We love to travel whether it’s an adventure in one of the many destinations in the Philippines or out of the country for a run. When we have Gab, it does not us from doing so.

I had to attend an event for the weekend in Boracay. I was exclusively breastfeeding him and and do not want to leave him behind. And so at 3 months old, he had his first plane ride and vacation.

Gab at 3 months old in Boracay

Here are some travel tips when you go out for a holiday with your family with the tots in tow:

1. Plan your trip and Stick to Routines

When buying plane tickets, make sure to check available schedules that will not disrupt the children’s routine.  Book for flights that you will  give you ample time to finish what the kids to do like eating or having a nap.

What worked for us are usually before lunch to early afternoon flights. We go straight to the airport right after waking up.

This also applies in planning for activities like going to the theme park. No to minimal routine disruptions mean a happy kid in tow.

A mommy friend also has a post on how to score affordable or cheap flight tickets when travelling with the family that you might find helpful.

2. Provide Activities

Keep kids amused. Bring a book, a workbook or a toy depending on what you think you can keep them busy and entertained.

Gab at 3, workbooks keep him busy

In bringing a toy, just bring one favorite toy. As much as possible avoid those with many pieces that is hard to keep track of. If the kids are old enough, they can decide on what they need to bring on the carry on luggage.

3. Bring Snacks

A hungry kid means a fussy little one. Bring snacks that’s familiar like a favorite cookies, crackers, granola bars and dried fruits wherever you go. If your kids are into sweets, limit the amount of candies to avoid sugar-overload and makes kids crave for them more later.

It’s usually Gab’s favorite cookies, bread sticks and a bottled water.

4. Take Your Time

With the little ones in tow, plan for a slower pace than you might usually do. As much as you want to see many places, be realistic about what you can cover.

Research your destination and prepare a list of possible activities. Note on the various lengths of time to get to the place, to do the activity and also the weather conditions. Do everything at a liesurely and enjoyable pace with the kids.

5.  See your Doctor and bring Medicines

It is advised that you see your pediatrician and tell the doctor of the plans if you are travelling out of the country. During travel, bring the baby’s book and first aid supplies you might need.

For us, we usually bring medicines that we are not sure to see in local pharmacies like teething remedies (when Gab was on his teething stage),  an anti allergy medicine, his vitamins, saline solution nasal spray and Gab’s own thermometer and nail cutter. These goes to the carry on luggage.

6.  Pack wipes and extra clothes

Take these items for mess clean ups –  pack of wet wipes, hand sanitizer and disposable bags (if child is still using diapers).

There should be extra clothes in the carry on luggage that is easily accessible for changes in case of spilled drinks all over themself or even worse, if they didn’t quite make it to the bathroom.

7. Provide Identification IDs

Loosing a child can happen anywhere – at an amusement park, or zoo, even inside a mall or grocery. That’s why it is important for a child to have a personal identification  and parents’ contact numbers.

There are wearable ids like a bracelet, one that can be attached on the shoes and even a safety tattoo. Of course, these are added immediate and highly visible form of identification but nothing should replace our own eyes for keeping our kids by our side.

For smaller kids, make sure to bring birth certificate as identification. Ofcourse, passport will be the best identification, but a NSO certified birth certificate is acceptable.

8. Check Special Lanes

Those travelling with infants and small children often have special privileges. In a plane, you can request for your preferred seats and can even board ahead of the rest of the passengers.

For bus and taxi lanes, check out the courtesy lane for pregant and elderly. Most of the time they will accomodate parents with kids to skip the long lines for you to get on a bus or cab.

9.  Prepare Kids for the Travel

Teach your kids what to expect and how to behave during the travel. Show them photos of what they are riding and the place they are going.

10. Attend to your Kids

Finally, just attend to your kids. Be watchful of signs that they’re over-stimulated or bored.  Have fun with them during the travel. It’s a chance for some quality time.

Then and Now…Our little helper, getting ready for his Bacolod vacation!

A photo posted by Que Sullano-Gavan (@takbophchic) on Dec 12, 2013 at 10:02pm PST

With a bit of know-how, travelling with children, no matter what age, need not be a hassle.

Related post:  Tips on How to Travel Light