Traveling with a Toddler

It's not easy to travel with kids, especially toddlers.  My parents live in Bacolod so,  traveling is something that we do quite frequently.  I have listed a few tips (that worked for me) when we traveled with my two-year old Energizer bunny.

Flights - If you are taking a plane ride, do not choose the late evening flight.  When we flew back to Manila, we chose the flight that departed at 8pm.  WRONG MOVE!  There is a bigger chance that the flight will get delayed and that means dealing with a cranky, sleepy toddler.  Then when we arrived in Manila, the traffic from the airport is still bad and it took us a while to get home.  We were so tired then.

The morning flight or the afternoon flight worked best for us.  And check the airline's website once in a while.    Cebu Pacific has several promos offered to its passengers.  Our one way flight (for 4 pax) cost us almost four (4) thousand pesos only.

Baby Carrier - Choose a sturdy and comfortable Baby Sling or Carrier for you and your kid.  I personally have worn my son for almost 2 years now and I find these carriers a necessity when traveling.  Using the sling would mean me having two extra hands to carry my bags or push the cart.

wearing my baby at the airport check in counter

Toddler's Nook - Be in the lookout for Toddler's nook at the airport.  I've discovered that there is one at the Iloilo City Airport and Bacolod Silay Airport.  It certainly helped me in keeping my son entertained while waiting for our flight.

Toys - Bring a toy (or two) inside your carry on bag.  These will come in handy during the flight.  My son didn't sleep the entire flight so he ended up playing with Mater and Robot.

Keeping himself entertained during the flight

Breastfeed or Offer a Bottle during Takeoff or Landing - This will encourage your kid to swallow thereby helping him (or her) to adjust to the changes in the cabin pressure.  I've seen this work numerous times. Trust me.

Now all you have to do is check whether your carry on bag has the essentials.  Sippy cups, bottles and formula (if you're bottle feeding), toys, extra nappies, wipes and don't forget your ticket and your toddler's birth certificate.   Then relax and enjoy the start of your vacation.

What about you? Got any travel tips?