Our top practical tips for parents to plan toddler friendly holidays.
Trying to relax on holiday with your toddler throwing massive tantrums every chance they get can sometimes feel more exhausting than the holiday itself. Don’t worry, we’ve put together six practical and realistic travel tips that will help keep you calm, prepared and ready to enjoy your toddler friendly holidays.
There’s nothing like an end-of-year break to unwind before heading into the new year. But planning a holiday with a toddler aged one to five can be tough. You can pack snacks, toys and every essential imaginable, yet travelling with a little human always brings unexpected challenges.
No need to panic though. These 6 tips will not only help you stay sane, but also allow you to enjoy your holiday and still get some time to relax.
Related: Affordable Family Health Insurance: It’s a Family Matter!
How To Plan Toddler Friendly Holidays
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Choose your vacation destination wisely
Travelling with toddlers is a totally different experience compared to travelling with your partner or friends. When your child is still a baby, holidays are often easier. They nap anywhere, travel in a carrier and tag along with little effort.
Toddlers are a different story. They’re energetic, curious and have routines that matter. This means you need a toddler-friendly holiday destination. Beaches, kid-friendly resorts and open outdoor spaces are always better than busy sightseeing trips or museum-heavy itineraries.
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Think about the sleeping arrangements
Sleep is everything when it comes to toddlers. Before booking accommodation, make sure it suits your child’s sleep routine.
If your toddler sleeps in their own room at home, try to find a place with an extra bedroom or enough space for a portable cot. This helps prevent confusion, bedtime battles and middle-of-the-night play sessions.
A portable cot is an easy, affordable way to create a familiar sleep environment wherever you go.
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Get a room with a balcony or outdoor space
Gone are the days when you only used a hotel room to sleep. With nap schedules and early bedtimes in the mix, you’ll spend more time in your room than you expect.
One of our top tips for toddler friendly holidays is getting a room with a balcony, small patio or even a safe little garden gives your toddler space to burn off extra energy without you needing to leave the accommodation. It also gives you a moment to breathe while they play safely nearby.
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Don’t torture yourself with daily restaurant outings
Toddlers and restaurants… we all know how that can go.
Family-friendly restaurants can be fun, but eating out every night is tiring for both you and your child. Instead, mix things up by ordering in, having a picnic at your accommodation or making use of braai facilities if available.
This takes the pressure off mealtimes and keeps everyone happier.
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Skip the fancy vacation outfits
Instagram may have you thinking your toddler needs an adorable matching outfit for every day of the holiday. But the truth is, these outfits usually end up dirty, uncomfortable or lost.
Choose comfort and practicality over Pinterest-perfect looks. Your toddler will feel better, move easier and last longer through busy holiday days.
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Consider babysitter or childcare options
Toddler friendly holidays are rewarding, but also exhausting, especially if you have more than one. A break isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
Some families choose to bring their nanny along or invite a relative to help. Others look for accommodation that offers babysitting services or holiday clubs. These can give your toddler fun, supervised activities while you enjoy a well-deserved moment to relax.
Just keep in mind that bringing your nanny can be costly, and travelling with relatives isn’t everyone’s ideal scenario, so weigh your options.
A final reminder for parents travelling with toddlers
Your holiday may not be the most relaxing one you’ve ever had, and yes, there will be tantrums, missed naps and messy moments. But toddler friendly holidays spent watching your little one splash in the water, play with new friends and discover new experiences makes every tough moment worth it.
These are the memories your family will cherish.
Read next: 5 Diabetes Tips During the Festive Season
Yours in family-friendly healthcare,
The Oneplan Team
