Traveling with toddlers can be challenging. New sights and sounds can be overwhelming to a young child and vacation excitement can quickly turn into temper tantrums if you’re not prepared.
Here are 10 parent-practiced tips to help make traveling with toddlers fun and more manageable.
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Choose a family-friendly destination.
Skip the crowded tourist destinations and opt instead for a locale that is accustomed to having kids around. Some kid friendly destinations in Africa include Mauritius for children and toddlers, Namibia for teenagers, Tanzania for adult children, Botswana and South Africa for multi-generational family groups.
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Safety first!
Always make sure your child’s car seat is properly secured. Also, use a removable window shade to help block the sun.
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Pack entertainment.
Best bets for entertaining your child in the car and hotel room include favorite books, games and toys. This is a time when the smart devices certainly come in handy.
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Plan rest stops.
If you’re driving, break up the monotony by stopping every couple of hours (or more frequently if necessary). Kids need to stretch out after being cooped up in a car for a while. Consider bringing along a ball to kick or throw around during these breaks.
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Be flexible.
Set realistic expectations and let your child soak up the experience at his or her own pace. You might want to limit your activities to one a day. Otherwise, you could wind up with an over-stimulated toddler.
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Bring water and plenty of snacks
Fruit, granola bars, mini juice cartons and small boxes of cereal make for great, healthy snacks.
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Bring a beloved item.
A blankie or cuddly toy will help your toddler feel safe and secure. Be sure to have a replacement on hand, too. It will save you some heartache should the original get lost.
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Start and end your day early.
Kids are at their best in the morning, so plan accordingly.
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Stick to your routine.
Eating, napping and playing at the same time each day may be all your child needs to feel comfortable in a new environment.
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Take lots of pictures.
They’re only young once, so enjoy every moment!
READ ALSO: [9 Destinations To Add To Your Summer Bucket List]
