7 Tips for Holiday Travel With Kids (That Actually Make It Easier)
Holiday travel with little ones doesn’t have to be chaotic. With the right prep — and the right travel car seat — you can actually enjoy the ride. Whether you’re flying across the country or taking a quick road trip, these 7 tips for holiday travel with kids will help you get to your destination with more calm and less stress.
1. Use a Travel Car Seat That's Actually Made for Travel
Bulky car seats = tired arms before you even reach security.
A compact, portable travel car seat makes moving through airports so much easier.
The WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat is:
- FAA-approved
- Lightweight (8 lbs!)
- Foldable
- Easy to carry or clip to a bag
- Simple to install in airplanes, Ubers, and rental cars
For holiday crowds, it’s the ultimate hands-free, stress-free car seat solution.
2. Keep Carry-Ons Minimal With “The Big Three” Rule
When traveling with kids, the best carry-on is a light one.
Stick to the essentials — what we call The Big Three:
- Mess-free, easy-to-eat snacks like apples, carrots, and pouches from Cerebelly.
- Entertainment like a busy board, painters tape (trust us), downloaded videos.
- Comfort like child safe pain, allergy, and nausea medication, cozy objects like their favorite blanket or stuffy just make sure you don’t leave it behind.
Everything else? Check it.
This keeps airport time smooth, bags manageable, and your hands free for herding small humans.
3. Dress Kids in Comfy Layers
Flights are unpredictable — cold, warm, then cold again.
Layers keep kids comfortable the entire time.
Try:
- Soft leggings or joggers from Hanna Andersson
- A breathable shirt some of our favorites are from Carter’s
- A hoodie from the Gap
- A cozy travel blanket from Rumpl
Comfort = fewer complaints.
4. Turn Airport Time Into “Adventure Time”
Instead of trying to keep kids still before boarding, build in movement.
Try:
- Walking the terminal
- Eye Spy with luggage, carts, Plane-spotting
- Grabbing a fun snack like the Nooka pouch or a protein pack
- Doing a little pre-flight wiggle time and board last rather than first with your littles.
Kids who get energy out before boarding stay calmer during the flight.
5. Use a Slow Snack Rotation
Snacks double as time-fillers.
Give them slowly, one at a time, every 20–30 minutes.
A snack rotation helps:
- Prevent boredom
- Break up the flight
- Reduce meltdowns
- Keep kids in their seats longer (Pico helps with this too!)
Always bring more snacks than you think you’ll need — especially during holiday delays.
6. Prep Kids for Security Ahead of Time
Many kids feel uncertain at the security checkpoint.
A quick briefing helps tremendously.
Try:
- “Your bag will go on the belt but will come right back.”
- “Grownups go first; you’ll follow right after.”
- “We keep shoes on!” (if TSA Precheck)
- “Stuffed animals get their own special ride through the scanner.”
A calm, informed kid = a smooth, quick security experience.
7. Use Screens Strategically — Not Constantly
Screens can be magical tools when used at the right moments.
Save them for:
- Takeoff
- Landing
- Delays
- Tough moments
Download shows and movies ahead of time and pack child-friendly headphones.
Holiday WiFi is… not reliable.
Bonus Tip: Make Kids Responsible for Their Own Mini Backpack
Give each child a small backpack with:
- One comfort item
- One book
- One toy
- Their snacks
- Water bottle
It gives kids a sense of independence and reduces what you have to carry. Win-win.
You're Ready for Stress-Free Holiday Travel
Whether you’re headed to grandparents’ house or on a sunny escape, these tips — plus the right travel gear — make holiday travel smoother and more enjoyable.