Introduction:

Congratulations!, you are super awesome for planning an outing with your newborn and toddler/s. I know how nerve wrecking it can be, but trust me when I say that this is going to be absolutely rewarding. You will be tired, maxed out, but still – you are going to make some amazing core memories for yourself and your child. We went out on our first family trip, when my eldest was 3 months old – and we started small. We booked a hotel down south, that was just 1 hour drive from home. So the key is to start small, and with time and experience, you can start going on hikes! 

Start Small 

Embarking on a road trip with a toddler can be both exciting and challenging, especially in a destination as diverse and enchanting as Sri Lanka. For new parents and moms, the idea of exploring the bustling city of Colombo, the serene hill country, and the picturesque down south region might seem like a daunting task with a little one in tow. But fear not! With some careful planning and a touch of adventure, you can create unforgettable family memories while navigating this tropical paradise with your toddler. Here’s your ultimate road trip survival guide to help you make the most of your journey through Sri Lanka.

  • Choose the Right Route and Timing:

Selecting the right route and timing is key to a successful road trip. Plan your departure to coincide with your toddler’s naptime or bedtime to ensure a peaceful start. Dush and I always try our best to leave early in the morning, where the kids are still sleeping. We dress them in travel clothes the night before, so that we don’t have to hassle them getting dressed the following day. The same goes for our 5 year old. He sleeps with travel-friendly light clothes, so we pretty much carry him and keep him inside the car in the morning, so that he can continue to sleep till the sun rises. Once, we left as early as 3am so that we could maximize travel time, so that by the time we stop for breakfast we would have covered at least 60% of our journey. 

We try to avoid lonely routes suggested by google maps, just in case there is a breakdown or an emergency. We used to be a tad bit more adventurous, taking all the weird roads that Google would show us, when it was only the two of us. But with Kids on board, we avoid such small/lonely roads – just in case. 

  • Pack Smart and Light:

This is such a challenge, because when we travelled to Nuwera Eliya the twins were 6 months, and we had to take tons of things, including layers of clothing, sterilizers, etc etc. We totally packed our car and I don’t regret it. The thing is when we started travelling with my eldest I was breastfeeding, so there was not too much to take other than clothing and bedding, but with the twins I had to take bottles, sterilizers, bottle washing liquids, containers, sponge, brushes, etc etc. So it really depends on each child. 

Packing efficiently is essential when travelling with a toddler. Be sure to bring along essentials like diapers, wipes, changing mats, and extra clothes. Opt for a lightweight stroller that’s easy to maneuver and fold.

 Don’t forget to pack some of your toddler’s favourite toys, books, and snacks to keep them engaged and content during the journey. We always, always, always! Take their comforters or quilts, bedsheets so that we can maintain the familiarity even in the new beds/cots. This helps sooth them even in a new environment, because the cots/feeding pillows etc will give them the scent of the familiar that they are accustomed to. We don’t take the entire toy box, because of course they are supposed to be outdoors exploring new things, but one or two favourite toys will not hurt at all. If it’s your very first outing, you may struggle to pack light, and that’s okay. It’s really amazing that you are embarking on an adventure, and I understand how nerve wracking planning can be, so go it’s ok – take what you need, and what you think you might need! Make a checklist and start packing your bag accordingly. 

  • Embrace Pit Stops and Breaks:

Long drives can be tiring for both parents and toddlers. Embrace the beauty of Sri Lanka’s landscapes by taking frequent pit stops. Whether it’s a roadside fruit vendor in the hill country or a beachside view down south, these breaks provide an opportunity for your little one to stretch their legs and explore. Believe me when I say, we took 10 hours to reach Trincomalee with a toddler. This trip ideally should take under 5 hours, but with unending stops, diaper changes, crying, stretching, we made it to Trincomalee quite late in the day – and that is totally ok! 

  • Explore Toddler-Friendly Attractions:

Sri Lanka offers a range of toddler-friendly attractions in each region. In Colombo, visit Viharamahadevi Park for a dose of greenery and playtime. Head to the hill country to enjoy the scenic train ride and visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, where your toddler can marvel at vibrant flowers and butterflies. Down south, explore the sandy shores and shallow waters of Unawatuna Beach for safe and enjoyable beach time.

  • Plan Accommodations with Care:

Before kids, Dush and I used to be OK with any kind of accommodation, we were never too scared to try places. But with the kids, this completely changed. 

Choose accommodations that cater to the needs of toddlers and new parents. Look for family-friendly hotels or guesthouses that offer amenities such as baby cots, high chairs, and child-friendly menus. Booking in advance ensures a comfortable stay for your family – this is a must, we learned it the hard way.  There was this one time, when we spontaneously decided to go check out the Jungle Beach in Unawatuna. We thought we’d be ok with any kind of accommodation, and since it was last minute, we went ahead and booked a place that was available. It was a pretty bad decision. It was a decent room and all, but it had no TV and was not toddler conducive at all, the bathroom tiles were super slippery and the whole vibe was just off. We ended up heading back home after the beach stay, we were not ready to spend the night there. So, always try to book a place ahead of time. It helps! 

  • Embrace Local Cuisine:

Sri Lanka’s culinary scene is a treat for the senses. Introduce your toddler to the flavors of local dishes such as rice and curry, string hoppers, and tropical fruits. Many eateries are accommodating and can provide simpler versions of dishes for your little one. Or, if your little one is anything like my older son, who still doesn’t eat spicy food, we make sure we take basics like, yoghurt, cereals, bananas, biscuits etc. While on road trips, the kids (and the parents 😀) tend to snack all the time, so it’s ok to go easy on the scheduled meals. As long as they have eaten something and their tummies are full, it’s fine! You can always go back home after the vacation and return to the normal eating routines. 

  • Capture Memories and Cherish Moments:

As you journey through Sri Lanka with your toddler, be sure to capture precious moments with photos and videos. Whether it’s your little one’s first taste of tropical fruit or their awe at the sight of an exotic animal, these memories will be cherished for years to come.

Conclusion:

Travelling with a toddler in Sri Lanka is a rewarding adventure that allows new parents to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. By following this road trip survival guide and embracing the beauty of each region – from Colombo to the hill country and down south – you can create lasting memories and provide your toddler with an enriching experience. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready for a memorable journey through this tropical paradise with your little one by your side.