5 Tips for Travelling with a Toddler (Without Losing Your Sanity!)

Travelling with a toddler can be both magical and, let’s be honest, a little chaotic. From airport meltdowns to tiny legs that never stop moving, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with a few tried-and-tested tips, you can make the journey smoother, more enjoyable, and maybe even a little stress-free!

Here are my top 5 tips for families travelling with little ones.

Tip 1: Pack Smart, Pack Light (But Don’t Forget the Essentials!)

Packing for a toddler is a balancing act between “just enough” and “what if emergencies happen?”

• Bring favourite snacks, comfort toys, and a change of clothes for both toddler and parent.
• Use packing cubes or small bags to stay organised and easily find items when needed.
• Keep a “toddler emergency kit” handy in your hand luggage with nappies, wipes, a spare top, and any must-have comfort items.
• I highly recommend a Solar Buddies suncream applicator - my two year old loves to "help" apply her sun cream with this genius little item!

Tip 2: Plan Around Their Routine

Toddlers thrive on routine, so planning around nap times and usual meal times can make a huge difference.

• Schedule flights, trains, or long drives around their sleep patterns where possible.
• Build in extra time for toilet stops, stretching legs, and small adventures along the way.
• Remember, a well-rested toddler = happier parent AND happier child.

Tip 3: Keep Hands Free for Smooth Travel

One of the trickiest parts of travelling with a toddler is juggling all the gear—bags, tickets, snacks, and that never-ending curiosity!

• Consider checking in your stroller before security to avoid being weighed down. Nothing is worse than trying to navigate an airport with both a wriggly toddler and a pushchair.
• Encourage your toddler to walk where safe—it’s a great way to burn off energy before boarding.
• For smaller children, a baby carrier is invaluable for boarding and disembarking. It keeps your hands free and both of you more comfortable.
• Use backpacks or crossbody bags for your essentials, so you can move easily, every thing is in easy reach and stay organised.

Tip 4: Choose Toddler-Friendly Accommodation & Destinations

Picking the right accommodation and destination can make or break a toddler holiday.

• Look for family-friendly hotels, self-catering cottages, or resorts with play areas, cots, and facilities for young children.
• Think about destinations that are manageable with toddlers—Cornwall, the Lake District, Devon, or a short-haul flight to sunny Spain or Portugal.
• Check reviews from other families to see if the property truly caters to little ones.

Tip 5: Keep Calm, Flexible, and Embrace the Adventure (and Chaos!)

Even the best-laid plans can change—toddlers have their own ideas!

• Take breaks and adjust plans to match your child’s energy levels.
• Embrace little surprises—sometimes unplanned moments become the most memorable.
• Have the odd early night, as tempting as it may be because you're on holiday to capture everything your resort or destination as to offer, sometimes toddlers just need that downtime in the room!
• Staying calm and positive helps your toddler feel secure and can turn potentially stressful moments into fun adventures.
• Take all the photos - and from mum to mum, don't forget to get some of yourself with your toddler! (I'm so guilty of having barely any photos with my little girl!)

Travelling with a toddler doesn’t have to be stressful—it can be the start of a lifetime of family adventures! With the right preparation and a few clever tricks, you can enjoy magical moments every step of the way. If you’d like help planning a stress-free, unforgettable trip for your family, let’s chat and make it happen!