Stress-Free Travel with Kids Ages 0–5: Tips by Age + Must-Have Products

Stress-free travel

Whether you’re flying, road-tripping, or staying somewhere new, here are tried-and-true travel tips broken down by age group

Traveling with young kids can feel overwhelming—but with the right tools and prep, it can be fun and memorable (in a good way!). Whether you’re flying, road-tripping, or staying somewhere new, here are tried-and-true travel tips broken down by age group—from newborns to preschoolers. Plus, I’ve included product suggestions that make traveling smoother for everyone.

Newborn to 6 Months

This age group is actually easier to travel with than most people expect! Babies this age sleep a lot and are usually happy snuggled up close to you.

Travel Tips:

• Stick as closely as you can to your baby’s feeding and nap routine.

• Use a baby carrier to keep your hands free at the airport or while sightseeing.

• Pack extra clothes for both you and baby in your carry-on (blowouts and spit-ups will happen).

Recommended Products:

• SlumberPod Privacy Pod – A game-changer for hotel rooms or shared spaces. Creates a dark, cozy sleep nook over a travel crib.
  👉 Check it out here

• Hatch Rest Mini or Hatch Restore 2 – Portable white noise to drown out hotel hallway noise.
  👉 Find it on Amazon

• Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light – Easy to set up and super lightweight.
  👉 Shop here

• Ergobaby Omni 360 Carrier – Great for airports, naps on the go, and hands-free walking.
  👉 Buy on Amazon

  6–18 Months

Once babies are mobile, travel gets a little trickier—but it’s still doable with the right prep!

Travel Tips:

• Plan flights or drives around naps if possible.

• Bring a few familiar books and toys.

• Use snacks and novelty toys for distraction on long stretches.

Recommended Products:

• Travel Blackout Blinds (like the Tommee Tippee Portable Blackout Blind) – Create darkness anywhere for better naps and overnight sleep.
  👉 See on Amazon

• SlumberPod – Still highly recommended through toddlerhood for better sleep in unfamiliar places.
  👉 Get it here

• JetKids by Stokke BedBox – Turns an airplane seat into a toddler bed (and doubles as a ride-on suitcase).
  👉 Explore on Amazon

• Munchkin Snack Catchers – Minimizes mess during travel snacks.
  👉 Find on Amazon

18 Months–3 Years

Toddlers are curious, energetic, and strong-willed—so flexibility is key!

Travel Tips:

• Let your toddler have small jobs (e.g., carry their backpack).

• Stick to 1–2 daily “anchor” routines (like nap and bedtime).

• Offer choices (“Do you want to sit by the window or the aisle?”) to help them feel in control.

Recommended Products:

• GB Pockit+ All-Terrain Stroller – One of the best compact strollers for travel. It folds small enough to fit in overhead bins.
  👉 Shop here

• SlumberPod + Travel Crib Combo – Keeps toddlers from climbing out and gives everyone a better night’s sleep.
  👉 SlumberPod + Travel Crib

• Busy Boards or Quiet Books – Great for plane rides or long drives.
  👉 Find on Amazon

• Refillable Water Bottles (like Contigo Kids) – Helps keep them hydrated on the go.
  👉 Buy here

3–5 Years (Preschoolers)

Preschoolers are more flexible and can be great travel companions—but they still thrive on structure.

Travel Tips:

• Prep them with books or videos about your trip.

• Create a simple daily routine (breakfast, outing, rest, play).

• Build in downtime to avoid overstimulation and meltdowns.

Recommended Products:

• Trunki Ride-On Suitcase – A fun way to carry their own stuff and burn some energy in airports.
  👉 See here

• Amazon Fire Kids Tablet (with headphones) – Download their favorite shows and games for travel days.
  👉 Check it out

• Foldable Travel Potty (like OXO Tot 2-in-1) – Perfect for road trips or places without easy toilet access.
  👉 Buy on Amazon

• Sticker Books & Mess-Free Coloring (like Melissa & Doug Water Wow!) – Great quiet-time activities.
  👉 Shop here

Final Tips for All Ages:

• Pack familiar sleep items (sleep sack, blanket, lovey).

• Bring extra snacks, diapers, and wipes.

• Keep your expectations flexible—some days will go smoothly, others won’t, and that’s okay.

• Try to find or book flights that land in the afternoon at your destination

✨ The goal isn't perfection—it's connection, fun, and a few great memories along the way. Sometimes the moments you remember are the ones that are the hardest to deal with in the moment.