In theory, traveling with a toddler seems like it would be fun, but the reality is, your expectations rarely match with what really happens. So, buckle up, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
Your Expectation
Before you jet off to somewhere warm with your toddler, you think you’re going to “pack light.” You hate it when you see families lugging 734 bags through their airport. That won’t be you. You’re a minimalist.
Teen
The Reality
Annnnnd then your fantasies are quickly deflated when you start making a list of all the stuff you need to bring. Think you can potty train in a week?
Wifflegif
Your Expectation
You’re kind of freaked out that your toddler is going to, well, freak out on the plane.
The Reality
And then you’re secretly thrilled to see that there’s a screaming baby a few rows behind you. Score! No one’s gonna hate you!
Unreality Mag
Your Expectation
The car company is going to come with a car seat fully installed—because you checked 900 times.
My Reaction GIFs
The Reality
You wind up waiting around in the airport an extra two hours while they get you a new car with a car seat.
Your Expectation
Your toddler is going to be thrilled to sleep in her very own big girl bed!
The Reality
This is pretty much how you sleep every night:
Your Expectation
Your toddler is going to entertain himself all day on the beach while you work on your tan.
The Reality
You sat down more at your last Zumba class.
Your Expectation
You’re going to enjoy dinners out every night. (Finally! You don’t have to clean!)
The Reality
You have the waitress bring you to-go boxes mid-meal during breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Your Expectation
Your toddler is going to make friends with all of the other kids at the pool while you enjoy cocktails on a lounge chair.
The Reality
Your little one has suddenly developed major separation anxiety.
Your Expectation
You’re going to leave feeling refreshed and with a new confidence about traveling with kids.
The Reality
You’re going to leave, thinking: “We’re never doing this again.”
