Travel-Friendly Devices To Keep Your Toddler Engaged

Travelling with a 2-year-old can be challenging, but with the right devices and preparation, your trip can go smoothly. Here are some tips to make your journey a little easier.

First, consider investing in a GPS tracking device, especially if you're travelling to a new country. This will give you peace of mind and ensure you can locate your child at all times. Additionally, a child harness and reins can provide your toddler with a sense of independence while keeping them safe and close by.

To keep your little one entertained, bring along a tablet pre-loaded with their favourite shows, movies, games, and books. This can be a lifesaver during long flights or car rides. You can also pack some new toys, stickers, colouring books, and other creative activities to keep them engaged. Don't forget to download their favourite shows or movies onto your device before leaving home, in case you don't have access to Wi-Fi during your travels.

For added comfort, consider bringing a travel pillow or inflatable bed for your toddler. These can make all the difference when it comes to helping them sleep during your journey.

Lastly, don't forget the snacks! Pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep your toddler happy and avoid any hangry meltdowns.

Snacks and meals

When travelling with a 2-year-old, it is important to pack enough snacks and meals to keep them happy and healthy. Here are some tips to make food preparation easier and ensure a stress-free journey:

Planning and Packing:

• Plan and pack meals and snacks according to the length of your trip. Consider how many meals you will need to provide and whether you want to bring all your food or purchase some along the way.
• Pack your toddler's favourite foods to keep them happy and well-nourished.
• Use bento-style lunchboxes or stackable containers to keep food contained and easily accessible during travel.
• If you are travelling by car, a small cooler is useful for storing perishable food items. Thin ice packs or frozen applesauce pouches can help keep food cool.
• Pack shelf-stable, fuss-free, and non-messy foods that are easy for your toddler to eat on the go.

Snack and Meal Ideas:

• Crackers, puffs, and dry cereal are easy to pack and can be portioned into reusable containers.
• Muffins, such as blueberry banana muffins, chocolate protein muffins, or banana oatmeal muffins, are nutritious and can be diced into bite-sized pieces.
• For less-messy fruit options, consider blueberries, halved grapes, dehydrated or freeze-dried fruit, or fruit smoothies in reusable pouches.
• Easy protein sources include shredded or diced chicken, overnight oats with yogurt and berries, cheese sticks or string cheese, and milk in shelf-stable containers.
• Raw veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes can be cut into thin strips or matchsticks.
• Other snack ideas include granola bars, fruit/veggie pouches, dried fruit like raisins, and diced fruit like strawberries.

Remember to pack a variety of foods to keep your toddler interested and well-nourished throughout your journey. By planning and packing wisely, you can ensure that mealtimes are enjoyable and stress-free during your travels.

Entertainment and toys

Travelling with a 2-year-old can be challenging, but entertainment and toys can help keep them occupied. Here are some ideas to keep your toddler entertained while travelling:

• Window gel clings are great for sticking on airplane windows, and stickers can also be used on windows or trays.
• New toys specifically for the trip can help keep your toddler entertained. Try to choose toys that are budget-friendly, mess-free, and easy to pack, like post-it notes, colouring books, or small magnetic drawing boards.
• Bring your toddler's favourite toys for comfort and familiarity.
• A tablet pre-loaded with games, shows, and movies can be a lifesaver for parents. Don't forget toddler-friendly headphones!
• Books are great for entertainment and comfort. Try to bring a mix of your toddler's favourites and new books they haven't seen before.
• Snacks are essential for travelling with a 2-year-old. Bring a variety of snacks like raisins, bananas, apples, breadsticks, mini sausages, and frozen yoghurt pouches.

Clothing and comfort

Clothing Choices:

• Opt for layers—dress your toddler in light layers that can be easily removed or added depending on the temperature. This could include a t-shirt, a jumper, and a jacket.
• Choose dark-coloured or patterned clothing to disguise any spills or messes that may occur.
• Avoid cardigans or sweaters with zippers, as these will need to be removed during security checks.
• Ensure your child's footwear is comfortable and easy to take on and off. Slip-on shoes or sneakers are a good choice.
• Bring a hat if travelling during the summer to protect their head from the sun.
• Pack a back-up outfit in case of spills or messes.

Comfort Tips:

• Bring a scarf, shawl, or sarong to protect your child's neck and ears from strong air-conditioning.
• Consider using a stroller to easily transport your child through the airport.
• If your child is not yet potty-trained, pull-ups can be easier to change than diapers, especially on planes with small changing tables.
• Bring a small, new toy or book to keep your child entertained and comfortable during the journey.
• A foldable travel tray can be useful for playing and eating, providing a stable surface and reducing mess.
• For long journeys, consider a travel bed or blow-up footrest to help your toddler sleep comfortably.

Sleep aids

Travelling with a 2-year-old can be challenging, especially when it comes to getting them to sleep. Here are some sleep aids to consider:

Consistent Sleep Schedule:

It is essential to maintain a consistent sleep schedule for your toddler, both at home and while travelling. This means sticking to the same bedtime and wake-up time every day, including weekends. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your child's body clock and can make it easier for them to fall asleep and wake up.

Calming Bedtime Routine:

Establish a calming and consistent bedtime routine. This can include activities such as giving your toddler a warm bath, playing a quiet game, reading bedtime stories, singing lullabies, and giving goodnight cuddles. Keep the routine consistent, even when travelling, to signal to your child that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Comfort Objects:

Bring your child's favourite comfort objects when travelling. This could be a soft blanket, a stuffed animal, or a security blanket. These objects can provide familiarity and comfort in a new environment, making it easier for your child to fall asleep.

Portable White Noise Machine:

White noise machines can be very helpful in blocking out distracting noises and creating a calm and relaxing sleep environment. Look for portable, travel-friendly options that can be easily packed and used on the go.

Night Light:

A night light can be reassuring for toddlers who may feel anxious in an unfamiliar place. It can help them feel safer and more comfortable in their new sleeping environment, making it easier to fall asleep.

Melatonin:

Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep. While it is available as a supplement, it is important to consult your child's pediatrician before giving it to a 2-year-old, as there may be potential side effects, and it is not regulated by the FDA for children.

Remember to prioritize your child's safety when using any sleep aids and always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns or questions about your child's sleep.

Health and hygiene

Travelling with a 2-year-old can be challenging, but being prepared can make the experience much smoother. Here are some health and hygiene tips to keep in mind when travelling with a 2-year-old:

Hygiene Kit

It is essential to carry a hygiene kit with you when travelling with a toddler. This kit should include germ protection wipes, which are easy to carry and resealable. These wipes can be used to clean your child's hands and body, as well as surfaces they come into contact with, such as armrests and toys. Additionally, include antibacterial hand sanitiser and sanitizing wipes in your kit to keep your surroundings clean.

Medical Kit

A first aid kit is crucial when travelling with a young child. It should include basic first aid essentials such as bandages, antiseptic disinfectant liquid, antibacterial creams, and small scissors. Don't forget to pack any prescribed medications, such as inhalers, allergy medicine, or insulin. Pain relievers, such as infant pain relievers, are also a good idea to have on hand.

Skin Care

To prevent skin infections, pack a dusting powder to keep your child's skin healthy and dry, especially in the perineal area and the groin region, which are prone to fungal infections. Additionally, carry a skin moisturiser and sunscreen with the correct SPF to prevent sunburns.

Intimate Hygiene

When using public restrooms, use antibacterial baby wipes to clean toilet seats, or carry disinfectant sprays. Always clean the area before and after urinating. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding holding urine for too long can help prevent urinary tract infections. It is also a good idea to pack menstrual products and waste disposal bags, especially if the trip coincides with the expected date of menstruation.

Food and Drinks

When travelling, it is essential to maintain proper food and drink hygiene. Carry a cooler with ice packs to store snacks and drinks for your toddler. Ensure that you have enough snacks to keep them occupied during the trip. Some healthy options include apple or orange slices, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, yogurt tubes, and bags of mini cookies.

Hand and Oral Hygiene

Promote good hand and oral hygiene by providing your child with regular access to handwashing facilities and antibacterial hand sanitiser. Additionally, encourage them to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Clothing

Pack comfortable and loose-fitting clothing for your toddler. It is also a good idea to bring extra clothing for both yourself and your child in case of accidents, spills, or sickness.

Frequently asked questions