Traveling for Thanksgiving

A Calm, Happy Holiday Starts with a Little Planning by Lyndsay Paige

We are here so families can relax, recharge, and truly enjoy the holidays.

Thanksgiving travel is one of the busiest and most hectic times of the year. Everyone wants to take advantage of the week off from school and the small break before the Christmas rush. But sometimes that quick getaway and rest you hoped for is nowhere to be found. Add little ones, pets, bags, snacks, nap schedules, and cramped car rides into the mix, and suddenly your holiday break does not feel like much of a break at all.

With a little planning, and maybe a trusted sitter to lend a hand, Thanksgiving travel can actually be enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips to keep your trip smooth, safe, and meltdown free so you can focus on the good stuff. Think food, family, and a well deserved moment of peace.

1. Prep a Travel Kit

Instead of juggling a dozen bags, create one grab-and-go kit for the kids.

Some top items include:

• Snacks that don’t crumble to dust everywhere - major mom WIN

• A small activity pad, book (interactive for extra entertainment), or fidget toy

• Headphones (must have 🙌🏼) and a downloaded show/movie or even a special kiddo curated playlist

• A cozy blanket or stuffed friend - hard friends are tough to snuggle or take a quick snooze with

• Wipes (for everything… absolutely everything) and probably some hand sanitizer too!

Pro Parent Move: Keep it accessible, not buried under everyone’s sweaters. One of our sitters family’s favorite spot is right between the captain chairs!

A simple travel kit makes long travel days much easier.

2. Plan Activities That Actually Keep Their Attention

Thanksgiving travel is generally long, so pick activities that last:

• Reusable sticker books

• Magnetic drawing boards, cling books, or games and puzzles to help with the lost piece issue

• “I Spy” holiday bingo

Pro tip: The alphabet version of I Spy is great for long road trips!

• Audiobooks or kids’ podcasts

Pro tip: Your iPhone will read the screen aloud! One of our sitters loves to use that feature with her Kindle app for long car rides!

• Wrapped surprises (yes - wrap them! Toddlers love the unwrapping part - you know the old “more entertained by the box than the gift” situation. 😂

Bonus: All babysitters/caregivers can bring along fresh activities for long travel days or in-home evenings, we carry nanny bags full of fun for each visit!

A calm and organized backseat setup helps kids stay content on long travel days.

3. Protect the Routine (As Much As Possible)

Kids thrive on predictability, and travel throws everything off. We’re not saying don’t have fun and enjoy the most of your vacation. But sticking to that schedule loosely will save you brain cells and you’ll thank yourself later - especially the ride back home! If you can try to keep:

• Meal times consistent

• Naps within the same window

• Bedtime rituals familiar (same stuffed animal, same song, same story, same bathroom routine)

Bonus: We offer overnight options. An overnight sitter can help keep sleep schedules on track while you enjoy adult time!

A predictable routine helps children feel grounded during travel.

4. Don’t Forget Your Pets

Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for dogs too ~ new smells, new people, long drives, or loud houses. *Think Chance from Homeward Bound, “TURKEY!!!”

If you’re hitting the road, consider:

• An in-home dog sitter

• Potty-break visits during travel days

• Someone to help with feedings and walks while you’re visiting family

• A warm bed or blanket for chilly weather

• Bring your pets favorite toys, beds and blankets so they can smell home while away.

It’s the easiest way to make sure your furry family members stay calm, safe, and loved. And don’t forget to check the weather and bring them in if it’s chilly!

Bonus: Those four legged babies get just as much love from us as the two legged ones. Pet care options are available.

A prepared pet kit keeps furry family members comfortable during the holidays.

5. Plan Ahead for Kids of All Abilities

Some children need extra support during busy holidays.

We recommend prepping:

• A familiar comfort item

• A visual schedule or checklist

• Noise-reducing headphones

• Pre-planned sensory breaks

• Extra time for transitions

Bonus: Some babysitters on the team are professionally trained and experienced in supporting children of all abilities.

A sensory friendly travel kit brings comfort and calm wherever you go.

6. When You Get Here - Let Us Help!

Whether you’re spending Thanksgiving week at the beach, visiting family along the coast, or live here full time we’ve got you covered:

• Vacation caregiving

• Date-night sitting

• Dog sitting

• Infant and/or disability care

• Overnight support

Bonus: A few hours with a sitter is often the difference between a chaotic trip… and a truly relaxing holiday.

Thanksgiving at the beach is magical with the right support.

From Our Family to Yours

Thanksgiving is all about connection, gratitude, and enjoying the people (and pets!) you love most. With the right support, your holiday travel can feel lighter, calmer, and way more joyful.

If you’ll be at the beach this Thanksgiving, we’re here whenever you need a helping hand. From 30A and Coastal Babysitters to you and yours, Happy Thanksgiving!