Easter is such a special time to celebrate as a family, whether you're heading to a relative’s house or going on a camping adventure.. But let’s be honest, travelling with kids can feel a little overwhelming. The good news? With some thoughtful planning and a sprinkle of creativity, you can make Easter travel the kind of memory you’ll all smile about for years to come. Here are our favourite tips to keep kids happy and parents (mostly) stress-free while hitting the road or skies this Easter.
Pack Smart, Pack Happy
Whether you're traveling by car, plane, or train, a well-packed bag can make all the difference. Start with a small "go bag" for each child, filled with essentials like:
- Snacks Galore: Pre-pack single-serving portions of their favorite snacks—think crackers, dried fruits, string cheese, and muesli bars. Bonus points for adding a few chocolate eggs or jellybeans as holiday treats!
- Comfort Items: A favourite stuffed animal, blanket, or pillow can work wonders for keeping little ones cozy and calm.
- Change of Clothes: Accidents happen. Having an extra outfit (or two) for each child within reach can save the day.
- Surprise Toys or Books: Tuck a small "new-to-them" toy, book, or activity into their bag to pull out mid-journey. Think colouring-in pads, puzzles, or sticker books with an Easter theme.
For parents, make sure your travel essentials include wet wipes, a basic first-aid kit, and chargers for all those devices. Trust us, nothing derails on-the-go happiness faster than a dead tablet!
Entertainment is Key
Keeping kids entertained during travel often feels like half the battle. Here’s how to keep those little hands and minds busy:
- Games to Go: Classics like "I Spy," the license plate game, or guessing games are perfect for car rides. Print out Easter-themed scavenger hunt checklists for added fun!
- Screen Time with a Twist: If you’re allowing some screen use, why not download Easter shows, movies, or apps ahead of time? There are plenty of kid-friendly options that tie into the holiday.
- Crafts-on-the-Move: Bring along small craft kits, like colouring books with washable textas or DIY Easter egg decorating kits (stickers over dye—we promise your car seats will thank you).
- Audiobooks & Music: Audiobooks are a surprise hit with kids of all ages. Choose stories with festive vibes or fun sing-along playlists to keep spirits high.
Snack Time Without the Stress
Snack time is magic for breaking up boredom and tantrums! Make it fun but practical. A divided container can become a "snack sampler" with a mix of healthy treats and a few holiday sweets. Don't forget spill-proof cups for drinks to keep everyone hydrated and the car spill-free. And hey, a mini-cooler is a lifesaver for fresh fruits, veggies, and yoghurt on longer trips!
Keep Easter Traditions Alive
Travelling doesn’t mean you have to skip your favourite Easter traditions. Here are a few ways to make the holiday feel special, even on the go:
- Portable Easter Egg Hunt: Pack a set of fillable plastic eggs and stash them in your luggage. When you arrive at your destination, hide them around your hotel room, car boot or backseat for a quick and festive mini-hunt. Don’t forget to pack a basket!
- DIY Travel Basket: Put together small Easter baskets for your kids with travel-sized toys, activity books, and treats they can use on the trip. It’s a sweet way to kick off the celebration.
- Virtual Visits: If you're away from extended family this Easter, carve out time for a virtual call after the egg hunt. It’s a great way to keep everyone connected.
Take Breaks and Stay Flexible
Don’t try to pack too much into travel days. Kids (and parents!) get tired and cranky when schedules are too tight. Build in extra time for snack stops, toilet breaks, or just running around at a rest area. On long flights, try a quick walk down the aisle to stretch their legs. The more you can loosen up expectations, the easier it is to keep everyone calm and enjoying the ride.
Cherish the Little Moments
Above all, remember that travel doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. The unexpected detours, silly games, and tiny giggles are what your kids will remember most. You’ve got this, and with a bit of preparation, your Easter adventure will be filled with family fun and joy.
Happy Easter and safe travels, from our family to yours!
