Advice

Top Tips for Travelling with Tots  

 
Family holidays aren’t always plain sailing, especially when travelling with young children. Holidays put children out of their normal routine and can be a stressful time for both parents and children.

Taking young children on holiday does not have to be a nightmare or stressful for parents, by following a few tips that Leapfrog has put together, holidays should get off to a flying start and ensure that everyone will be heading off feeling relaxed and happy!


Be Prepared –

  • Choose the destination with care; some places are more child-friendly than others. Make sure the facilities you need are available upon arrival.
  • Check the baggage allowance. This varies between airlines but small children may not have an allowance, although some airlines will take pushchairs at no extra cost
  • Plan the journey. If travelling by car, make sure plenty of breaks are taken, and in particular ones that are geared up for children. Stopping frequently will give young ones to run around and burn off some energy and go to the toilet
  • Dress young children in comfortable, loose clothing
  • Long car journeys or airport delay can make children restless. Keep them occupied with plenty of toys and travel games, books and music etc…

Safety First–

  • Travel safe. Always check that child seats are fitted correctly – in your own vehicle and hire cars
  • Ensure that accommodation meets the same safety standards you have in your home. Check door and window locks and electrical sockets and remove any objects that may be of danger to young children
  • Teach your child the importance of playing safe in the water and ensure that they are familiar with water safety signs. Non swimmers or less confident should wear arm-bands/buoyancy aids at all times in and around water
  • Ensure toys bought in another country carry a registered safety mark/symbol

Fun in the Sun –



  • Remember to apply sun cream regularly to children to avoid sun burn and keep them shaded during the hottest part of the day and keep a supply of cooling drinks to hand to avoid dehydration
  • When it comes to eating out, look for places where you can eat al fresco. This can be more relaxing for children and gives them more freedom to move around and make more noise
  • Holidays can mean lack of normal routine, excitable children and late nights so try to make sure that the family has a siesta from time to time
  • Look into children’s clubs and baby-sitting services at the resort; these help give parents some valuable free time to relax!