Are you venturing on vacation this year with toddler twins? Traveling with kids is hard. Period. But when you have two of the same age, it can be even more difficult. We are heading to Cape Cod in a few short weeks with our two year old twins. We are also bringing along their five year old brother, but he’s a whole other story – for another day!
Twins mean double the packing, more cargo, accessories, clothing, food and of course the baby gear. Here’s 7 Tips for Vacationing with Twin Toddlers. Note: I did not include air travel in this – we have yet to even attempt this ourselves!
Tip 1 : New Toys
Now before you assume big toys, think dollar store! Buy toys that are big enough that there aren’t small pieces, but that will have that “new appeal.” I buy a ton of stuff to throw in one bag – double of each so there’s no fighting. Ideas can include, magnet writing boards, cars, play phones, purse set, books, etc. When the going gets tough, pull out a ‘new toy’ on a long car ride and you have an entertained toddler for another 5 minutes. Even though we have not flown, I assume this would work great on an airplane. If you take these away while on vacation, they will work just as great on the way home!
Tip 2: Use Amazon & Ship Direct
Packing can be a pain in the neck. I get overwhelmed and space becomes tight. I like to use my Amazon Prime (no affiliation here, I truly love my Amazon Prime!!!) Since I get free, two day shipping, I have items like diapers, wipes, non perishable pantry items (like those pureed fruit pouches) sent directly to the vacation home, hotel, location. If you are renting a home, make sure the package will not arrive early. I usually have it set to arrive the day after we get there. I simply pack enough for a day. If you are staying at a hotel, call the hotel and ensure they can take delivery for you. Most hotels are happy to.
Tip 3: Destination Rentals
I love renting the items we need while on vacation. Google baby rentals, vacation rentals for the area you are visiting. There are usually several businesses in each area that rent baby gear, kids gear and more. You can also rent linens, beach chairs and cribs. What I usually rent: a big double stroller, beach chairs and beach toys – all the big items that take up too much space.
Tip 4: Ziploc Bags are Your Friend
I bring a ton of these on vacation with me. You can grab them at the dollar store and they work great. I use them for everything – keeping our wallets, electronics dry on the beach, garbage, wet clothes, dirty diapers, keeping precious toys/blankies safe and more.
Tip 5: Plan Your Packing
I plan what everyone is going to wear each day. Remember to note if you have access to a washer/dryer. While you won’t want to be doing laundry, it will be helpful to do a load mid-week if means packing less. I put outfits by day in ziploc bags (see above) for the kids and make sure I’m not over-packing.
Tip 6: A Piece of Home
Don’t forget night lights, music, or familiar items from home – especially for bedtime.
Tip 7: For Happy Babies, Maintain a Loose Schedule
I find that maintaining a loose schedule like home works. Yes, you’re on vacation, but cranky twins is no way to enjoy anything either. I keep a loose schedule that mimics home. We usually head to the beach early in the AM (which is great because it’s empty!) and let them play til the high sun of noon. We either eat at the beach or head home for lunch, wash up and then have naps (sometimes Mom and Dad, too!) It gives everyone time to relax after the morning. We then head back out for the afternoon/dinner and then return home to do a semi-normal bedtime. I do let the kids stay up later or have playing in the backyard of our summer rental, but I don’t stray way off of their normal routine.
Happy, Safe Travels!
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