Have you ever attempted to travel with kids? Is there anything worse than hearing your child whine as you’re traveling?
Actually, let me ask that differently. Is there anything worse than hearing your child whine?
First, let’s rule out easy solutions: hunger and sleep.
If your child is whining because he is bored, I feel your pain, friends. You’re in luck. If you’re stuck in a plane, car, a camping tent, or train with a whiny child, these tips are for you!
How to Survive (& Have Fun) Traveling with Kids
Take a Break – When it comes to traveling for a long period of time, there is often an obvious solution right in front of you. Stop and stretch legs! Sitting for long periods is hard on kids. When you notice that your child may be getting a bit cranky, it’s time to get them out of the vehicle. Let them take a break. As much as your kids need the break, I’m sure you need the break as well. Play a few games with the kids and let them run around, they’ve earned it!
Related Read: Traveling with Kids Doesn't Have to Be Stressful – Ideas for Seattle Kid Friendly Activities
Pack Extra Snacks – Stay on top of impending explosions! Pack extra, maybe even their favorite, snacks.
Talk to the Kids – Traveling for a long period of time kind of makes you want to zone out, however, your kids may be bored, which is why they are whiney. Make sure you take the time to talk to your kids and see how they are doing. Talking to them might distract them from whining, which will make the whole house super happy.
Listen to Music – Something that we do in my family when traveling is listen to music together. There’s just something about the right music that really gets everyone in a good mood. It’s no fun being whiney and in a bad moon, which is why I always have a nice selection of music ready to go for the kiddos.
Allow Devices – We don’t deny our kids the use of iPads or other devices while we’re traveling. You know what, it is fun! They’re excited to watch movies and play apps. Plus, the power struggle is gone.
Bring Earplugs – Sometimes the kids just need to zone out whenever they are traveling. Bring a pair of nice earplugs for them to use. You can also use earbuds or headphones, whatever works best. Plus, this might help you keep some sanity as well. If you’re not the one driving, you can also feel free to use earplugs. Sometimes mom or dad need a break too. Just remember you can’t use earplugs while driving.
Whining while traveling is no fun for anyone. Just remember that your kids are human and it’s their way of responding to the stress of traveling. If you can help them in anyway, I’d suggest using the aforementioned tips.
Do you have any tips for dealing with whining from kids while traveling? I’d love to hear your tips!
Traveling with Infants
Truth is that some of these tricks won’t work with infants, because they need a little bit different care and distractions that the older kids do. Truth be told your highest traveling with your infant is that they sleep at the best times, sleep well, and eat well.
If you are traveling with infants I think you will find these 16 Tips for Traveling with Infants to be very useful!
Marnie