Have Entertainment Available

When you’re traveling with kids, keeping them entertained is critical, especially on long flights, waiting at the airport, standing in long lines, or during long car rides. It can make the difference between a great trip and a miserable one. Entertainment doesn’t necessarily mean a smartphone, although a smartphone is a great option when traveling. Depending on their age, here are some great options to consider:

• Electronics: A phone, music player, or tablet is a great way to pass the time.
• Journal: Let them draw or write a travel journal. It’s a great way to enrich the trip and create an amazing souvenir.
• Card and Board Games: You can buy travel versions of the games you know and love (small, magnetic, special packaging).
• Road Trip Games: Check out our guide to road trip games you can play while driving or during free time.
• Dolls They Love: Familiar toys can provide comfort and entertainment.

Make sure to have chargers, headphones, spare/backup batteries, and adaptors. If you take electronics, don’t count on Wi-Fi or mobile plans. Make sure to download apps, music, movies, or TV shows to the device before your trip. You never know when you’ll be without Wi-Fi, and it’s almost guaranteed your kids will desperately need a new app or episode when that happens.