Traveling with children can be daunting at the best of times, and even more so when taking a long-haul flight plus going on tour. Help your family vacation run smoothly with these 8 tips on traveling with children in Sri Lanka:
1. Short distances
Ask your tour agent to be conscious of the travel time between destinations.
2. Take it slow
Take your time at each destination, allowing the children to adjust and relax.
3. Stay hydrated
Take advantage of the local fruits and give them coconut water in the morning to stay hydrated. It’s a great way to rehydrate quickly should they have a long day in the sun also.
4. Snacks, snacks and more snacks
A hungry child can turn a fun filled day in to stressful experience in a matter of minutes. Many local stalls will sell mainly spicy snacks, so makesure you stock up in your local supermarket (Keels, Cargills and Arpico to name afew) if that doesn’t suit their taste buds.
5. Traveling with a baby or toddler?
Branded nappies, wipes and formula can be overpriced on the island, however should you not wish to travel with them in your suitcase you will find them available in your local supermarket (Keels, Cargills or Aprico can be found in most towns), or pharmacy. Many airports will allow baby milk and baby food to be carried through security in containers over 100ml. They usually open containers to screen contents at the security point. It’s worth checking with the airports you’ll be traveling through, just to make sure.
6. Strollers vs Baby carrier
A stroller is always appealing as it gives you a break, however bear in mind that much of Sri Lanka doesn’t have a pavement, therefore you will be walking on the side of the road which may not always be even or have much space. My personal opinion… bring both. If you don’t have the capacity to do that then I would opt for a baby carrier.
7. Car seat?
You are not legally obliged to have your child in a car seat, babies included. Should you wish to use one it would be best to ask your tour agent if they can arrange one, or better yet bring your own. Always make the tour agent aware of this so they can ensure the car has enough space available for storage / use. I would also check with your airline to makesure that you can bring this as luggage at no additional cost.
8. Travel entertainment
When you’re traveling with kids, keeping them entertained is crucial. No one likes to be bored, kids included. Whether you are doing a short tour, or stay in one location you want to be prepared with some travel entertainment such as books, ipads, games, colouring kit etc.
