It’s almost Summer, which means it’s almost time for road trips, flights to somewhere lovely, or a bus ride to the beach.

Either way, you’re going to need to prepare. If only there were 12 easy tips to help. Hang on a second. Look!

Here are 12 easy tips to make traveling with a baby, super easy. Wow, that’s so handy.

1. The staples

Bring diapers, wipes, plastic bags to put smelly things in, and an emergency change of clothes. In a pinch, you could leave the house with these and get everything else when you’re on the road.

2. Food

Easy to access snacks are a must to curb any brewing tantrum. They can buy you valuable time when you’re parking, at the traffic lights when they’re about to turn, or asking for directions.

3. Entertainment

If it’s a long trip, it’s easier to pack books, dolls, or cuddly toys. You have to pack lightly for the bus, so if you’re bringing a baby, carry a bath toy that has a sucker on the end. It can stick on the bus window and your baby can poke and press until you get where you’re going.

4. Remember why you’re there

It’s pretty likely that you won’t get to achieve the tasks you’d like to while you’re out. Let it go. You’re going for a fun family trip, so take in the moments and be flexible to the whims of your tiny boss.

5. Prepare for rain

You might like the dramatic weather, but your little one may not. Look for somewhere to take shelter, or bring a big enough umbrella. Don’t use a poncho as the loose plastic could be bad news for a little one.

6. Check the map for timing

How are you getting there? How long will it take and will you get back before naptime? Did you bring their naptime snuggie?

7. Bring a friend

Whether it’s a playdate or two friends running wild, it’s easier for you if you’re not the sole entertainment.

8. Pack a pillow

For flights or roadtrips, getting a few hours of quiet while they all sleep well make it all more tolerable. Pro-tip: did you know those airplane neck pillows are meant to be worn with the opening at the back? Your chin rests on the padding.

9. Book tickets in advance

Skip as many queues as you can by booking attraction tickets online before you go. This also works for coffee shops that let you order online. Get snacks and refreshments and be in-and-out in a jiffy.

10. Plan for travel sickness

If you’re halfway through your journey and someone feels ill from the bumps in the road, there’s not much you can do. Unless you’ve brought some motion-sickness lollipops, dry crackers or anything with ginger in it. Take away anything that they have to focus on, like a book or iPad as that’s making it worse.

11. Have travel documents handy

Don’t be the one in line who has to rummage around in suitcases for the family passports or hotel info. Get a big ziplock or folder and put them all in there and keep it in whichever bag is going to be by your side the whole trip.

12. Plan for the unplanned

If there’s unscheduled bathroom breaks, snack stops, or “can we please go here, pleeeeeaaasssee?”, it’s ok. I know I mentioned it before, and it’s probably for my own sake because I need to hear this. Be flexible. It doesn’t matter if the road is a little more bumpy, or winding than you thought. Let the journey be something to enjoy.

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