Simplay3 Blog

Whether it’s your first baby or you’re traveling with two kids, successful family travel starts with a plan that handles the journey as well as the destination.

It's summertime and that means vacations! And if you have a toddler you might be dreading that long drive to the beach yet yearning for that sand in between your toes and sun on your skin. With these seven tips, you might be able to handle the long drive like a pro.

Pro Road Trip Tip: The "Comfort First" Rule Before you hit the road, check your toddler's car seat for "hot spots." In the summer, metal buckles can get scorching. Pro tip: Keep a small spray bottle of water or a light towel over the seat when you're parked at rest stops to keep the surface cool for when you get back in!

A Few Tips for Traveling with Toddlers

1. Get comfy

Nobody likes to be uncomfortable in a car, especially a toddler. Make sure to outfit your little one in comfy yet cool clothes. A great pair of cotton pajama pants and a t-shirt makes for the perfect traveling attire.

2. Drive overnight

The most rest-assured way to have a tantrum-proof drive is to drive when the little ones are snoozing. Do your normal bedtime routine of dinner, bath, and books, but instead of getting tucked into bed, tuck them into the car. This will keep them in a routine and hopefully, you will be able to slip them into bed once you get to your destination.

Driving during kids' sleep hours helps maintain a normal routine. To ensure a good baby sleep environment once you arrive at your hotel room or visit family, don't forget to pack a portable baby monitor and a familiar travel crib.

3. Don’t be afraid to get in the back

If you are lucky enough to be traveling with a partner or friend, don’t be afraid to jump in the back with your little one and give some one-on-one time. Your little one isn’t used to not getting the human contact they need throughout the day. A little hand hold or head rub will go a long way.

4. Organization 

Plan, plan, plan! When packing, place anything that you may need for the car in an easily accessible spot. Make sure everything is in reach and in sight. This will make it much easier and less stressful for you when you are looking for that specific snack or toy.

Plan, plan, plan! When packing, place anything that you may need for the car in an easily accessible spot. Make sure everything is in reach and in sight. This will make it much easier and less stressful for you when you are looking for that specific snack or toy.

The key to road trips is being able to pack light while keeping essentials handy. Your diaper bag should act as a mini aid kit, stocked with favorite snacks and must-haves for the entire time you're in the car.

5. Snack time

Speaking of snacks, they might be the most important of all. Whether it be healthy snacks, fun snacks, or full-blown packed lunches it’s good to have it all just in case, for you and your little one.

Expert Insight: The Mess-Free Strategy To keep the car clean, opt for "dry" snacks like crackers, grapes, or pouches with no-spill tops. Avoid sticky candies or crumb-heavy granola bars that turn the backseat into a mess trap by hour three!

6. Take breaks 

Take breaks when your toddler needs to, not necessarily when you need to. Little ones need to get energy out just as much, if not more than you do. Stop at playgrounds or parks and just let them wear themselves out. This also gives you time to get some fresh air and stretch your legs.

Safety Check: The 2-Hour Rule Experts recommend that toddlers and babies spend no more than 2 hours in a car seat at a time. Frequent stops aren't just for potty breaks—they are essential for your child's circulation and spinal health. Aim for a 15-minute "reset" every two hours!

7. Surprise time 

As many know, a toddler can be entertained for either 30 seconds or 30 minutes. One way to keep the entertainment going is to introduce small new toys or activities every hour of the trip. While playing with familiar toys will be comforting, there is nothing wrong with surprising them with something new to spark new ways to play.

To keep a toddler entertained with short attention spans, rotate kids toys every hour. While we love screen time or YouTube videos for long road trips, having tactile toys like the Simplay3 Carry & Go Track Table is a great idea to encourage active play.

For the perfect surprise either at the park on a break or at your summer destination, check out these travel friendly products from Simplay3.

The Carry & Go Track Table

Can’t leave the trains, trucks, and cars at home, can you? Pack the Carry & Go Train & Track Table and continue the fun in the sun on vacation. This track table is double-sided and all one piece so there are no pieces to connect and worry about.

Monster City Extreme Wheels Track 

For the monster truck lover in us all, there is nothing better than the Monster City Extreme Wheels Track with the dual-sided track for double the fun.

Planning a Long-Haul Flight?

If your next trip involves a plane rather than a car, the gear shifts slightly. For a long-haul flight, a super compact travel stroller is essential—one that is easily carried and fits in the carry on bin. Whether your child is a lap child or has their own seat, remember to pack a carry on bag with a window seat view in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions: Road Tripping with Toddlers

What is the 2-hour rule for toddlers in car seats?

The 2-hour rule suggests that children should not be in a car seat for longer than two hours in a 24-hour period. While long vacation drives often exceed this, making sure you stop every two hours to let them stretch, move, and get out of the "scrunched" position is vital for their safety and comfort.

How do I keep my toddler calm on a long car ride?

The key is sensory variety. Alternate between "active" toys (like the Simplay3 Carry & Go Track Table), quiet time with audiobooks, and healthy snacks. If they start to get fussy, a quick change of scenery—like moving a parent to the backseat—can work wonders.

What are the best mess-free snacks for a road trip?

Stick to "one-bite" items like blueberries, cheese cubes, or dry cereal. Avoid anything that melts (chocolate) or anything that requires a spoon, which is almost guaranteed to end up in the floor mats!

What should I pack for a hotel stay?

When staying in adjoining rooms, bring a white noise machine to help kids sleep through unfamiliar sounds. If your toddler is recently potty trained, pack extra pull ups just for the trip to avoid hotel room accidents.

How do I handle meal times on the go?

To keep meal times consistent, look for high chairs at rest stops or bring a portable booster. Always have bottled water and healthy eat-on-the-go options to avoid the "hangry" phase of the travel day.