Parents with kids under five years old have a special set of needs when traveling, and also some nice opportunities for travel not tied to a school schedule.
The winds of change in the travel industry have brought many conveniences, amenities, and programs for babies and toddlers; and many resorts, cruises, theme parks, put out the welcome mat. Remember, though, that babies and toddlers are easily delighted: nothing fancy's needed, to have a magical time.
Most theme parks offer some areas and attractions designed to delight their youngest visitors, but some go much further: some theme parks devote major sections to the wee set; others are entirely designed for toddlers and young kids.
Preschoolers aren't neglected on the high seas these days: while it's standard for cruise ships to offer extensive programs for ages three or four and up, some cruise lines are making special efforts with the younger set. Check out some sample programs at the Royal Caribbean cruise line.
Travel with a baby involves extra logistics -- but then, so does life with baby at home. These days, more resorts offer infant care or special amenities; meanwhile, rental companies will deliver all that baby stuff to a hotel or grandma's house. Also: tips for plane rides with babies, special travel season for families with preschoolers, more...
Many kids clubs at all inclusive resorts are the "friendly little club" type, for ages 4 to 12; but at some resorts, you'll find mega-programs, grouped by ages, and perhaps a nursery and programs for toddlers and teens as well.
Practical instructions on snacks, strollers, what to bring on the plane, etc.
Let's face it, travel can be a strain on little kids. See tips for avoiding toddler tantrums on family trips (or anytime).
Airport Baby Lounge - Amsterdam
At the end of the summer, families with schoolkids head home for Back to School; and families with preschoolers can enjoy special perks in September, offered by several big players in the family travel scene.
About's Guide for Adventure Travel has the scoop on a new line of gear from Fisher Price for the family who wants to stay active in the outdoors with baby along: kids' utulity vehicle (good for dirt trails), Potty-On-The-Go, and more.
A website dedicated to travel with the Diaper Crowd: info about resorts, tips, health, gear...
You know your baby or toddler is going to explore every inch of the place! Practical tips for keeping baby safe.
Ideas for travel with wee kids. Luckily, the travel industry is dreaming up new conveniences and perks.
"Magical Beginnings" is a special focus on the littlest visitors, at both Disneyland and Disney World. In late summer/early fall, Disney World has a prime-time for travel with toddlers, "Little Ones Travel Time", with special events and amenities.
This mid-sized all-inclusive resort in Jamaica deserves special mention for parents with babies and toddlers: each family has their own friendly vacation nanny during their stay. Many families request the same nanny year after year.
Travel With Baby means Travel With Stuff: luckily, some companies offer services so that you can lug less. Some will rent you strollers, high-chairs, carseats, cribs, etc; some will deliver diapers, formula, and so on, right to where you're staying.
enjoy a relaxing getaway before baby arrives: tips about what to expect in a Babymoon Package, plus some health and air travel concerns.
Enjoy a relaxing getaway before baby arrives: find Babymoon Packages in dozens of destinations.
