As a mom of two boys now firmly entrenched in their tweens, I vividly remember the bittersweet chaos of summer travel with small children. On one hand, there's the excitement of a well-deserved break, but on the other, the realisation that family travel doesn’t pause parenting responsibilities. The scenery changes, but the routines and responsibilities come along for the ride - often with an added layer of logistical stress.
And I’ve always believed that whether you’re packing for a weekend away or a two-week escape, the volume doesn’t really change when you’re traveling with little Sprouts!
The good news is that it does get easier. Ocean dips last a little longer, the playlists (moderately) diversify and - every now and then - the peaceful scenery rolls by in blissful silence.
With a bit of thoughtful preparation and the right family travel essentials, travelling with little ones doesn’t have to feel like an endurance test. It can be smooth, memorable and genuinely enjoyable for everyone. In this guide, I share my tried-and-tested family travel tips along with a handpicked selection of must-have products to help you breeze through your summer travels.
1. Start Then Young
If you’re a passionate explorer, introducing your little ones to family travel early can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a quick escape or an extended break, exposing them to new environments from a young age helps them develop adaptability and flexibility. Plus, when they’re small, trips are often more aligned with your schedule than theirs - so take advantage of this stage and enjoy the freedom while it lasts!
Must-Have Product:
One way to make early travel smoother is by ensuring your little Sprouts feel secure and comforted, even in unfamiliar surroundings. That’s where the Difrax LOVI Dynamic Pacifier comes in. Designed to mimic the natural feel of a mother’s breast, it provides a comforting sense of familiarity. Beyond comfort, it also supports the natural development of your baby’s palate and teeth, giving you one less thing to worry about while on the move.
2. Pack Smart
Packing for children often feels like an expedition, where every inch of suitcase space counts and chaos is always lurking. The trick? Focus travel-friendly essentials for kids, like portable snack containers with separate compartments and spill-proof sippy cups to keep little ones hydrated without the mess. These thoughtful additions do more than save space - they make family travel smoother, keep kids happy and reduce travel stress.
Must-Have Product:
The Difrax Non-Spill Cups are lifesavers for keeping little ones hydrated during family holidays. Their clever designs prevent spills and messes, making it perfect for use on airplanes, in the car or at your destination. With happy, hydrated kids, everyone wins!
3. Stick to Routines (As Much as Possible)
Even in a new environment, maintaining familiar routines can provide your little Sprouts with a comforting sense of stability. For instance, if you’re planning a dinner out, consider going earlier to align with their usual mealtime or bedtime rituals, allowing for a smooth transition back to put them down for the night. Keeping consistent nap times, bedtime routines and mealtime habits can help reduce meltdowns and make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
Must-Have Product:
For winding down after a busy day, the My Little Morphée sleep aid is a game-changer. It creates a calming bedtime environment, no matter where you are. And it’s small, compact and easy to cart around.
4. Night Comfort
Travelling often involves navigating the challenges of early morning departures, night flights, or late arrivals at unfamiliar destinations. These moments can be tiring and stressful, but having a familiar, comforting item on hand can make all the difference.
Must-Have Product:
The Difrax Glow-in-the-Dark Pacifier is perfect for these situations. Its gentle glow makes it easy to find in a darkened plane cabin, a dimly lit hotel room, or even the backseat during long road trips. Not only does it provide comfort and familiarity for your baby, but it also saves you from frantically searching for a dropped soother when everyone’s tired.
Tried-and-Tested Tip:
Pack two glow-in-the-dark pacifiers in your carry-on or nappy bag - one for immediate use and a spare for those inevitable ‘just in case’ moments.
5. Don’t Forget Yourself
Within the whirlwind of family travel, it’s easy to put your own needs last. But a calm, happy parent sets the tone for the whole family, so don’t forget to pack a few essentials just for you - whether it’s headphones, a good book, or a travel pillow for those rare moments to recharge.
Must-Have Product:
The Morphée sleep and relaxation aid for adults offers a seamless blend of meditation and relaxation to promote better sleep and reduce stress. With over 200 guided sessions, including breathing exercises, visualisations and soothing soundscapes, it’s the perfect tool for unwinding after an exhausting day of family travel or calming your mind during a midnight wake-up call. Compact and portable, the Morphée and Zen devices easily fit into your travel bag, helping you stay centred and well-rested wherever your journey takes you.
And when things inevitably veer into chaos, embrace it. No matter how much you plan, there will be spills, tantrums and unexpected detours. It’s all part of the adventure. Keep snacks handy, pick your battles and focus on the messy, magical memories you’re in between.
Written by Jacqui Mills
