Whether you're planning a beach vacation, a cross-country road trip, visiting family, or hopping on a plane for a summer adventure, traveling with kids can feel like a vacation in itself. From endless snack requests to keeping everyone entertained between destinations, a little planning can make all the difference. Here are our favorite family travel tips to help make your summer adventures as smooth (and fun!) as possible.
Quick Guide: Family Travel Tips
- Pack only the essentials and organize each child's items separately.
- Bring healthy snacks and drinks for long journeys.
- Download entertainment before travelling.
- Build breaks into your itinerary instead of over-scheduling.
- Protect children from the sun and stay hydrated.
- Check airline and TSA rules before flying.
- Stay flexible. Some of the best travel memories are unplanned!
1. Pack the Essentials (Without Overpacking!)
It can be tempting to pack for every possible scenario, but keeping things organized will make traveling much easier. Before you head out, make sure you've packed:
- Plenty of changes of clothes
- Sunscreen and hats
- Reusable water bottles
- A small first aid kit
- Favorite comfort toys or blankets
- Healthy snacks
- Activities for the journey
Packing cubes or individual bags for each child can also help you quickly find what you need without unpacking an entire suitcase. Before travelling, it's worth reviewing the American Academy of Pediatrics' summer safety advice, including recommendations on sunscreen, hats, hydration, and protecting babies from direct sunlight: AAP Summer Sun Safety Guide.
2. Snacks Are Your Secret Weapon
Anyone who's traveled with kids knows one thing for certain—someone is always hungry. Packing familiar snacks helps keep little ones happy between meals and can save time (and money) at airports, gas stations, or roadside stops. KendaKids Ready-to-Drink Complete Nutrition Shakes are also a great option for busy travel days. They're perfect for tossing into your cooler or travel bag, making it easy to give your child a nutritious drink whether you're driving to your next destination, exploring a new city, or enjoying a day at the beach.
3. Keep the Entertainment Coming
Long journeys can feel even longer for kids. Download movies, TV shows, music, or audiobooks before you leave home, and don't forget classic travel games like:
- I Spy
- License plate bingo
- Coloring books
- Sticker books
- Travel card games
- "Would You Rather?" questions
Introducing something new every hour or so helps keep excitement levels high throughout the journey.
4. Build Flexibility Into Your Plans
One of the biggest travel mistakes is trying to fit too much into every day. Kids often need breaks to recharge, so allow time for playground stops, pool breaks, or simply relaxing back at your hotel. Some of the best vacation memories come from the unexpected moments—not rushing from one attraction to the next.
5. Dress for Every Kind of Weather
Summer weather can change quickly depending on where you're traveling. Whether you're exploring the mountains, spending the day at the beach, or visiting a theme park, pack lightweight layers, comfortable shoes, rain jackets, and extra outfits so you're prepared for whatever the day brings.
6. Flying With Kids? Plan Ahead
Air travel doesn't have to be stressful. A few simple tips can make the experience much smoother:
- Check in online before arriving at the airport.
- Pack snacks in your carry-on.
- Bring refillable water bottles.
- Keep chargers, wipes, and a spare outfit within easy reach.
- Allow extra time so you're never rushing through security.
A calm start often sets the tone for the rest of the journey. If you're flying with babies or young children, remember that baby food, formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and medically necessary liquids have different screening rules from the standard 3.4 oz (100 ml) liquid limit. Check the latest guidance before you travel, such as the TSA Traveling with Children & Baby Food Guidelines.
7. Expect the Unexpected
Even the best-planned vacations don't always go according to plan. There might be spills, tired little travelers, forgotten toys, or unexpected detours—but that's all part of family travel. Try to focus on the moments that matter most: discovering somewhere new together, sharing laughs along the way, and making memories your family will talk about for years to come.
Looking for family-friendly adventures? National parks, beaches, and local attractions often provide free activity guides and family itineraries to help you make the most of your trip.
Useful Resources
Here's to a Summer Full of Adventure
Whether you're heading to the beach, visiting grandparents, exploring a national park, or taking your very first family road trip, we hope your summer is filled with unforgettable memories. Wherever your adventures take you, KendaKids is here to help make every journey just that little bit easier.
