How to go on holiday with twin toddlers

Making holidays easier with twin toddlers

Going on holiday with twins, triplets or more can feel exciting and daunting in equal measure. You might be picturing sandy beaches, peaceful naps and relaxed meals. At the same time you might wonder how you’ll manage travel, packing and toddler-sized unpredictability. With some planning and a flexible mindset, you can build a break that feels manageable, worthwhile and full of moments you’ll remember with a smile.

Planning the practical bits before you go

Thinking ahead makes a big difference when you’re travelling with toddler twins. Treat the trip as a collection of small adventures rather than a tight schedule. This approach helps you enjoy the moments that matter, from a calm morning walk to two happy toddlers building sandcastles. Being open to change means you can adjust plans when your toddlers need a rest or a slower pace.

Packing takes time, so focus on what truly makes your days easier. Familiar snacks, comfort toys and spare outfits are often the essentials that keep things on track. Even if your toddlers enjoy walking, bring a pushchair. Long days, busy places and evening outings can leave little legs tired and a pushchair carries both children and bags when you need free hands. If you’re holidaying in the UK, arranging a supermarket delivery saves space in the car and helps you settle in more quickly.

Extra adult help is a real advantage on holiday. Grandparents, uncles, aunties or close friends can share the load and make each day easier for you and more fun for your children. Even a few hours of extra support can transform the shape of a holiday.

Think about travel timing too. Car journeys often run more smoothly when you plan them around nap times. Keeping songs, snacks and simple activities within reach helps turn a tricky moment into a lighter one.

Flying with toddlers may feel daunting, but a few small steps can make it easier. Pre-booking seats helps you sit together without relying on other passengers. Sitting near the toilet is a comfort if your children are out of nappies. Pre-ordering formula from a shop in the departure lounge avoids carrying extra through security. A quick check of buggy rules means you’ll know how far you can use it before boarding. Arriving early reduces stress and gives your toddlers time to settle.

Toddlers may find security queues confusing, so explain what will happen and try a little role play before you travel. When it’s time to board, keep your children out of their seats until the last moment if you can, especially if another adult can go ahead with the bags. For take-off and landing, something to suck helps with ear pressure. New books, stickers or small toys can buy you a few peaceful minutes and extra screen time is absolutely fine on travel days. Spare clothes for everyone are always worth packing.

Choosing a destination that suits your family

Your ideal holiday may look different now you have toddlers. Think about what will support your family best at this stage. You might want open spaces, simple routines and short walks rather than busy city exploring. Accommodation with room to play or easy access to the outdoors can make your days feel smoother.

Keeping meals relaxed and realistic

Holiday meals with toddlers can be unpredictable, especially when everything feels new. Keeping things relaxed helps everyone enjoy the day more. Snacks, picnics and child-friendly places reduce pressure and flexible plans let you follow your children’s pace.

Many toddlers prefer plain or familiar foods when they’re away from home. On one of my own holidays, both children chose plain pasta every night for a week. It wasn’t what I’d imagined, but it kept everyone calm and it made evenings much easier. A short stretch of simple eating won’t affect long-term health, but it can make your holiday feel far more peaceful.

Adjusting expectations and enjoying the small moments

Holidays with toddler twins may feel different from the trips you took before children, but they bring their own kind of magic. Watching your toddlers explore somewhere new together turns simple moments into treasured ones. You may find joy in unexpected places: a shared giggle, a peaceful ten minutes on the beach or the way your children chase waves side by side.

Be kind to yourself throughout the trip. You’re balancing the needs of two young children while trying to rest and enjoy time away. Things won’t always go to plan, and that’s okay. Celebrate the small wins and notice the memories being made. Your holiday doesn’t need to be perfect to be wonderful.