Traveling with my kids has always been a priority for me, especially when they’re still little. My daughter and I had countless adventures together when she was an infant; her easygoing nature made her the perfect travel companion. I thought the same would be true for my son. I was mistaken.
I embarked on my first trip with him at just three months old, and it was a disaster. Having just recovered from a C-section, combined with a cramped aisle seat and the challenges of breastfeeding on a packed flight, left me feeling overwhelmed. That six-hour flight from California to Florida felt like a marathon, and I swore off traveling with him for good.
However, just a month later, the chance to visit Hawaii arose. I couldn’t resist, despite my previous experience. I was traveling with family this time, which made a world of difference. Their support allowed me to truly engage with my son, reminding me of the joys of traveling with young kids.
Many believe it’s best to wait until kids are older to travel, citing concerns over expenses for experiences they won’t remember. Yet, when I look at our Hawaiian vacation photos, filled with memories from that trip, I feel joy. I recall waking up early to nurse him while watching the sunrise, and his adorable expression when he tasted pineapple for the first time. Even if he won’t remember our time there, the memories I hold are priceless.
I asked a few fellow moms to share their thoughts on why traveling with little ones is worthwhile. Their insights might just inspire you to book a trip with your little one soon!
Reasons to Travel with Young Children
- Exposure to New Experiences: Traveling frequently helps children adapt to new environments. My kids are naturally flexible when we go places, a trait I attribute to our many adventures together while they were small.
- Feels Like Traveling Alone: When you have a small child, you can use a carrier or stroller, allowing you to move around freely. As Jamie B. puts it, you can get the baby settled and then go about your own plans.
- No Expectations: Little ones don’t have opinions about itineraries. If you’re looking for a stress-free getaway, taking a toddler means they’re happy to go with the flow, as Natasha M. points out.
- Easier Future Travels: Introducing travel early on sets the stage for smoother trips as they grow. Sarah T. has been traveling with her kids since infancy, and now that they are older, their travel experiences are seamless.
- Mental Health Benefits: Traveling can be a breath of fresh air for parents too. Emily R. started adventures with her child at 4 months old and found that it significantly boosted her mental well-being. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all it takes to lift your spirits.
This summer, I took my kids on a challenging journey to visit family on the East Coast. With long flights and a road trip, it was a strenuous experience. Yet, witnessing my toddler’s delight in meeting family and his curiosity during our outings made the effort worthwhile.
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In conclusion, while the memories of young children may fade, the experiences and bonding moments created during those travels can last a lifetime.