Traveling to Puerto Vallarta with a Toddler: Our Adventure and Tips

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta with a toddler was an adventure, but with a bit of preparation, we made the transition as smooth as possible. Here’s a glimpse into what we did and some tips that might help fellow parents.

Getting Ready for the Journey

As we geared up for our trip to Puerto Vallarta, we knew that keeping Wren happy and well-fed was our top priority. We stocked up on his favorite travel-friendly snacks: pouch food, Cheerios, and fig bars. Our thinking was simple: a hungry baby equals a stressful trip. We made sure to feed him regularly at the airport and on the plane to avoid any hunger-induced meltdowns.

In addition to snacks, we packed his favorite blanket (Little Sleepies, of course), a fidget spinner, a small toy from Amazon that lights up and is collapsible, and some sticky jellies I read about. The jellies were supposed to be fun because they stick to surfaces, but they didn’t quite work out as expected. Despite these efforts, Wren was exhausted and had a hard time sleeping in my arms. Thankfully, our row mate was incredibly understanding about the occasional crying spells.

Navigating the Airport and Flight

Traveling with a toddler means being prepared for anything. At the airport, we kept Wren entertained and comfortable by letting him explore a bit and stretch his legs. We also made sure to have a variety of snacks and drinks on hand. Feeding him often helped keep him calm and content, and we avoided any hunger-induced tantrums.

We opted for Delta Comfort+ seats for a bit more space. I can't imagine managing in Economy without an extra seat for Wren. While First or Business Class would be ideal, it wasn’t in the budget for us this time. Having the extra legroom in Comfort+ made a difference, especially when Wren needed a bit of space to move around.

The Importance of a Good Stroller

Our stroller, the Tactical Baby Gear Switchback, was a lifesaver in Puerto Vallarta. With its larger tires and shocks (yes, it has shocks!), it handled the cobblestone roads beautifully. A reliable stroller is essential when traveling abroad, especially in places with uneven surfaces. Check out our stroller here.

Maintaining a Routine

One of the best strategies we employed was sticking to Wren’s routine. Every day, we stayed inside between 1-4 PM, which also happens to be the hottest time of the day in Puerto Vallarta. During this period, Wren would eat, nap, play, and eat again, ensuring he was well-rested and happy for the evening. Our mornings were reserved for studying or working, while afternoons were perfect for beach outings, discovering new restaurants, and taking long walks.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic destination with so much to offer, even for families with young children. We spent our mornings exploring the local area, visiting markets, and enjoying the beautiful beaches. The afternoons were our time to relax and soak up the sun.

One of our favorite activities was taking long walks along the Malecón, the famous boardwalk. The views were stunning, and there were plenty of spots to sit and take a break. Wren loved watching the street performers and listening to the music. We also discovered some amazing restaurants that were family-friendly and offered delicious local cuisine.

Tips for Traveling with a Toddler

1. Plan Ahead: Make sure you have all the essentials packed and ready. This includes snacks, drinks, diapers, wipes, and any comfort items your child needs.
2. Stick to a Routine: Keeping to a routine can help your child feel more secure and comfortable. Try to maintain regular meal times and nap times as much as possible.
3. Stay Flexible: While having a routine is important, it’s also essential to stay flexible and go with the flow. Traveling can be unpredictable, so be prepared to adapt as needed.
4. Choose the Right Gear: Having a good stroller and other travel gear can make a big difference. Make sure your stroller is suitable for the destination and can handle different types of terrain.
5. Keep Them Entertained: Bring along toys, books, and other activities to keep your child entertained during the journey. A little bit of screen time can also be a lifesaver on long flights.
6. Take Breaks: Give your child plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. This can help prevent restlessness and crankiness.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a toddler is no easy feat, but it can be manageable and enjoyable with the right preparation. Communicate often and stick to a routine to keep everyone happy. With a bit of planning, your travel experience can be smooth and memorable.

Puerto Vallarta is a wonderful destination for families, and we had an amazing time exploring the city with Wren. The key is to stay organized, be patient, and enjoy the journey. Safe travels!