Traveling with kids is not always easy. My kids are teenagers now, and though they have always traveled with us, it has not always been a bowl of cherries.
My oldest is almost eighteen, and took her first long-distance train ride at about six months and flew for the first time at about a year. She's traveled quite a bit since then.
My youngest is almost fifteen, and she went on a missions trip to El Paso last year, and another one this year, to Ireland!
She ended up going to Ireland before I did, but to a different area. I went to County Wicklow Ireland and to Dublin where I got to taste a Guinness Draught at the Guinness Storehouse.
She went to the northern part of the country, and took some pretty fabulous photos.
My point is that even though my kids traveled a lot when they were younger, they still had their meltdowns. They still got bored.
And most of the time, when they were cranky, it was because I was not prepared with something for them to do.
Sure, we have all the handheld devices that will capture their interest for a while, but they need to be doing something active, and these ideas are just that!
Secrets to Traveling with Kids
Way back when this article was first written, things we a little different. Now, kids have handheld gaming devices, iPods, phones, and all kinds of other things to do.
But too much screen time is not good for kids. Let's face it, it's not food for adults, either!
For one thing, it causes trouble with sleep - the last thing you want to have to deal with once you get to your destination and are tired from traveling.
These are tried and true ideas that will keep your kids busy without screen time!
If you aren't a DIY kind of mom (I get it- no judging at all!) you might want to pick up this cool portable travel tray with storage for art supplies and snacks.
This craft tray for traveling collapses into a little carrying case. It's super cute!
This scavenger hunt card game is fun for kids 7 and up. My kids loved Wixi Stix, too. We went to a restaurant that handed them out to kids and bought them after that. They are great for fidgety kids!
By the way, my FREE packing printables will help you remember everything, too! Enjoy your vacation!
Secrets to Traveling with Kids
Traveling with kids can be exhausting when they are cranky and bored. We've gathered inexpensive ideas for you to put together to keep those minds and hands busy. Let us know which one worked best for you!
Sewing cards are a great way to get little ones started on the fundamentals of needlework. These are also great for traveling. Keep them stored in a box or plastic zipper bag.
Keeping toddlers entertained while traveling can sometimes be difficult. That is why preparing a travel activity box is such a great idea.
Every parent knows that hours on end in the back seat of the car can make restless children pretty cranky. Packing things strategically to keep kids happy during the trip—and after you’ve arrived—doesn’t have to be difficult.
These match ups are really cute. Your littles will be learning and not even know it!
This travel binder is brilliant. My kids would have loved this.
This one is specifically for 1 to 3 year olds. Toiletry bags take the stage. I never would have thought of that!
This one has a few really cute ideas with free printables.
This Tic Tac Toe is super cute and has full instructions.
These would be super cute to give to friends or family you're visiting, or even the registration desk at a hotel! The kids stay occupied in the car and you have a sweet present for when you arrive.
DIY Mr. Potato Head Play Mat for Quiet Books and Travel with Kids
Who doesn't love Mr. Potato Head? This is cute for all ages.
A matching game where the kids are learning along the way!
DIY Painted Rock Tic-Tac-Toe Travel Game for On-The-Go Fun!
This is adorable for when you stop for potty breaks and to get the wiggles out.
An easy and so inexpensive craft that takes up no weight in a backpack!
A really cute game with endless questions parents don't have to answer!
3 Disney Road Trip Games: FREE Printable Activities For The Car Ride
These were designed for a trip to Disney, but any Disney loving kids would enjoy it on any road trip!
5 really cute ideas using items you probably already have. Great for keeping little ones busy in restaurants, too.
I thought this idea for camping activities looked like fun, too.
My friend April at AprilGoLightly had a great idea. How about having a matching outfit with your daughter and saving it just for vacation?
Tips That Help These Ideas Work
Only pull out the bag, tray, or box when you are taking a trip. This way the kids will be excited about it again.
It might be difficult at first if they really love it, but letting them have it all the time will take away the magic!
And if you're looking for ideas for adults who fly a lot, check out this post with 5 Tips for Frequent Flyers.
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Happy travels!
Jackie
Thanks for including my post in your list! I have updated the photos since they weren't showing up when you posted this.
Kelly Stilwell
Thank you, Jackie!
Anna
Thanks so much for including ours 🙂
Kelly
Thank you for sharing it, Anna!