20 Great Travel Hacks With Kids

Some of our best childhood memories are from the times we traveled with our parents. Better still, traveling young can spark a greater interest in the world around or forge a little historian in the making. 

Still, nobody said traveling with kids was easy. There’s a lot to consider in the lead-up to the big day. But, with these 20 travel hacks in hand, you’re setting yourself up for some smooth sails. 

Compare Airbnbs vs. Hotels

Did you know the price between an Airbnb and a hotel can be markedly different in the same city? Also, traditional accommodations on Booking.com may be cheaper, yet again. Once you have your dates in mind, check all your options for accommodations. 

With the whole family in tow, you might like the idea of an Airbnb with your own kitchen, washer and dryer, and possibly even a pool or other fun features. But, then again, a nice hotel with a pool may be more affordable in that particular city at that particular time of year, as well. 

For example, a full-blown resort or theme park hotel is often the way to go. With their travel packages, you can usually score a real deal. But, don’t overlook the possibility of staying in a nearby Airbnb with a pool and Ubering back and forth, as well. 

Travel at Night

If you’re driving (and have had the proper amount of rest), see if you can travel at night. Tucking your tykes into their cozy car seats for a few hours at night is far more achievable than the hustle and bustle of the day. 

Put them in their favorite pajamas, position all the pillows and blankets around them, and put something soothing on the sound system. This hack isn’t as easy to pull off if you’re flying. But, if this is a nice road trip, this tip could make the whole excursion a whole lot easier.  

Leave Yourself Plenty of Time

Ever since you had kids, do you feel like you’re always running behind? Makes sense. You have a lot to contend with. 

When you’re traveling, you always want to look at things as if you need to be there 15 – 30 minutes in advance. Sitting in the waiting area for 30 minutes longer than necessary is far better than sitting around for the next few hours because you missed your flight. 

Prepare a Checklist

Sometimes, the ramp-up to a trip is (almost) as much fun as the trip itself. When you’re travel planning, always start with a checklist. 

Whether you’d like to do this the good ol’ fashioned way with paper and pen or use the Notes app on your phone, this will help you make sure nothing is left behind.