How to Travel with Multiple Kids: 7 Tips for Parents

Traveling with one child can feel like a major undertaking — so what happens when you’re flying, driving, or navigating new places with multiple kids in tow? Whether you're wrangling toddlers or managing a mix of ages, the right strategy — and the right travel car seat — can make all the difference. These 7 parent-tested tips will help your next family trip feel a little more like a vacation and a little less like a logistical nightmare.

1. Choose the Best Travel Car Seat for Each Child

Not all travel car seats are created equal, especially when you’re managing different ages, sizes, and needs. Choose lightweight car seats that are FAA-approved, easy to carry through airports, and fit seamlessly into rental cars or rideshares.

  • For toddlers: Opt for a compact travel car seat like the WAYB Pico, which is forward-facing, folds small, and is perfect for planes and Ubers.

  • For older kids: Consider a travel booster seat. Just make sure that it is an approved seat by checking out some content from one of our favorite CPST’s like Safe-in-the-Seat or Jamie Grayson.


👉 Pro tip: The Pico only weighs 8 pounds and fits in an overhead bin—ideal when you're juggling more than one kid!


2. Pack by Person, Not by Category

Instead of packing a bag for clothes, another for snacks, and another for toys, try creating individual kits for each child. Include outfits, a snack stash, comfort items, and entertainment. This makes it easier to find what you need on the go—and to hand off a complete bag to another adult if you're splitting duties.


3. Stick with Compact Gear

Space matters when you’re managing multiple kids and carry-ons. That’s why Pico is the best choice for parents. It can even fit three - across in the back seat, compact gear gives you flexibility.


4. Plan Your Seating Strategy Early

Whether you’re flying or road tripping, map out where each child will sit ahead of time. If one child needs more attention or has motion sickness, place them within easy reach. For airplane travel, book seats together and double-check your airline’s policies on airplane car seats and FAA-approved car seats.


5. Use a Master Packing List (and Reuse It)

You’ll never regret having a detailed checklist that you tweak and reuse for every trip. Make sure it includes:

  • Snacks, bottles, and water

  • Medications and wipes

  • Diapers or potty training essentials

  • Entertainment (iPads, crayons, headphones)

  • Portable car seat and/or travel booster seat


Save a version for road trips, flights, and weekend getaways—your future self will thank you.


6. Keep Kids Involved in Planning

Letting kids help choose their travel toys or pick a snack for the plane gives them a sense of control. Older kids can even pack their own backpacks. Less whining, more cooperation.


7. Expect Chaos — and Build in Buffer Time

Delays, meltdowns, forgotten pacifiers — it’s all part of the adventure. When you're traveling with multiple children, build in extra time for everything: getting through security, bathroom breaks, and loading gear like your portable toddler seat or stroller into the car.

Traveling with multiple kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mindset — and the right car seats for travel — you can make lasting memories while staying safe and sane.