 to 45 minutes for every 3 hours on the road. Plan pit stops so kids can move, snack and use the bathroom. While this can add time to your travels, it makes for happier travelers. 

During your trip: 

Stick to routines. Try to maintain regular meal, nap and bedtime schedules. It may take creativity, but it is worth the effort. 

Let kids take the lead. Invite your children to make decisions: “Which trail should we take?” or “What do you want to see first?” This builds confidence and keeps them engaged. 

Safety. Carry a few basics — water, snacks, flashlight and a small first-aid kit. 

Expect meltdowns. They happen, no matter how prepared you are. Expecting a few tough moments helps you stay calm and respond with patience. 

After your trip: 

Reflect together. Ask your family: What did you love most? Least? What are you glad we did? What would you do again? What will you remember most? These moments build connection and help shape future trips. 

Source: David Weisenhorn, Ph.D.; Specialist for Parenting and Child Development 

---

FCS