Travelling with a Child

While travelling with a child (ages 2–12) is easier than with a baby, it still involves quite a few constraints.

Where to Go and What Types of Trips or Activities?

From the age of 2 or 3, a child gains some independence compared to a baby, so a wider range of destinations—including long-haul ones—becomes possible. That said, risky countries, those with challenging conditions, or difficult environments should still be avoided. Even as they grow, children remain sensitive to high altitudes (above 2,500–3,000 m) and extreme cold or heat.

By adapting your trip and pace to the child, you can enjoy all kinds of journeys and a broad range of activities. You can travel with a backpack, by bike, using public transport, on treks, for winter sports, by the sea or in the mountains, or even embark on longer trips or a round-the-world adventure. The key is to adapt to the youngest traveller.

About School

For you to expand: The eternal question for those travelling long-term or outside school holidays.

Preparing for the Trip

For you to expand: From paperwork to specific equipment or a child’s first-aid kit, what should you pack?

Documents and Paperwork

Equipment

Transport and Accommodation

For you to expand: Car, plane, bus, train—how to manage transport best, and what type of accommodation to choose? What discounts can you expect?

Transport

Accommodation

On the Ground

The Right Pace

One of the most important things when travelling with young children is finding the right pace for your trip. Avoid moving too quickly or changing locations too often, so the child doesn’t lose their bearings, but don’t go too slowly either, or boredom may set in. The same goes for daily schedules—avoid too many tiring days or early starts. If possible, plan intermediate rest stops so the child (and parents) can recharge.

For daily activities, don’t overpack the schedule or choose overly complicated outings. Every day, the child needs downtime to play and unwind.

Also, plan and alternate activities that the whole family can enjoy. While adults might appreciate visiting a monument or museum, a child will just as happily spend time at the zoo, on the beach, or playing in a public park. It’s a good idea to explain the day’s plan at the start, ideally ending with an activity the child will enjoy. Everyone will need to compromise—parents might sometimes feel frustrated for not doing everything they’d hoped without their kids.

When it comes to accommodation, some children may feel unsettled by changing rooms every night or so. If possible, arrive at each new hotel in the early or mid-afternoon so the child has time to adjust to their surroundings. If staying in a city, a short return to the hotel for a nap or before dinner can help maintain a good rhythm.

Dos and Don’ts

Dressing children in bright colours makes them easier to spot in a crowd. As a precaution, a piece of paper in their pocket with their name, the hotel’s address, and your email can be useful if they get lost. Some parents even give their child a whistle to call for help if needed.

Always carry a few games to pass the time (cards, crayons, books, a console, etc.), plus some sweets, which can be great for boosting morale if needed. Also, pack some snacks and, most importantly, drinks.

Children pick up on their parents’ stress, anxiety, doubts, and fears. If the trip isn’t going smoothly or there are setbacks, try not to show it too much. Stay confident in your attitude and choices.

Health and Nutrition

Two key concerns for children before, during, and after travel.

Nutrition

After the age of two, children generally no longer need baby food and can eat more or less the same as adults. However, be cautious about food while travelling. In many countries, opt for bottled water (advice that applies to adults too) and prioritise fresh foods or those that appear to meet hygiene standards (essential for ice cream or fruit juices). With young children, avoid overly local eateries and dishes, as well as anything too spicy.

In general, children will discover new flavours and foods they’re not used to at home while travelling. It can be helpful to explain what’s on their plate. As a last resort, you can always fall back on universal staples like pasta, plain rice, chips, or even the occasional McDonald’s.

Remember that children, like adults, need to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. Prioritise bottled water, with soft drinks or fresh fruit juices (if they seem safe) as occasional options.

Lastly, if stomach issues arise, a small medication for this purpose, along with a diet of rice and cola, can help restore gut health (this works for adults too). Once they’re feeling better, gradually reintroduce normal foods while avoiding anything that might cause a relapse.

At the Restaurant

On holiday, meals are often eaten out, which children don’t always enjoy, especially if there’s a long wait. Occasionally, a picnic can be a more fun option. Otherwise, try to choose less crowded restaurants or go at the start of service when there are fewer people. A table on the terrace also gives children more space to play than indoors. Bring some distractions like books, colouring supplies, cards, or a gaming console.

For the menu, always ask if there’s a children’s menu. If not, there’s no need to order a full meal—one dish and a bit of sharing from the parents’ plates is usually enough.

Health

For you to expand: Specific precautions.