Tips to Survive Time Zone Traveling with Kids

Most of us love traveling, but the whole experience has a different meaning once you have kids. Disruptions in daily routines, a change in environment, time zones, and more factors can throw your sweet little ones into confused, sleep-deprived, grumpy kids. Especially if you’re planning a trip, around the world or a few hours in a different zone, you may be panicking about what to do to protect your children from the negative effects of time-zone traveling. No one wants to deal with an overstimulated, tired, and grumpy baby; and time-zone traveling with kids can be a stressful experience. However, with the right preparation, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for the entire family. Here are some tips to keep in mind on traveling through time zones with kids!

1. Get prepared ahead!

One way to minimize the effects of the time difference and get prepared is to get used to the time zone of the travel destination before your trip. A few days earlier from your trip, you may start planning your day and your little one’s sleep schedule according to your destination’s time zone. If you’re traveling east, have them stay up later and wake up earlier. If you’re traveling west, have them go to bed earlier and wake up later. If the time change is going to be more than 5 hours, you may consider only adjusting them by a few hours instead of making 5 hours change in their routines, which will make adjusting the time difference and returning home much easier.

2. Get your kids involved! 

Involve your kids in the planning process by having them look up information about the destination. You may explain the time difference to them, while also mentioning fun activities or attractions. This will help them to react to time-zone differences more positively. The difference in the time zones is also fascinating for them, you may explain the situation by using pictures or stories so that you can prepare them for change. This will help them get excited about the trip and better understand the time zone difference. 

3. Choose your flight wisely! 

Choosing the right flight for your family when traveling across time zones will depend on your individual needs such as how many hours will differ and your preferences. If possible, you may choose a direct flight to minimize the stress and disruption of travel. Each different environment and disruption may trigger your little one’s tiredness and stress. While choosing the right flight for your family, by considering factors like timing, airline policies, and sleep habits, you can make the travel experience as smooth as possible for you and your kids.

4. Adjust your little one’s diet! 

First of all, make sure that your little one drinks plenty of fluids, especially water, during the flight to prevent dehydration. Depending on your flight time, you may also consider bringing some healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole-grain crackers to keep your child fueled, promote their wakefulness during the day, and better sleep at night. It is important to avoid sugary drinks or snacks, as they can disrupt sleep patterns and cause irregular energy crashes.

5. Once you arrive get outside! 

Once you arrive, aim to eat meals when locals are eating meals and socialize as if you’re not jet lagged. It may be difficult for a few days, depending on how far you’ve traveled, but doing this will help to speed up the adjusting process! Also, while choosing your flight you may adjust it according to arrival during the daytime. If you arrive at your destination in the morning, you will have more time to keep your little one active during the day and help them recharge by taking short naps. So, once you arrive at your destination, go outside, and enjoy the fresh air. This will help your kids smoothly adjust to the new time zone and environment.

6. Try to be patient with your little one!

Traveling may cause changes in a child's behavior, such as irritability, restlessness, and mood swings; also, it may cause them to feel anxious or uneasy about being in unfamiliar surroundings. Being patient with your kids during time-zone traveling can help them feel more secure, reduce their stress and anxiety, and help them adjust more quickly to new surroundings. Additionally, by demonstrating patience and understanding during time-zone traveling, you can model the kind of to exhibit in stressful or unfamiliar situations. Which might create a more positive family travel experience. 

There is no way of judging or anticipating how your child or you will adjust to the time shift, and whether or not it is going to be an easy adjustment or not. Using these tips above may certainly smooth the transition but it is also possible to still struggle regardless of how you try and help your little one. The best thing to do in this position is to try staying positive and wait for your children to get used to the new time zone.