4 Methods for Flawless Toddler Travel (By: Kendra Thornton - guest blogger)

I'm really glad Kendra contacted me about doing a guest blog post! With many of my readers being military, traveling is must! Be it vacations or PCSing. Here are Kendra's tips! ---

It's hard enough to travel with children locally, but when you throw in the word vacation it can be a true struggle.  There are some tricks to make travel with your little one easier on them and you by default.  By planning ahead, you can all make it to your international travel destination as a happy, healthy and cultured family.

Routine Keeps Everyone Going

Changes to schedules are hard on adults, so when making an adjustment to your mini me’s routine you will likely encounter an issue or two.  Whenever possible try to emulate their schedule back home, including naps, bedtime, and mealtime.  Not napping creates cranky kids that will ruin the afternoon’s plans.  Waiting until 7pm to eat dinner is also a bad idea. Also make sure your little one gets healthy snacks throughout the day.

Ziploc Bags Are Your Friend

Think how much you use Ziploc bags at home and multiply your needs when traveling.  Pack your essential goods for kids in individual bags, like first aid, extra clothes, wipes and diapers.  That way you can take out just what you need when you need it, and not drag a huge bag into the airplane bathroom.  Bringing them with you will also give you the opportunity to clean your kids up before you arrive at your destination.  Bring empty bags with you in your luggage as well, for needs that show up along the road.

Kid Accommodations

Picking the right hotel or resort accommodations when traveling with kids is crucial.  Amenities that you may have neglected in the past are now essential, such as a fridge for storing bottles or a microwave for warming up leftovers.  Vacations are fun but they can also be a hassle without the necessities of home.  Look for family friendly lodging to avoid going without.  Kid friendly resorts provide entertainment for the whole family and are a great option to consider.  My family of five found a great Honolulu hotel when traveling to Hawaii that had luxurious amenities and kids meals at every dining venue!  With all the options out there, you don’t have to sacrifice quality when looking for family fun.

Child-Proof Your Tech for Their Use

Load your iPad or other device with educational apps to keep your kids entertained.  Between these games and a favorite movie they can be happily and quietly engaged on any flight or car ride.  You can child-proof them as well so they can only access what you allow, protecting them and the device.  

Bio: Kendra Thornton: Travel advocate, TV spokesperson, PR businesswoman, proud wife and mama of 3. I am a long time travel expert who has been packing my bags and traveling the world since I was 3 months old! I've found my utmost desire in life is right here in my own home. I have taken my excitement for travel and brought it to you with some of my favorite travel tips and tricks. Enjoy!

 If you'd like to contact Kendra for more info -
thorntontravel3@gmail.com