Can’t believe I’ve entered the phase of writing about traveling abroad with a toddler! Over a decade ago, this blog began as my outlet as a single student exploring Europe, couchsurfing, and hunting for budget travel tips. A few years later, it evolved into tales of couple travel, then honeymoon escapes. And now? It’s all about the joys and challenges of traveling with a little one. Time really does fly, doesn’t it?
Traveling abroad with a toddler for the first time is an adventure unlike any other, as I’ve finally got to experience 😉 . It’s exciting, exhausting, and full of surprises – both good and… well, let’s call them character-building.
When I look back on my first trip abroad with my little one, there are a few lessons I wish someone had told me before I packed my bags. So, here are my 5 top tips for making the journey smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your tiny travel companion.
1. Be Less Ambitious About Ticking Checkboxes
I’ll admit it: I’m a planner. I love having a detailed itinerary with every museum, landmark, and café plotted out. Before becoming a parent, I considered a trip successful if I managed to stick to 70% of my plan. But when you’re traveling with a toddler, they’re the ones running the show – and they’re blissfully unaware of your checklist.
I’ve had moments where my toddler fell asleep just as we arrived at her favorite toy shop. Or the time we spent 30 minutes hunting for a family-friendly restaurant because nothing nearby worked for her picky palate. At first, I found these delays frustrating. But I soon learned to let go of the pressure to check every box. Instead, I embraced the slower pace and enjoyed the journey.
You know what? Slow traveling with a toddler is incredibly fulfilling. The joy is in the quality moments, not the quantity of attractions visited.
2. Go for Practical Clothing Style
Before kids, I’d carefully curate my outfits for travel photos. Now, my wardrobe is all about practicality. When you’re squatting to help your toddler find ants, chasing them down cobblestone streets, or holding them after a tumble, comfortable clothes become your best friend.
I’ve traded in clutches for a trusty backpack packed with essentials: snacks, wipes, and spare clothes for the inevitable spills. Comfortable shoes? Non-negotiable. They’ve saved me from sore feet and kept me ready for all the unexpected adventures toddlers bring. Surprisingly, this shift to practicality has made me enjoy my trips even more. Feeling good in what you wear is liberating, and it’s one less thing to worry about.
3. Taking Cute Photos and Videos Is Fun, But Not Everything
I used to obsess over getting the perfect travel shots. But traveling with a toddler has taught me to focus on living in the moment. Sure, I still snap a few photos, but I’m more about capturing genuine moments than staged poses.
Toddlers have a knack for finding magic in the mundane. My little one once spent 15 minutes marveling at a strange flower on a random street corner. Moments like these remind me that travel isn’t just about tourist hotspots. It’s about experiencing the world through your child’s curious eyes.
I take fewer photos now, but the memories I’ve made feel richer. And that’s a trade-off I’ll take any day.
4. Be Prepared to Pay Extra for Your Toddler’s Comfort
Before kids, I was the queen of budget travel. Cheap hostels? Night flights? Street food? Sign me up! But when traveling with a toddler, comfort takes precedence over cost.
I’ve learned to pay for a hotel in the city center rather than a cheaper one miles away. Why? It’s safer, more convenient, and cuts down on travel time that can tire out my little one. Similarly, I’ve come to appreciate flights scheduled at decent hours and family-friendly services that come with a higher price tag. These choices make the trip far less stressful and far more enjoyable.
Lesson learned: Budget accordingly and prioritize comfort!
5. Don’t Forget Self-Care
Here’s a hard truth I learned on a trip to Taipei lately: I spent the entire vacation focused on my toddler’s wants (the zoo, the playgrounds, the toy museum, and the like) and skipped all the places I’d been excited to visit. By the last day, I felt a pang of disappointment.
Next time, I’ll make sure to include a few spots that I’m personally excited about. Happy parents make for happy kids, after all! And let’s not forget packing my own essentials – because I’ve also been guilty of leaving behind my sunscreen and favorite book in favor of extra diapers and toys. Balancing their needs with yours isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for everyone’s happiness.
Traveling Abroad with a Toddler
Traveling abroad with a toddler might not look like the glamorous, spontaneous adventures you had pre-kids, but it’s a different kind of wonderful. It’s about embracing the chaos, finding joy in the small things, and creating memories as a family. With a bit of preparation, a lot of patience, and the willingness to go with the flow, your trip can be as rewarding as it is unforgettable.
As for me, my toddler’s giggles and wide-eyed wonder made it all worth it in the end. I’m fully prepared now to travel abroad with her again and again!
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