road trips and air travel with the family don’t have to feel impossible. these tips will bring you more joy – and less stress
Air travel, road trips, parties, family visits. We always try to cram them all into the few weeks of holiday vacation. And with kids? You’ll have to pack a lot more stuff – as well as a carry-on full of patience. But a few easy and affordable solutions, from packing cubes to craft breaks, will help this truly feel like the most wonderful time of the year.
rolling luggage for everyone
It’s a total game changer when your kids become old enough to pull their own baggage through the airport. Go for a roller design that’s bright and recognizable so there’s little chance of misplacing it.
pack toys in toiletry cases
Never lose a Lego on the way to Grandma’s again! Tiny cars, trains, figures, and all their teensy accessories pack beautifully into a toiletry case with zippered partitions. A hanging, roll-up jewelry holder is also a great way to keep toys organized and in sight.
prepare ready-set-go outfits with packing cubes
Keep track of your children’s clothes by bundling individual outfits (plus socks and underwear) into their own packing cubes. Try color coding them, choosing a hue for each person in your household. Each day you’re away, just grab a “capsule” and get everyone going in a flash. This also provides extra support for little ones who are still learning to dress themselves.
pro tip:
Packing cubes are also great for keeping books, toys, and other travel essentials on hand during long road trips.
get creative with long-distance snacking
Our favorite mobile hack: Fill a lidded, divided container with small amounts of little snacks. There’s a great selection of snack containers out there, or even try a craft organizer or tackle box. If you’re on a long car trip, try matching the snack with different areas you’re driving through, such as dried cherries in Washington, and potato sticks in Idaho.
encourage relaxation and naps
A good rest means a happier arrival at your destination – for everyone. Bring along something that makes it easier for the littles to get comfy: a cute stuffy that’s also a blanket or a special neck pillow they’ll happily tote along. Dab a little lavender oil on their wrists and play some soft sleepy music in their headphones. Nighty night!
switch it up with a craft break
When they’ve been glued to their tablet for far too long already, it’s a smart idea to break out a travel-friendly art or craft kit. No glue or glitter here—just fun, mess-free projects to keep their minds and hands busy. Bonus: Your kids can gift their creations to friends and family when you arrive at your destination.