Let's first talk about the hotel .  When staying with kids in a hotel, the most important factors to consider are not necessarily the thread count of the sheets  or the stunning view of the room.  It is more practical to arrange your accommodations to meet your itinerary. 

• You may want to stay near the top spots  that you will plan to visit, making commuting time between places much easier on the family.
• Investigate family tours .  They cater to your children's interests and make your planning a breeze. 
• Check to see if there are family-friendly restaurants near the hotel, and research the neighbourhood. 
• Look for a hotel staff that is known to be welcoming to families!  Often these kinds of hotels will provide cribs, babysitting services , in-room kitchens, and more. 

Check out our Guide to Lodging to learn more about booking a room and to pick up some great travel tips!

You will also want to consider modes of transportation.  When travelling with children of all ages, you want them to be safe and comfortable at all times.  Think about what sort of transportation will work best for your family and your itinerary.  

• Kids just love trains , as they are often intrigued by how they work and how fast they go, making this a great option for travel. 
• Travel by sea is often fun for families because there is something for everyone!  Look at the Guide to Cruises for information on cruise lines, ports, and prices. 
• Flying with children can sometimes be tricky.  The high pressure often hurts their ears and a long flight can feel like torture.  If this is your mode of travel, don't worry, there are ways around the stressors.  You will first want to find an airline that provides a number of flights and departure times to your destination, as being delayed with children is never fun.  Also consider the remedies to ease any problems with motion sickness  or ear popping .  
• For some, standard travel by car may be the best way to go.  You can feel safe and comfortable by using your own car seat , and don't forget travel toys  and games  for the ride!  If you are planning to rent a car in another region, look at our Guide to Car Rentals before you book. 

Sickness and Health

• Bringing children's medicine  along on your trip is always a wise idea.  Consider taking a portable first aid kit  as well for any scrapes along the way.  Be sure to pack any medication for allergies  just in case.  It's better to be safe than sorry.  

The Nappy Bag

• For travel with babies and toddlers, pack the nappy bag  with everything you will need -- nappies ,ointment ,wipes ,formula ,bottles ,sippy cups .  Using instant rice ,instant hot cereal , or anything that only needs water, you can use this kind of food no matter where you are.    

Toiletries

• Travel bath sets  and children's tooth paste  are just a few of the important things that a small child will need.  Look for water proof bags  to put shampoos  and other liquids in, but keep in mind that air travel regulation sizes have changed.  

Clothing Basics

• Think about where you are going and what type of dress your child will need.  Be sure to pack comfortable outfits  for travel days, and bring a few dressy items  just in case.  Safe and comfortable shoes  are a MUST, as are extra socks  and undies .  Pack a raincoat  or poncho  even if it's not rainy season; weather can be unpredictable and you don't want to hear the complaining that goes with being wet and cold.

Entertainment

• Bringing along a few books ,toys , and games  from home is never a bad idea.  For longer trips, surprise your child with a few new toys, as the novelty will keep a child occupied; otherwise, a few favourites from home will do.  Look for travel sized fun  and bring along a small stuffed animal , as they make great travel companions.

Swim Suit

• Though it might seem obvious, people DO forget.  Please remember to bring along one of the most important components... the swim suit .  

Water Shoes

• In public places you want to keep your child's feet clean and safe.  Look for water shoes  with a rubber sole for the best protection against slips.   

Water Safety

• Little ones will need to be safe around the water, and you can help them by bringing along a tube ,arm bands , or other swim trainer  to wear.  

Water Toys

• Let them have some fun!  Bring along a shovel and pail  for the beach or any floating water toys  for the pool, and watch their imaginations at work.  

Towels

• Avoid the post-water chill and bring along your own towels .  There might not always be enough provided at the pool!  And, you can also use these towels to claim your spot.