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A toddler. How to travel with a toddler
Are you curious about flying with kids? Do you want to know what to expect when traveling with your little ones? Check out our kids on a plane, a family travel blog post!
Travel is a fun enterprise; I remember when we landed in Amsterdam, a stewardess said: “Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!” and while the whole plane froze in shock, she smiled and added: “It was a joke:).”
I hope each journey made you smile, and traveling with a toddler can be enjoyable if you follow simple guidance.
I fly with each child from the US to Kazakhstan and back to introduce her to my extended family. I do it before they turn 2 because they are strong enough to travel for 30 hours, plus kids up to two years old fly for free.
They fit in a cot on International flights that allows them to sleep the whole flight comfortably. And also, sitting on the first row in economy class gives me some extra legroom. What could be better?
I took 2 round flights from the USA to Central Asia and back. My trips usually last from 26 to 30 hours if you count door-to-door time. Each way involves 3 flights, 2 layovers, and one passport control. And my kiddos had absolutely zero meltdowns or issues.
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Kids on a plane a family travel blog. Get free tickets for yourself
My husband and I took about 14 free flights within a decade. We applied for credit cards that allow you to accumulate points, and you can use them towards plane tickets and other travel expenses.
There are hundreds of credit cards’ loyalty programs, we used
They worked great for international flights. You can redeem United point for United flights and their partners. And you can turn CHASE points into points of other loyalty programs.
Apply today to start earning points for your next free flight!
So how to travel with a toddler for free?
Sleeping Schedule is your friend when you travel with a toddler for free
Flying with a baby can be tricky. If it is just you and there are no extra hands to pass the child to and to take a break, then planning around your child’s sleeping schedule would be a brilliant decision.
If you have to fly to the international airport first, schedule it around the baby’s nap time. That way the baby will sleep through the flight and make no distraction, no screaming or crying. Both my kids were sound asleep all 4 flights. It was amazing! No cries, no mess, no stress.
During layovers, let your child run around as much as she can and give yourself a good “workout” too. It will be a long flight and you want to make your legs tired.
I heard some kids cry during takeovers or landing because of ear pressure. If that’s the case, nursing or eating/drinking would ease it.
Once you landed, find your gate first and then care for everything else. I usually eat at a nice place and something nutritious plus something that I am sure my child will definitely eat. You never know what they serve on the plane, and I honestly prefer sleeping through the night rather than get interrupted with food.
The good news, they schedule most of the International flights from the US to Europe (and hopefully all others) at night time and the flight lasts for about nine hours, so if your child sleeps tight she will sleep through that flight too.
They feed you twice during the flight. Please do not wake your child up. She does not need to eat. It’s night. Let her sleep. And sleep yourself as much as you can unless you are hungry.
If you have to take the third flight, schedule it around the next nap time.
If at the final destination the time difference is closer to 12 hours and if you are staying there for less than 2 weeks, I would recommend sticking with your home time.
If you switch to the local timing, jetlag will last for 2 weeks and even if you do not care, the kid will get confused and might not cooperate, moreover in 2 weeks you will have to fly back, and reverse jetlag is even worse.
I usually stay for 2-2,5 weeks and sleeping through the day works just great. It’s my hometown and I am eager to see all my friends and family and to go to places but everybody is at work during the day anyway and places are open late/early so I still get to see everyone and visit everything I want.
Kids on a plane a family travel blog. Set up a routine.
We go outside in the early morning, then sleep through the day and wake up when everybody comes home from work. This is when the fun begins! We can go eat out, go shopping, visit friends, go to a park, swimming pools, etc. Anything that your toddler might like.
By the time locals ready to sleep, my kid is ready for a nap. After the nap, we eat, read books, take baths, play quiet games, do laundry, do some cleaning, eat supper and around 7 am are getting ready to go outside…
If your child sleeps for approximately 12 hours, it doesn’t matter which twelve hours she will doze, you still will have time for fun.
On weekends, when friends and family are off. I am able to sacrifice some of my sleep to stay up “late” and go out during the day, but honestly, most of the activities are scheduled for evenings, anyway. And with my baby sleeping, I can spend some quality adult time with my friends. It works great!
Also, there are some places that are open early, such as grocery stores, markets, beauty salons, saunas, gyms, and parks, just plan and go!
Staying on the “home” schedule has another advantage. Once you come back, you will be on the “correct” schedule right away. There still will be tiredness caused by travel, but you will not have to deal with two-week-long jetlag.
I enjoy flying with a toddler more than traveling with older kids or adults. Airports consider infants VIPs and as a parent, you get that benefit too. It includes cutting up lines for passport control, being checked in first, checked out first, boarded first too. You can bring in a bottle of water through security, and all airport workers will try to make your trip as easy as they can.
What are the absolute must-haves when you travel with a toddler?
A large stroller.
I take a big stroller when flying with a baby. You might think the smaller the better. No. A large stroller allows your child to sleep or sit comfortably during the layovers while you surf around the airport.
It is easier to maneuver, and you can load all your cloth and an oversized diaper bag on it and give your hands/shoulders/back some rest, rather than carrying all that on yourself. I’ve been using Premium Double Tandem Baby Stroller for all my trips. It is big but light and compact when folded and still counts as a single-seat stroller on a flight. I like it also because it “grows” with your child, and fits both a baby and a preschooler. We took it on all our trips for the last 10 years and so far had to buy only two of them.
A spacious diaper bag.
You will be allowed to have only a diaper bag as a carry-on, so it has to be big. I usually take my weekender Vera Bradley bag and pack it with a change of cloth for both of us, along with regular diaper-bag stuff for the baby for two days.
Any travel includes 4 main categories of expenses: accommodation, transportation, food and entertainment. In this blog post I will show you how you how to take a luxury trip on a budget, by tackling this four expenses.
How to Take a Luxury Trip on a Budget: Smart Strategies for Affordable Indulgence
Embarking on a luxury trip often seems like a dream reserved for the wealthy, but with the right strategies, you can indulge in upscale experiences without depleting your savings. Planning is key to enjoying the finer things while sticking to a budget. The secret lies in knowing when and where to find value without compromising on the quality of your experience. From scoring deals on opulent accommodations to savoring gourmet meals that won’t break the bank, there are numerous ways to elevate your journey’s style.
Understanding the art of a luxury vacation on a budget means prioritizing what’s truly important to you. Is it the comfort of a five-star hotel, the convenience of a prime location, or the exclusivity of an unforgettable adventure? By allocating your funds towards your main interests, you’ll customize a trip that feels both lavish and financially savvy. The experience isn’t just about grandeur; it’s about making special memories without financial strain.
Intelligent planning can also open doors to luxury accomodations on a budget and exclusive events that seem out of reach. Staying flexible with your travel dates, using reward points, and booking packages can vastly reduce costs without sacrificing the opulence of your vacation. Embracing this mindful approach lets you revel in the grandeur of luxury travel, paired with the satisfaction of knowing you’ve crafted a stylish and affordable escape.
Planning Your Budget-Friendly Luxury Vacation
Embarking on a luxury vacation doesn’t have to drain your savings. With careful planning and smart budgeting, you can experience opulence without the hefty price tag.
Determining Your Luxury Trip Cost
Begin by outlining your vacation itinerary as this will shape your overall trip cost. To save money, focus on:
Accommodation: Look for luxury hotels with lower rates during the off-season, such as the Conrad Cairo where upscale rooms can be more affordable.
Transportation: Utilize flight comparison tools to find premium flights at a reduced cost. Airlines often run sales that can significantly lower the cost of travel.
Make a list of the must-visit places and activities and assign a realistic budget for each. Here’s an example:
Item
Estimated Cost
Flights
$800
Accommodation
$600
Fine Dining
$200
Transport (local)
$100
Sightseeing
$100
Miscellaneous
$200
We used the same hack and used points from the credit cards. Tickets were free, we just had to pay taxes and fees for 2 people.
And all Chase Cards points could be used both for booking hotels and flights so we used some of those.
Leveraging Travel Budgeting Strategies
To further help you travel on a budget, adopt these approaches:
Look for last-minute travel deals. This can be a strategy to save money, especially if you’re flexible with your dates and destinations.
Consider using travel rewards such as points or miles to offset costs without compromising on the quality of your trip.
Set a daily spending limit to avoid overspending, and stick to it.
Keep track of expenses with a budget app or spreadsheet to ensure you stay on track financially throughout your vacation.
Remember, luxury is attainable on a budget with the right amount of research and strategic planning.
Choosing the Right Destination
Embarking on a luxury vacation doesn’t have to drain your savings if you select the right destination. Your focus should be on locations where opulence is affordable, and timing plays a pivotal role.
Destinations for Affordable Luxury
Seeking places where your money stretches further can lead to rewarding experiences without the high price tag. Destinations like Thailand and Mexico offer luxury at a fraction of the cost you’d encounter elsewhere. In Thailand, pamper yourself with affordable spa treatments and lavish beachfront resorts, while in Mexico, enjoy gourmet dining and five-star accommodations that are budget-friendly. Closer yet exotic locales such as Costa Rica and Vietnam provide lush landscapes and exclusive resorts at prices that won’t break the bank.
Thailand: Offers affordable spa services and luxury beachfront resorts.
Mexico: Known for its gourmet cuisine and five-star yet accessible hotels.
Costa Rica: Provides exclusive eco-resort experiences at reasonable rates.
Vietnam: Invites travelers with its unique boutique hotels and serene beaches.
Considering Off-Season Travel
Travel during the off-season or shoulder season can lead to significant savings and a more exclusive experience. For example, visiting Australia or New Zealand outside the peak tourist months affords you quieter attractions and better deals on swanky accommodations. Beaches that are usually crowded during peak times can become serene retreats. By timing your trip wisely, you can indulge in the exclusivity of a luxury vacation without the usual costs.
Australia/New Zealand Off-Season: Enjoy reduced rates and quieter experiences during the spring and fall months.
Beach Retreats Shoulder Season: Find tranquility and affordability on beaches before or after the rush of tourists.
Booking Strategies for Flights and Accommodations
To indulge in the luxury you crave without breaking the bank, it’s all about when and how you book your flights and accommodations. Explore ways to find flight deals that make the skies friendlier to your wallet and secure sumptuous stays at rates that let you rest easy.
Finding the Best Flight Deals
Start by setting alerts on travel comparison sites to notify you of price drops for your desired routes. Timing is crucial; booking during off-peak seasons can lead to significant savings, and flying mid-week often means cheaper fares. Some sites also provide price predictions, helping you decide whether to book now or wait for a potential drop.
Utilize Airfare Search Engines: Services like Skyscanner or Google Flights aggregate fares from multiple airlines, giving you a broad view of the options.
Leverage Airline Miles: If you’ve been collecting airline points, make them count. Look for opportunities to redeem miles for flights, especially on long-haul or premium cabin bookings.
Securing Luxury Accommodations on a Budget
Your stay at a luxury hotel can be more affordable with the right approach. Harness the power of hotel points by staying loyal to hotel chains and signing up for their credit cards for points accumulation. Explore options beyond traditional hotels, like boutique hotels that can offer a unique luxury experience often at lower rates.
Book Early for Best Rates: Some luxury hotels offer advance booking discounts.
Seek Out Last-Minute Deals: Apps like HotelTonight can be goldmines for snagging luxe rooms at reduced rates due to last-minute availability.
Opt for Longer Stays: Hotels might provide better rates for longer visits, so consider extending your trip if it leads to savings per night.
Remember, access to luxury doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With savvy booking strategies and a little flexibility, you can make your next trip both opulent and affordable.
When Kevin and I just got married we didn’t have much income. Indeed, he was the only provider and I just immigrated and didn’t have any job but we took a luxury honey moon trip to Laguna Cliffs Hotel in Dana Point, California. It is still one of my most favorite places to visit. Not only it had a romantic atmosphere but everything from food and service to rooms and weather was absolutely perfect. The honeymoon was nearly free to us. How did we do that? Well, Kevin knew how to play points game and collected enough points for a luxury suite. Here are the tips to enjoy luxury travel on a budget.
So we stayed at the Laguna Cliff Hotel but the sign up bonus of each card would be enough for 1-2 nights in a luxury resort like Ritz Carlton, Orlando or Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Tennessee. As you can see cheap luxury vacations USA are possible.
Tip. If you are booking for a wedding/anniversary or another important date, mention it in the comments and you might get a complimentary upgrade. Some hotels require a proof of marriage, so be prepared. A photocopy/picture would be enough.
We got an upgrade and complimentary breakfast to a one bedroom suite with the ocean view thanks to a Platinum Status with Marriott Card, and originally we booked a studio.
Making the Most of Loyalty Programs and Points
Loyalty programs and credit card rewards can be powerful tools to access affordable luxury travel experiences. By strategically utilizing points and miles, you can secure high-end accommodation and enjoy perks like airport lounge access, all while staying within your budget.
Maximizing Hotel Loyalty Programs
Joining hotel loyalty programs like those offered by Marriott, Hilton, and the World of Hyatt can lead to substantial savings and exclusive benefits. As you accumulate points, you’re able to book stays at luxury properties at a fraction of the cost. Here’s how to maximize these programs:
Sign Up for Free: It costs nothing to join these loyalty programs, and you’ll start earning points immediately.
Understand the Benefits: Look for hotels that offer extra perks, such as complimentary breakfast or room upgrades.
Take Advantage of Promotions: Hotels often run bonus point campaigns or offer discounted redemption rates.
Utilizing Credit Card Rewards
Credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred can amplify your travel experience by offering rewards that translate to free or discounted trips, upgraded flights, or access to exclusive airport lounges through Priority Pass. Here’s how to make the most of your credit card rewards:
Earn Sign-Up Bonuses: Achieve the initial spend requirement to unlock potentially lucrative sign-up bonuses.
Optimize Spending Categories: Use your card for purchases that earn you extra points, such as dining and travel.
Transfer Points: Some cards allow you to transfer points to hotel and airline loyalty programs, often yielding a higher value for your points.
By becoming savvy with points and loyalty programs, you’ll enjoy luxury travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.
Exploring Upscale Experiences for Less
Luxury travel doesn’t have to be exorbitant. You can indulge in fine dining and exclusive experiences while adhering to your budget. Here’s how to enjoy the splendor without the extravagant price tags.
Dining in Style without the Price Tag
Fine dining experiences are the highlight of luxury travel, but with clever planning, you can enjoy exceptional meals without overspending. One strategy is to dine during lunch hours, as many upscale restaurants offer lunch menus at a fraction of the dinner price. Additionally, explore options like restaurant week promotions in your destination, where high-end eateries provide special, reduced-price menus.
Moreover, consider visiting places known for their cuisine, such as Franschhoek in South Africa, where gourmet dining comes at more reasonable prices. Opting for a culinary splurge in regions where the cost of living is lower can provide a luxury dining experience at a fraction of what you might pay elsewhere.
The place we stayed had a complimentary breakfast buffet. At this particular resort the food was high quality and food categories spread from seafood/meats, omelets to fruits/veggies and desserts. It was a perfect combination for brunch so Kevin and I would have a big meal in the morning and then dine in for late lunch and ate leftovers for supper.
Tip 1. Lunches at the same restaurant are cheaper then suppers and place less crowded. Go for lunch at an odd time to enjoy the place for yourself.
Tip 2. To make the most of the experience. Sign up for loyalty program for the restaurant and order their special or promotion.
Tip 3. You can use your Credit Card points to pay off the statement balance. Attn: it’s not the best redemption but it is the best when you want that fancy meal at no cost to you.
Luxury Experiences and Activities on a Budget
Engaging in luxury activities and experiences does not require you to empty your wallet. Look for unique opportunities like glamping, which combines the rustic allure of camping with the amenities of a luxury hotel at a far lower cost. Sites offering incredible views and high-end service can be found for surprisingly reasonable rates.
Also, consider leveraging travel points and loyalty programs for experiences typically seen as splurges. Programs such as the World of Hyatt can unlock stays at high-end hotels and resorts without the steep price tag. Mix luxury and budget by using points for one part of your trip, like a stay at an exclusive resort, and adopt budget options for other areas like meals or activities.
Use the same trick for entertainment. Also check Citypass.com for deep discounts on activity packages.
Depending on your time and money you can regulate those four categories. By traveling locally, you can reduce transportation and accommodation expenses.
We found out that the best deal for traveling on a budget is to choose an all inclusive resort, collect points and go. All four categories of expenses are covered by points and you pay only resort fees (if any), and flights taxes.
I hope after reading this post you can come up with the plan how to travel luxuriously for free.
Drop a comment below if you want me to direct you to a full course on “how to travel on points for nearly nothing” and to send you an invite to a group where you can ask any questions regarding the topic.
How to Find and Book the Best Travel Deals
When it comes to booking a luxury trip on a budget, knowing where to find the best travel deals is essential. By utilizing promotions and understanding the value travel agents and online platforms offer, you can save money while indulging in affordable luxury travel.
Navigating Deals and Promotions
To get started, keep an eye out for deals and promotions on websites like Groupon, where you can discover discounted experiences and accommodations. Always check the fine print for blackout dates and restrictions to ensure the deal fits your itinerary. Setting up price alerts on travel sites can also notify you of price drops for flights and hotels. For instance, sites like Skyscanner allow you to track fares, so you can book when prices dip.
Tips:
Bookmark Travel Deal Pages: Websites often have specific pages for deals; bookmark them and check back regularly.
Sign Up for Newsletters: Many travel sites send out exclusive deals to their email subscribers.
The Role of Travel Agents and Online Platforms
Don’t overlook the value of a travel agent. They can access exclusive packages and might help you save time and money with their expertise. Similarly, online platforms such as Expedia offer a one-stop shop for booking all aspects of your trip—from flights to hotels to car rentals. They often have package deals that work out to be more affordable than booking each component separately.
Tips:
Compare Multiple Platforms: Before you book, compare deals across several platforms to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Leverage Loyalty Programs: Join loyalty programs on these platforms to earn points or receive additional discounts on future bookings.
By putting in a little extra time to research and compare your options, you can find fantastic deals that make luxury travel accessible, no matter your budget.
Travel Smart: Insurance and Car Rentals
To enjoy a luxurious getaway without breaking the bank, smart decisions on travel insurance and car rentals are essential. Proper coverage and savvy rental choices ensure both peace of mind and cost-effectiveness.
Choosing the Right Travel Insurance
When selecting your travel insurance, ensure it offers comprehensive coverage that aligns with your itinerary. Opt for plans covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. Affordable yet complete policies are offered by providers that let you manage your plan online, adding convenience to your travels.
Saving on Luxury Car Rentals
For luxury car rentals, book in advance and compare different rental agencies. Look for special offers and discounts that can significantly lower your costs. Be sure to join loyalty programs and use credit cards that offer rental insurance, allowing you to decline the rental company’s additional insurance for further savings.
Booking and Travel Tips for the Best Value
Achieving the best value on your luxury trip is all about knowing when to book and how to optimize your travel experience. These actionable tips are specifically designed to help you save money while indulging in the opulence you desire.
Timing and Flexibility in Booking
Book in Advance: Generally, booking your travel and accommodations several months in advance can lead to significant savings. Airlines and hotels often offer lower rates for early bookings, so it’s worth planning ahead. Check out these luxury vacation on a budget tips for more ways to save.
Use Flexible Dates: If your schedule allows, be flexible with your travel dates. Moving your trip a few days earlier or later can make a difference in cost, especially if you’re avoiding peak season prices.
Consider Off-Peak Travel: Travel during the off-season to find better deals on flights and accommodations. Plus, you’ll enjoy your destination without the crowds.
Monitor Exchange Rates: Keep an eye on currency exchange rates; a favorable rate can make your trip more affordable, giving you more luxury for less.
Tips for a Smooth Luxury Travel Experience
Research Thoroughly: Spend time looking for deals and promotions. Knowledge is power, and understanding what is available can lead to unexpected savings. These luxury travel tips provide a starting point for finding value without compromising on quality.
Consider Alternative Airports: Sometimes, flying into a secondary airport can be cheaper and offer a more luxurious experience with shorter queues and more personalized services.
Loyalty Programs: Enroll in airline and hotel loyalty programs. Accumulating points can lead to free upgrades and exclusive benefits that enhance your luxury experience without the extra cost.
Travel Apps are Your Friend: Utilize travel apps to snag last-minute deals. Hotels and airlines often lower prices as the date approaches to fill up remaining seats and rooms.
By mastering the art of timing and flexibility when booking your trip and employing strategic tips for a seamless journey, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a luxury travel experience that’s both memorable and affordable.
