Vacation season is here! The time has come to break out the bikinis, dust off the sand toys and head out on the road with your family. Traveling with toddlers can be manageable and even fun as long as you plan ahead. Before you load the car or board the plane look at the list below to make sure you haven’t forgotten any of the basics.
1. Sun block/Bug Spray
In the rush to pack all the right outfits many people leave home without the two most important body coverings- sun block and bug spray. Even if your excursion doesn’t include a trip to the beach, sun block is a must. All members of the family should be wearing a sun block of at least 30 SPF or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Bug spray is necessary in wooded areas or in areas known for ticks, but can also be useful in any outdoor situation.
2. First Aid Kit
Don’t empty the medicine cabinet into your toiletry bag, but do ensure you have some key items. Round up children’s acetaminophen, gas relief drops, anti-histamine, alcohol wipes and kid-sized bandages. Pack them in a separate baggie or mini make-up case so they’re easy to grab. These are items that the front desk may not have and you will not want to spend the first night of your vacation searching for a 24 hour drug store.
3. Pacifier
Whether the paci is your child’s best friend or an occasional companion now is not the time to leave it behind. Sleeping in a strange room or being over-tired from a busy day can lead to a stressful bedtime. Providing a way for your child to soothe himself can avert a night time crisis.
4. Favorite Blanket/Lovey
For a child a favorite object is like a cherished member of the family. Forget the “blankie” and you might as well turn the car around. Don’t only plan to pack it, leave yourself reminder notes around the house. This is the only object you cannot buy when you get there!
5. Bedtime Book
Toddlers can adapt to new situations more easily when some semblance of their everyday routine is maintained. If reading before bed is a night time ritual make sure you pack a of couple familiar books. Even if you don’t normally read together, now is a perfect time to start. Vacation days can be over-stimulating and reading is a great way to wind down.
Whether heading to the beach or the mountains with your family this summer, having the essentials will make any trip more relaxing.
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