How to Travel With Children: 20 Practical Tips That Actually Work

Updated 8th January 2026:

Travelling with children brings a mix of joy, unpredictability, and discovery. Over the years I have travelled with children and also spoken with many parents, and the same truth keeps coming up. Trips become far easier when you use simple, realistic strategies that work in the real world. While exploring new places together is incredibly rewarding, little ones can make the journey more complicated especially when routines change or tiredness kicks in.

Travelling with children does not need to be overwhelming. A few thoughtful adjustments can completely transform the experience. With the right mindset and preparation, family travel becomes calmer, smoother, and far more enjoyable for everyone involved.

No more meltdowns at the gate and no more scrambling for snacks at the worst possible moment.

Here are the practical tips parents always tell me they wish they knew earlier. They are simple and effective and they work whether you are taking a short domestic hop or a long haul international adventure.

Here’s What We Will Cover

• The top 20 practical tips that make travelling with children easier, calmer, and more enjoyable
• How to plan, pack, and manage routines so family trips run more smoothly
• Real world safety strategies parents rely on, including airports, flights, crowded places, and theme parks
• How to handle flights with children, from seat selection and aircraft types to keeping kids calm and comfortable in the air
• Airlines offering additional support for neurodiverse children, including autism friendly programs and sensory tools
• Helpful, practical tips for breastfeeding comfortably on a plane
• Answers to the most common questions parents ask about travelling with children
• Useful resources and related reading to help you plan with confidence

Top 20 Tips for Travelling With Children

Whether you are flying, driving, or exploring overseas, these practical parent approved strategies help keep children comfortable, settled, happy, and entertained so the journey feels smoother from start to finish.

1. Plan Ahead

Planning is your best friend when travelling with children. It sets the tone for the entire trip. Start by researching your destination so you know which areas are family friendly, which attractions are suitable for different ages, and which hotels are actually designed for kids rather than just marketing themselves as such.

Create a loose itinerary that includes rest stops, meal breaks, nap windows, and short bursts of fun to break up long stretches of travel. Parents often tell me that the best trips are the ones with structure but not pressure. Build in some wiggle room so no one feels rushed or overwhelmed.

2. Pack Wisely

Packing for children is a long game and preparation makes everything easier. Make a checklist with essentials like wipes, extra clothes, snacks, medications, refillable water bottles, baby formula, comfort items, and anything that keeps your little ones settled.

Parents always mention that the downfall of many trips is forgetting small items like rubbish bags, tissues, bandaids, or a favourite soft toy. A simple first aid kit is worth its weight in gold.

If you know you will need extra luggage, pre purchase it online before arriving at the airport. Last minute excess baggage charges are brutal and completely avoidable.

3. Travel During Off-Peak Times

Travelling during quieter periods can completely change the experience for families. Airports are calmer, queues are shorter, and staff have more time to assist. Early morning and late evening flights are often smoother for young children because the cabin environment is quieter and more relaxed.

Avoid standby lists at all costs. They create unnecessary stress and increase the chance of being seated separately. Families consistently say that pre selecting seats is one of the best decisions they make. If you are flying airlines like Qantas, you may be able to take advantage of seat release windows like the T80 rule to secure better seating.

Some cabins are brilliant for children. Others are not. Look up your aircraft seating configuration before booking. It can save you a huge headache.

Passengers are not obliged to give up their seats to other travellers and seat squatting or poaching are generally frowned upon.

4. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations

The right accommodation makes everything easier. Look for hotels or rentals that offer family friendly amenities like pools, children play areas, on site dining, kitchenettes, or laundry facilities. A hotel that understands families can take a lot of pressure off parents.

Consider the climate too. Many affordable destinations in South East Asia, for example, have monsoon seasons with heavy rainfall. Outdoor activities become limited and children can get restless if stuck indoors. Check weather patterns before booking so the trip aligns with what your family actually enjoys.

5. Keep Snacks Handy

Every parent knows that hunger is the fastest path to a meltdown. Snacks are a lifesaver. Pack items that do not spoil easily or make a mess such as crackers, muesli bars, fruit slices, or rice cakes. Keep them in an easy access pouch so you can pull them out quickly during delays, long queues, or the classic aircraft tarmac wait.

A hungry child can turn quickly. A well fed child settles easily. Snacks truly are the peacekeepers of family travel.

6. Entertainment is Key

Long flights or drives can feel endless for children. Entertainment can make or break the entire journey. Load a tablet with their favourite shows, movies, or games. Bring colouring books, small puzzles, stickers, or a simple craft pack. Parents often swear by having one little surprise item tucked away. Something new, small, unwrapped mid journey can buy twenty minutes of calm when you need it most.

A variety of options keeps children interested and reduces restlessness. Think of entertainment as your travel toolkit. When one thing stops working, you have the next ready to go.

7. Dress Comfortably

Comfort is everything when travelling with children. Choose soft, easy to layer clothing that allows kids to move, nap, stretch, and stay comfortable through different temperatures. Avoid outfits with too many buttons or complicated fastenings. You do not want to wrestle with tricky clothing during a rushed bathroom break or airport security.

Layers are perfect for planes where cabins can shift from warm to chilly quickly. Comfortable clothing reduces fussiness and keeps children settled for longer stretches.

8. Be Mindful of Time Zones

If your trip crosses time zones, children can take a while to adjust. A slow transition helps. A few days before departure, gently shift their bedtime or nap time in small increments. Once you arrive, move everyone onto the local schedule as soon as possible.

Parents often mention that sunlight exposure, consistent meal times, and calming bedtime routines help children adapt much faster. Keep the first day or two light and flexible so everyone has time to settle in.

9. Embrace the Power of Technology

Technology can be a lifesaver on family trips. Use apps to find parks, restrooms, family friendly dining, playgrounds, and attractions. Location trackers like AirTag or child friendly GPS apps offer extra peace of mind in busy places like theme parks or airports. I can’t even imagine the stress of losing a child in a foreign country.

Many parents I speak to say that tech is not just entertainment. It is organisation, safety, and sanity all in one. When used wisely, it makes travelling genuinely easier for everyone.

10. Safety First

Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure children are secured correctly in car seats or boosters based on their age and size. If you are renting a car overseas, check safety laws before arriving so you are compliant and prepared.

In crowded areas such as markets, public transport, festivals, or tourist hotspots, consider tools that keep children close like wrist straps or identifiable accessories. Parents often say that preparing safety plans ahead of time helps everyone feel calmer and more confident during busy travel moments.

Mini Safety Tips for Extra Peace of Mind

Create a simple meeting spot
Choose one clear, easy to find location your family can return to if anyone gets separated. This might be a large sign, a café, a landmark, or even a certain gate number at the airport.

Take a quick photo of your child each morning
It helps in the extremely rare event you need to describe what they are wearing. It also keeps your mind at ease if you are visiting crowded places.

Show your child what airport or hotel staff uniforms look like
Teach them that if they need help, these are the people to approach. This is especially useful in big terminals where children might feel overwhelmed.

Keep an ID card or contact detail tag in their pocket
A simple laminated card with your name and mobile number works wonders.

These small steps take only a few minutes but offer enormous reassurance for both children and adults. Parents who travel often say that safety plans are one of the most valuable tools they use.

Additional Safety Tips for Busy Places, Flights, and Theme Parks

Teach children to stop and stay put if they feel lost
Wandering children become harder to locate. Staying still helps adults find them much faster.

Use matching coloured hats or shirts on busy days
This makes it easier to spot your group instantly in crowds. Many parents use bright yellow or blue for visibility.

Practice a simple “hand on the pram or bag” rule
When walking through airports or crossing streets, this keeps children close without feeling restrictive.

Point out safe zones as you move through airports
These can include help desks, information counters, family restrooms, and departure gate seating areas.

Use a wearable tracker if travelling through large venues
AirTags placed in shoes or clipped inside pockets offer peace of mind. Many families say this small investment makes a big difference.

Teach children to respond to their name even in noisy places
Airports can be loud. Practising this helps them recognise your voice when the environment is busy.

Agree on a simple hand signal or phrase
Useful when you cannot speak because of noise, queues, or distance. It helps communicate quickly without shouting.

Remind children about not speaking to strangers unless a safe adult is present
This is especially important in unfamiliar surroundings like stations or markets.

Do a quick “crowd plan” before major attractions
For places like Disneyland, Singapore Zoo, Universal Studios, or big museums, explain where everyone will go if you get separated.

Dress children in shoes they can run safely in
This prevents slips or falls during busy transitions or long walks through terminals.

11. Give Kids a Role

Children behave better when they feel involved. Give them a simple job that matches their age. It might be learning how to pack light and carrying their small backpack, choosing a snack, ticking items off a checklist, or keeping track of a favourite toy. These tiny responsibilities make kids feel capable and included.

Many parents say this trick reduces resistance when moving through airports or transitioning between activities. Children feel like part of the team rather than passengers being dragged along.

12. Be Patient and Flexible

Even the best laid plans can shift quickly when children are involved. Flights get delayed. Meals run late. Kids get tired at the wrong time. Staying patient makes every situation easier.

Parents often say that children respond more to your energy than to the problem itself. If you stay calm, they usually settle faster. Treat delays as pauses not disasters. A flexible mindset transforms stress into manageable moments.

My classic mindset lesson applies here: control what you can, adapt to what you cannot.

13. Research Child-Friendly Activities

A good itinerary keeps children excited. Look for places that allow them to move, explore, and learn. Family friendly activities include aquariums, zoos, science centres, botanical gardens, museums with interactive exhibits, water parks, and playgrounds.

Some airport lounges also offer incredible children zones. The Air New Zeland Koru Lounge in Auckland and the Turkish Business Lounge in Istanbul are perfect examples. Having a safe space to decompress makes long travel days much smoother.

14. Create Travel Journals

A travel journal is a beautiful way to keep children engaged and reflective. Pack a notebook and some colouring pencils so they can draw what they see, stick tickets inside, or write a few words about their day.

Parents love this activity because it keeps little ones occupied during quiet moments and creates a keepsake you can revisit for years to come. These journals often become treasured memories of family adventures.

15. Take Breaks

Children need movement. Long stretches of sitting lead to frustration and fidgeting. Plan regular breaks whether you are driving, flying, or exploring a new city. Even five minutes of stretching or walking can reset a child completely.

Airports often have play areas that allow kids to burn off energy in a safe space. Parents consistently say that breaks are the key to avoiding meltdowns when travelling.

16. Involve Kids in Food Choices

Travelling can disrupt routines and make picky eating even pickier. Offering children a choice helps them feel in control. Show them a small selection, let them pick one, and involve them in deciding snacks or meals.

Exploring local cuisine can be fun too. Many parents say that when children choose their own food, they are far more likely to try something new.

17. Teach Cultural Respect

Travelling is an ideal way for children to learn about different people, traditions, and customs. Explain simple cultural norms before you go, especially if you are visiting a place with unique etiquette.

Encourage children to ask respectful questions, try new foods, and observe how locals interact. Parents often say this creates a sense of curiosity and empathy that stays with children for life.

18. Document the Journey

Photos and videos are the quickest way to capture memories. Encourage children to take their own photos with a disposable camera or your phone. You will be surprised how they see the world differently.
Parents love this because it becomes a fun activity and gives them insight into what stood out to their children. These little snapshots often become the most meaningful parts of the trip.

19. Maintain a Routine

Routines give children comfort, especially when they are tired or overstimulated. Try to keep their bedtime and meal times as close to normal as possible. Even a loose version of their home routine makes a big difference.

Parents say that routine is the anchor that keeps travel days predictable. It helps children settle at night and bounce back faster the next day.

20. Stay Positive and Have Fun

Travelling with children is not always easy, but it is always memorable. Some moments will be chaotic. Others will make your heart burst with joy. Your attitude shapes the entire experience.

Children pick up on your tone more than your words. If you stay positive and calm, they feel safe and settled. Enjoy the moments, even the imperfect ones. They are often the stories you tell for years.

How to Handle Children on Flights Without Stress

Flying with children can feel intimidating, especially on long haul routes. Cabins are busy, space is limited, and the routine your child knows suddenly disappears. With the right strategies, flights become far calmer and much more manageable for both children and adults.

Below are proven tips that parents often say help create a smooth in flight experience.

1. Book Seats Wisely:

Seat selection can make a massive difference. Where possible, choose seats that give your family the space and configuration you need.

Bulkhead or bassinet seats
Ideal for infants. Extra leg room helps with settling, stretching, and storing bags.

Rows with easy aisle access
Handy for toilet runs, stretching, and quick movement.

Aircraft with family friendly seating layouts
Some cabins are simply better for children. For example:

• Emirates 777 in business class has a 2 3 2 layout which is perfect for families. Check your seatmap because these are slowly being phased out.
• Emirates A380 business class is more private and can feel isolating
• Singapore Airlines A350-900 has centre seats where the divider drops completely
• Air New Zealands 777-300ER and their Skycouch are brilliant for little ones
• Air New Zealand skynest (from 2025) offers bunk bed style rest areas in economy
• Sichuan Airlines A350 Panda theme liveries adds a fun novelty for children

Some airlines also have age restrictions for premium cabins. For example, Zipair Business does not allow children under six.

2. Bring Entertainment:

Children need stimulation, especially when confined for hours. Pack a mix of activities that can be introduced gradually.

Ideas include:

• Colouring sets
• Small puzzles
• Simple craft packs
• A tablet with pre downloaded shows
• Favourite toys
• A quiet activity book
• A surprise item for emergency situations

Think of entertainment as your in flight toolkit. When one activity loses its charm, another keeps them engaged.

3. Pack Snacks and Drinks:

Hunger leads to restlessness, and restlessness leads to meltdowns. Pack familiar snacks such as fruit slices, crackers, muesli bars, rice cakes, and small treats. Bring an empty water bottle to fill up after security.

Avoid messy foods on flights. Small, clean snacks keep everyone calm and settled.

4. Comfort Items:

Children find comfort in familiarity. A small blanket, soft toy, or favourite pillow can make the cabin environment feel safer. These items help with napping and reduce the stress of unfamiliar surroundings.

5. Choose Red Eye Flights:

Schedule Flights Strategically; consider scheduling your flights during times when your child is most likely to nap or sleep. Red-eye flights or flights during naptime can be a good choice. This is particularly important when travelling on long haul flights that are over 12 hours in duration, like EK241 Dubai to Toronto, or EK409 Melbourne to Dubai.

6. Explain the Process:

Walking children through what to expect can reduce anxiety. Explain security, boarding, seatbelts, take off, landing, and what the cabin will look and sound like. A little familiarity makes the experience far less daunting.

7. Help With Ear Pressure:

Changes in cabin pressure can be uncomfortable. Encourage children to sip water, chew, or use a dummy during take off and landing. It helps equalise ear pressure and prevents discomfort.

8. Dress Children Comfortably:

Comfortable layers allow for easy temperature adjustments. Bring an extra set of clothing in case of spills or accidents. Comfortable clothing keeps children relaxed and reduces irritability.

9. Seat Belts and Rules:

Explain the importance of wearing a seatbelt and sitting safely during turbulence. Children respond well when they understand the “why” behind the rule.

10. Ask Crew for Assistance:

Cabin crew deal with children daily and understand what families need. Many will offer blankets, water, help with heating bottles, or general support. A quick chat with the crew often helps everyone feel more relaxed.

11. Limit Sugar:

High sugar snacks can create hyperactivity followed by a sudden crash. Offer balanced snacks instead to keep energy consistent.

12. Stay Calm Yourself:

Children take their emotional cues from adults. Staying calm and composed, especially when they are overwhelmed, helps them regulate faster. A calm parent equals a calm child.

13. Use Electronic Devices Strategically:

Screens are best saved for the more restless moments. They provide maximum distraction when you time them wisely.

14. Respect Other Passengers:

Most passengers are understanding when they see a parent genuinely trying their best. A quick smile or quiet apology goes a long way if your child is unsettled. And while parents doing their best rarely bother anyone, the adults who behave like the rules don’t apply to them certainly do; you’ll recognise them in the most annoying things people do on planes.

15. Plan Toilet Breaks Before Boarding:

Cabin toilets can be cramped and unpredictable. Encouraging a bathroom visit before boarding helps reduce stress later.

16. Bring Essential Medications:

If your child has allergies, asthma, or any condition requiring medication, pack it in your carry on where it is easily accessible.

17. Follow the Rules:

Adhere to airline rules regarding car seats, booster seats, and any other safety requirements for children.

18. Encourage Good Behaviour With Positive Reinforcement:

A little praise helps children stay on track. Use small rewards for good behaviour, patience, or cooperation.

Remember that every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and adaptable, and don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go perfectly. With the right preparation and a positive attitude, you can make air travel with children a more manageable experience for everyone involved.

🧩 Airlines offering additional support for neurodiverse children

For families travelling with children who have autism or sensory sensitivities, air travel can be particularly overwhelming. In recent years, some airlines have started introducing more structured support to make the experience easier for both children and parents.

In 2025, Emirates became the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, with over 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff trained to better support passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities. This training is designed to help staff recognise sensory overload, communicate more clearly, and provide appropriate assistance throughout the journey.

Emirates has also introduced Travel Rehearsal programmes in 17 cities worldwide, allowing children to practise the airport and boarding process in a calm, controlled environment before travelling on a real flight. In addition, the airline has rolled out onboard sensory items and fidget toys to help neurodiverse passengers manage overstimulation during the flight.

The airline’s Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub brings this information together in one place, with digital sensory guides, accessibility-friendly website navigation, and support organised by disability type or stage of the journey.

👶 Breastfeeding on a Plane: Tips for Comfort and Ease

Breastfeeding your baby on a flight can be a bit challenging, but with some preparation and following these tips, you can make the process more comfortable for both you and your baby:

Plan ahead

Before your flight, make sure you have everything you need, such as extra diapers, a changing pad, a shawl or nursing cover (if you prefer to use one), and any necessary baby supplies.

Choose your seat wisely:

When booking your flight, try to select a seat that provides more privacy and space, such as a window seat or a bulkhead seat with extra legroom. Some airlines also offer seats with more privacy for nursing.

Time your feedings:

Try to time your baby’s feeding schedule so that you can nurse during takeoff and landing. The sucking and swallowing can help relieve ear pressure for your baby during these times.

Dress comfortably:

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access for nursing. Consider wearing a nursing bra and a top that can be easily lifted or unbuttoned.

Use a nursing cover (if desired):

If you prefer to use a nursing cover, make sure it’s lightweight and breathable to keep your baby comfortable. Some covers have a built-in wire at the neckline, making it easier to maintain eye contact with your baby.

Practice good latch:

Make sure your baby has a good latch to minimize any discomfort or nipple pain. A good latch also ensures that your baby gets enough milk.

Stay hydrated and eat well:

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the flight. It’s essential to maintain your own energy levels and milk supply.

Be prepared for turbulence:

If there’s turbulence during the flight, be extra cautious while breastfeeding to ensure your baby’s safety.

Communicate with flight attendants:

Let the flight attendants know that you’ll be breastfeeding, and they may be able to provide you with some assistance, such as a pillow or extra blankets for added comfort.

Comfort your baby:

Bring your baby’s favorite comfort items, such as a pacifier or a small toy, to help soothe them during the flight.

Remember that many airlines and fellow passengers are understanding and supportive of breastfeeding mothers. If you encounter any issues or feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to ask for help or discuss your concerns with the flight crew. Your baby’s comfort and well-being are a top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling With Children

What is the best age to travel with children?

There is no perfect age because every child is different, but many parents find travel easiest once routines are predictable. Babies under one can be surprisingly easy because they sleep more, while preschoolers often enjoy exploring new places. Older children tend to travel well as long as they are entertained and included in the process.

How do I keep children entertained on long flights?

Bring a variety of small activities and introduce them slowly. Tablets with pre downloaded shows, colouring books, stickers, audiobooks, small toys, and one surprise item all work extremely well. Rotate activities so children stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.

How do I stop my child from crying during take off or landing?

Ear pressure is usually the cause. Encourage children to sip water, drink from a bottle, chew, or use a dummy. Swallowing helps equalise the pressure in their ears. For infants, breastfeeding or bottle feeding works beautifully during these moments.

Is it safe to travel with children during long layovers?

Yes, as long as you plan ahead. Choose airports with family facilities, play areas, lounges, and quiet spaces. Schedule light activities and avoid rushing between terminals. Regular breaks help keep children settled during long travel days.

Should I bring my own car seat when travelling?

Many parents prefer to bring their own because it is familiar, safe, and trusted. Others rent one at the destination. If you decide to hire a car seat overseas, research local safety laws first and book through reputable companies. Some airlines allow you to take car seats on board if they meet specific safety ratings.

What are the best seats for families on planes?

Bulkhead rows with bassinets are ideal for infants. Families with older children often prefer aisle and centre combinations for easy movement. Aircraft like Singapore Airlines A350, Emirates 777 business class, Air New Zealand Skycouch, and Air New Zealand Skynest offer particularly family friendly configurations.

How do I reduce travel stress for children?

Stick to familiar routines as much as possible. Bring comfort items, include children in small decisions, offer snacks regularly, and take breaks to reset their energy. Children settle more easily when they feel safe and included.

Is it better to take morning or evening flights with children?

This depends on your child. Evening flights often work well because children naturally fall asleep. Morning flights can also be calmer because airports are quieter. Many parents prefer red eye flights for long haul travel because children sleep through most of the journey.

How much should I pack when travelling with children?

Pack essentials such as wipes, nappies, extra clothing, snacks, comfort items, and an organised entertainment kit. Avoid overpacking by preparing a simple checklist. Bring what you know your child will actually use rather than everything you think you might need.

Are children allowed in all airport lounges?

Most lounges welcome families, but a few have age restrictions. For example, Zipair business class does not allow children under six. Some lounges like the Air New Zealand Koru Lounge and Turkish Airlines Lounge offer dedicated play areas that parents love. It is always worth checking the lounge policy before you arrive.

Do airlines accommodate breastfeeding mothers?

Yes. Most airlines fully support breastfeeding on board. You can feed your baby at any time including take off and landing. Cabin crew are usually happy to assist with pillows, blankets, and privacy if needed.

How do I prepare my child for their first flight?

Talk them through what will happen. Explain security, boarding, the sounds of take off, and what the cabin will look like. A simple conversation reduces anxiety and helps children feel excited rather than unsure.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with children is one of those experiences that tests you, teaches you, and rewards you all at once. Not every moment will be perfect, but the memories you create last far longer than the challenges you face along the way.

With a little preparation, a calm mindset, and practical strategies like these, travelling with children becomes smoother, happier, and far more enjoyable for everyone. Embrace the moments, enjoy the journey, and take comfort knowing that every trip builds confidence for the next one.

Before you head off, remember two important things. Always organise travel insurance, and never post your boarding pass on social media.

📚 Related Reading

• Emirates Bans Kids in First Class on Redemption Tickets
• EES Rollout by Country: Start Dates & Timelines (2025–2026)
• Travel Tiredness vs Jet Lag: What’s the Difference?
• How to Beat Jet Lag: 7 Scientific Tips & What Finally Worked for Me
• Non-Stop vs. Direct Flights: What’s the Difference?
• Airlines with the Coolest Onboard Features You Will Love
• Do I Have to Recheck Bags on a Connecting Flight?
• What is the best gift for someone who travels?
• Solo Travel Anxiety: Top Tips for a Stress-Free Journey
• The Ultimate Travel Packing List: (Free PDF Checklist)

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