Traveling with kids this summer? Parenting influencers weigh in on how to be prepared
Summer vacation time is here, and whether you're heading out by plane, train or packing up the car for a road trip, traveling with kids can be equal parts exciting and exhausting.
From unpredictable schedules to in-transit meltdowns, it's no secret that family travel comes with its own unique set of challenges.
That's why "Good Morning America" tapped a team of trusted parenting experts to share their tried-and-true tips for making travel with children smoother, more manageable, and maybe even enjoyable.
Check it all out below!
Get more shopGMA! Sign up for our newsletter, and follow on Instagram and TikTok.
By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave ABCNews.com and Goodmorningamerica.com, and these e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies. ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. SOME PRICES ARE DYNAMIC AND MAY CHANGE FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Have questions about ordering or a purchase? Click here.
On the go
"Best practice is to purchase an extra airplane seat, even if your child is under the age of 2. And buckle your kiddo up in that airplane seat in their car seat. It's the safest way for your child to ride," Michelle Pratt of @SafeInTheSeat told "GMA".
Additionally, the parenting expert agreed that a good stroller is crucial for travel. If you have older children, using a product like Mockingbird Riding Board makes airport navigation a breeze.
As for in-flight entertainment, Deena Margolin from @BigLittleFeelings said, "If you're going to be using headphones with an iPad on the airplane for the first time, make sure you practice at home in safety and comfort where they can get used to seeing how they work."
These headphones from Amazon are a fun way to add a little flair to a child's travel necessity:
CozyPhones Kids Headphones Volume Limited with Thin Speakers and Super Soft Fleece Headband
- $17.99
- $19.99
- Amazon
Traveling by car? "Make summer car kits," said Susie Allison, also known as @busytoddler on Instagram. "Put a few items in bins to help make you ready for spontaneous summer play. In my car, I have three bins, one for snacks, one for outdoor toys, and one for swimming gear."
Sleeping while traveling
When it comes to sleeping away from home, our team of parenting experts have numerous tips.
"The more it feels like home, the better they're going to sleep. So bringing those familiar items that can make it feel like what they know. Portable blackout blinds to darken the room, a sound machine, a familiar sleep sack, etc.," Cara Dumaplin from @takingcareofbabies shared with "GMA".
Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtain Shades with Suction Cups
- $19.24
- $23.18
- Amazon
For extra-long flights, our experts suggest a travel bed to help your kids rest during the flight.
Additionally, products like sound machines and slumber pods can pack easily and help younger children sleep soundly.
Staying away from home
Holly Choi, also known as @safebeginnings on Instagram, added some safety tips to consider during any hotel stay.
"Look under furniture in a hotel room -- beds, coffee tables and more," Choi said. "This is eye level for crawling children and for naturally curious babies and toddlers. We want to prevent them from finding anything that could pose a hazard."
In case your travels are taking you to the local pool or beach, Myriam Sandler, creator at @MotherCould, suggested tips on an easier way to apply sunscreen: using a foundation brush.
"No more sunscreen battles. Keep your hands clean and kids love the way it feels," Sandler said.
In the event of an emergency this summer -- or a lost child -- Allison also shared a few things to keep in mind.
"Number one, get loud. Tell everyone you've lost your child and make sure everyone starts looking for that child," she said. "Number two, give out a description. Loudly. Tell everyone what your child looks like. 'I'm looking for a 5-year-old boy with red shoes and a blue shirt.' Number three, talk to your child before the event and make sure they know what to do. Tell them if they realize they're lost [to] stop moving, look for a parent with kids or find an event worker."
Shop more 'GMA' picks:
