Tips for Traveling with Little Ones

At Best Western Hotels & Resorts, we love celebrating families, especially when it comes to hitting the open road together. It is a time of bonding, creating memories and enjoying new activities. However, traveling with little ones is an experience that puts any traveler’s knowledge to the test.

To help families make the most of their quality time, as well as ensuring they have a safe journey, here are some tips to keep in mind for that next vacation:

Road trips

1. Keep the route simple.

Choose a destination that doesn’t require a lot of time in the car. If a long trip is unavoidable, split the journey with breaks and hotel stays.

2. Prepare for accidents.

Create an emergency supply equipped with a first aid kit, Ziploc bags, hand towels, a bucket, and other vital essentials that you deem fit.

3. Pack snacks.

Having quick to consume snacks and water on hand will help eliminate hunger until you arrive at your next stop or destination.

4. Bring entertainment.

Books, movies and music are just some ways to bring entertainment on the road. For older toddlers, pack a clipboard, coloring sheets and a Ziploc bag of crayons.

5. Pack light.

Avoid large or excess items that may take up valuable room, such as big strollers, tons of toys, etc. Instead, take an umbrella stroller and one or two of your child’s favorite possessions.

Hotel stays

1. Request a room on the ground floor.

Carrying luggage and children up and down elevators is time-consuming and busywork. Request a room on the ground floor for convenient access.

2. Take advantage of the amenities.

Whether that is free breakfast, an indoor pool or proximity to a park, depending on the length of your stay, these are great ways to save money and allow the kids to relieve energy.

3. Bring a comfort item.

Being away from home is hard. Bring your child’s special stuffed animal, pillow or blanket to provide them comfort when needed.

4. Talk to the front desk attendant.

Chat with the front desk attendant to learn more about the area, or if your keycard gives you access to discounts to local eateries and attractions. Plus, they are there to help with your stay needs.

5. Become a Best Western Rewards member.

Save up and on your trip when you become a BWR member. Enjoy earning points that can be used for future stays, access exclusive member rates and much more. Plus, free breakfast is a win.

Flying

1. Book a direct or longer layover flight.

This helps avoid spending so much time in the limited confinements of a plane and allows your child — and you — time to stretch out.

2. Align your takeoff time with nap time.

If possible, select a time that your child would usually go down for a nap to allow for a more comfortable and quieter flight.

3. Bathroom break before takeoff.

This reduces the time you need to leave your seats, move around other passengers and wait in line, plus allows your child to start their journey in comfort.

4. Use curbside check-in.

Avoid carrying all your belongings through the airport and utilize the curbside check-in kiosks to save time and energy.

5. Pack light.

Don’t pack that jogger stroller. Instead, see if your end destination provides them for free or for a small fee.