Traveling With a Toddler: Essential Tips for Parents

Why Travel With a Toddler?

Traveling with a toddler has its challenges, but it also brings fresh perspective to family trips. You get to experience places through your toddler’s eyes, and the slower pace often reveals things you might otherwise miss. Whether it’s a splash in a fountain or a quiet moment on a train ride, these shared experiences can make travel more meaningful for everyone. CALPAK has put together a guide on how to travel with a toddler.

Mindset Matters: How to Prepare for Toddler Travel

Things won’t always go as planned when you’re traveling with a toddler. Accepting that early helps reduce stress. Stay flexible, keep expectations realistic, and don’t underestimate the power of snacks and humor. A calm, go-with-the-flow attitude sets the tone for the entire trip, here are a few tips for traveling with a toddler.

Planning the Right Toddler-Friendly Trip

Choosing a Destination

Opt for places with toddler-friendly attractions, outdoor spaces, and short distances between points of interest. Less is more—focus on one or two activities per day with room to pause, snack, and regroup. Cities with reliable public transport, pedestrian zones, or walkable neighborhoods make getting around much easier. National parks, beach towns, and family resorts are great choices because they naturally accommodate young children and offer a slower pace. 

Timing Your Travel

Aim for flights during your toddler’s natural sleep times, or early in the morning when they tend to be at their best. Avoid late-night arrivals if possible to reduce overstimulation and fatigue. For road trips, plan departure times around your child’s nap schedule—leaving just before nap time can mean quiet, restful travel. Try to avoid rush-hour traffic and allow for flexibility in case of delays.

Finding Toddler-Friendly Accommodations

Prioritize comfort and convenience. Accommodations with cribs, kitchens, laundry access, and easy access to outdoor spaces will make traveling with a toddler more manageable. Being close to restaurants, grocery stores, and playgrounds is also helpful. When comparing options, look for family-friendly extras like play areas, high chairs, or even babysitting services. A small yard or balcony can provide an easy break spot when your toddler needs some downtime without having to leave the property. 

Medical Preparations

Pack a small medical kit with toddler essentials: fever reducer, teething relief, allergy medicine, and any prescriptions. If traveling with toddlers abroad, research local healthcare and any recommended vaccinations. Look up the address and contact information of the nearest urgent care center or pharmacy at your destination. Bring copies of your toddler’s health insurance information, and check your plan for out-of-network or international coverage. 

Toddler Travel Essentials

Clothes and Comfort Items

Bring familiar clothes your toddler likes to wear, plus layers for changing weather. Include a blanket or stuffed animal that helps with sleep and transitions. Having something familiar nearby makes new environments feel safer. If your child is used to a sleep sack, pack that too—anything that signals routine can help them settle faster in a new place.

Snacks and Meals

Snacks are a key part of the travel toolkit. Pack a variety of toddler-friendly options in individual bags for easy access. Include items your toddler eats regularly to avoid food struggles on the go. A spill-proof snack cup and a reusable water bottle will also come in handy. If your toddler has dietary restrictions, plan ahead by bringing shelf-stable items they’re used to. 

Health and Hygiene Supplies

Carry a kit with diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, a change of clothes, and travel-sized toiletries. CALPAK’s Baby Collection makes it easy to keep these items organized and accessible. Store smaller items in individual pouches so you’re not digging around when it counts.

Entertainment for Toddlers on the Go

Pack a few compact, low-mess activities: coloring books, small puzzles, stickers, or magnetic toys. Preload a tablet with shows or games for downtime. Rotate items throughout the trip to keep your toddler engaged.

Must-Have Toddler Travel Gear

Having the right gear can make traveling with a toddler go more smoothly. Here are a few toddler travel luggage must-haves:

• Toddler-Sized Backpacks: The Mini Kaya Backpack is a great choice for toddlers to carry their own toys and snacks. Check out our kids' collection that has a variety of kid-sized options.
• Diaper Bags: CALPAK’s Diaper Bag includes compartments for organization, insulated bottle holders, and a fold-out changing mat.
• Compact Travel Cribs: Lightweight, foldable cribs help maintain familiar sleep routines and provide a consistent sleep setup.
• Packing Cubes: Use CALPAK’s packing cubes to sort clothes by type or activity. They help streamline packing and make changes on the go easier.
• Carry-On Luggage: The Carry-On Luggage collection from CALPAK features organized compartments and smooth-rolling wheels—perfect for traveling with kids.

Managing Airports, Flights, and Road Trips With Toddlers

Airport Survival Tips

Arrive early, bring plenty of snacks and toys, and use a gate-checkable stroller for easy mobility. A familiar toy or activity at each stage of the airport process helps keep toddlers calm and busy.

In-Flight Toddler Survival

Prepare with small toys, a fully charged tablet, and plenty of snacks. Use lollipops, bottles, or sippy cups to help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing. Break up long flights with activities at regular intervals.

Road Trip Strategies

Build in regular stops every couple of hours. Pack toys, books, and audio stories within reach. Keep snack options close and plan drive times around nap schedules when possible.

Keeping Toddlers Comfortable at the Destination

Stick to your toddler’s daily rhythm as much as you can. Try to maintain usual nap and meal times, and explore nearby playgrounds for breaks between sightseeing. Familiar routines create structure and help toddlers settle into new environments.

Check your destination’s passport requirements—some countries require six months of validity beyond the return date. Learn a few simple phrases related to children in the local language. Be flexible with public behavior norms and be prepared for differences in child-friendly spaces.

Final Tip on Traveling With a Toddler: Embrace the Adventure

Focus on being prepared, staying flexible, and making time for rest. Toddler travel isn’t about perfection—it’s about being together and learning how to adapt. Even when things go sideways, you’re still making progress (and memories).

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best tips for traveling internationally with a toddler? 

Choose destinations that are easy to navigate and offer family-friendly activities. Organize your diaper bag for easy access to essentials, bring a compact stroller, and keep nap and snack times on schedule as best you can.

What travel documents are required for a 2 year old?

A valid passport is required for international travel. Some countries may also need a visa or proof of vaccinations. Always confirm entry requirements with the appropriate consulate.

What is the best age to travel with a toddler or baby?

Many parents find ages 18 months to 2.5 years manageable—they’re curious and active, but still small enough to transport easily. With preparation, any age can work for travel.

For more helpful ideas, check out our Family Packing List and Family Travel Tips.