Holiday Travel Tips: Surviving Travel with Small Kids

Traveling with little ones can be both exciting and challenging. With thoughtful preparation and the right tools, you can make the journey smoother, more enjoyable, and maybe even fun. No matter if you’re traveling by plane, train, boat, or car, Harbor has tips to help you navigate the chaos with a bit of humor, a lot of snacks, and a dash of realism.

Introduce the concept of your travel

Treat this like a TED Talk for toddlers. Before the big day, prepare your child by reading stories about traveling and talking about what’s to come. For example, “We’re going on a plane! There will be lots of people and we’ll have to sit really still for a few hours.” Familiarizing them with the adventure ahead can ease anxiety and build excitement.

Opt for early morning departures

Book an early morning departure, if possible. Not only will airports and train stations typically be less crowded, but you’re also more likely to leave on time. Plus, your little one may still be in that dreamy, just-woke-up stage that’s parenting gold. (Less traffic, fewer delays, and a higher likelihood of a quiet, nap-filled flight? Yes, please.) 

This applies to long car rides, too. Hit the road early and take advantage of their sleepiness! If you’re traveling by car with a baby, remember to plan for stops every 2–3 hours. Young children shouldn’t be confined to a car seat for too long, and frequent breaks give everyone a chance to stretch, reset, and savor a moment of quiet before hitting the road again.

Plan ahead for car seats

Whether you're flying or driving, a car seat is non-negotiable. Bring your own on the plane to keep your child safe and snug (and offer them a reliable nap spot). If you’ll be renting a car at your destination, be sure to reserve a car seat in advance. Planning ahead will save you from a logistical nightmare and ensure that your child has a safe, comfortable ride.

Feeding Under 1 year old on the go

If your child is under 1 year and still relying on breastmilk or formula for the majority of their nutrition, traveling can make this already complex job a little bit more complicated. If you are breastfeeding, be aware your baby may be distracted on the journey and prioritize protected time for nursing sessions. Many airports, malls, musuems, and amusement parks have protected spaces for feeding. These can be great for breastfeeding, pumping, or even the distracted bottle feeder. Review these handy tips from TSA to make sure you know your rights and how to safely bring breastmilk or formula on a plane. 

Your carry-on survival kit

Packing a child-friendly carry-on requires military precision. Here are some of our team’s tips:

  • There’s no such thing as too many snacks: Bring pouches, finger foods, and a treat for yourself.
  • SlumberpodCalm portable sound and white noise machine. The perfect white noise to nudge an overtired toddler into dreamland. 
  • Bring extra diapers and a change of clothes for everyone: Yes, you read that correctly. While you’ll likely know to bring spare clothing for your little one, you should be prepared for the possibility of needing to change your clothes, too!
  • Stock waterproof bags: For soiled clothes, just in case.
  • Keep medication on hand: It’s best to pack medication in your carry-on, rather than a checked bag.

Gear to make traveling easier

While getting to your destination can feel like the hardest part, it’s a good idea to stock up on travel-sized tools that will help your little one maintain a consistent routine:

  • Harbor Baby Monitor: Harbor’s monitor works without an internet connection, which means you can keep an eye on your little one anywhere.
  • SlumberPod: This portable blackout sleep tent is a gift from the sleep gods. It creates a dark, private sleeping space, even if your kiddo has to share a room with night owl relatives.
  • SlumberpodCalm Travel: This portable sound machine offers soothing white noise or lullabies to help your child (and you) drift off in unfamiliar surroundings.
  • SlumberCalm Sound Machine and Night Light: While slightly larger than the portable SlumberPodCalm, the SlumberCalm steps up the game with its built-in nightlight. This soft, adjustable glow is perfect for midnight diaper changes or adding a touch of comfort in unfamiliar settings. Coupled with soothing white noise and lullabies, it transforms any space into a serene sleep haven. Ideal for home or travel, it's the Swiss Army knife of bedtime gadgets. 
  • Compact Stroller: Find one that can fit in the overhead compartment of a plane and will save space in the car. If it folds up quickly and easily, even better.

Manage your expectations

Repeat after us: “This is not a vacation. It’s a trip.” You’re still parenting, just in a new location with different challenges (and fewer baby-proofed outlets). If things go off the rails, remember that it’s normal. Your kid may skip naps, refuse to sleep in the SlumberPod, or eat nothing but snacks for three days. Take a deep breath and know that if your holiday wreaks havoc on sleep and routines, the Harbor team is here to help you get back on track upon your return.

Traveling with kids can be messy, loud, and full of surprises—but it also gives you memories and moments that make it all worth it. Travel safely and remember that you’ve got this!