Each child should have their own “stuff” on the plane, in the car etc.

Each child should have a backpack or bag of their own for the trip. The bag should be filled with a wide variety of items that are entertaining, educational, stimulate creativity and allow for close quarters play. Giving each child a different colored bag or writing their name on it will reduce “that’s mine” in families with multiple children. See Little Kid or Big Kid Backpacks.

Pack snacks for the trip.

Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks for the trip. Packing healthy snacks and water or no sugar added juice will help to reduce the after sugar energy rush in the car. Avoid juice boxes and pouches. One squeeze and you have a wet, sticky child and probably a wet, sticky car too. Plastic water and juice bottles, preferably with a push/pull drink spout, are best. Be sure to also pack diaper wipes, hand sanitizer, paper towels and a bag for garbage. See Snack Attack Backpack.

Make plenty of rest stops.

Stopping at rest stops frequently will allow your child to get some fresh air and burn some energy. On long trips be sure to allow for several short stops as well as long rest stops every 2 hours or so. Allowing time for your children to burn excess energy is important. Take along a backpack or bag filled with flexible flyers, jump ropes, foam footballs, soft balls, gloves, velcro mitts and balls, etc. Throw in a stopwatch for running relays and dribbling contests. See Go Active Backpack.

Parent Necessities

Packing these items will help you to cover clean ups as well as minor emergencies. Pack a backpack or bag with diaper wipes (great for hands and faces) or hand sanitizer, paper towels, a bag for litter, assorted sized bandages, first aid cream, anti-bacterial spray, children’s acetaminophen (or whatever you prefer), a thermometer and zippered baggies (for creating ice packs). Have a child who is afraid of the dark? Pack a travel nightlight for the hotel room or grandma’s house.See Parent Backpack.

Nap Time

Prepare for nap time, even for children that do not normally nap. Traveling can make children sleepy. Providing for nap time comfort will make the trip easier on everyone. Packing a small pillow, throw blanket or a cuddly stuffed animal can make nap time more restful. See Nap Time Backpack.