How to Keep Kids Cool While Traveling: Simple Strategies

Traveling with kids in the summer heat can quickly become a sweaty challenge for everyone involved. When temperatures rise, keeping little ones comfortable is not only about avoiding meltdowns, but about keeping them safe and healthy. Luckily, with a bit of planning and some simple strategies, you can keep kids cool while traveling and make your family trips more enjoyable. In this post, I’ll share practical tips that have worked for us out and about, in airports, and during long car rides.

Toddler boy sitting on large rock drinking from frozen water bottle - hydration is a way to keep kids cool while traveling — *^{This picture makes me want to drink that entire bottle!}*

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Stay Hydrated the Smart Way

Hydration is the cornerstone of keeping kids cool. Offering small sips of water often throughout the day helps regulate their body temperature and prevents overheating. We always bring our favorite spill-proof cups (this cup for our older kiddo, this one for our younger one) so the kids can have cold water at-hand. If you have littles who aren’t excited by water alone, infusing water with slices of fruit can make drinking more appealing.

Frozen juice boxes are also a great travel-friendly treat. We haven’t done this yet because our kids still prefer water, but I love this hack because frozen juice boxes are both a tasty way for kids to stay hydrated and cool, and also a way to keep your other food/drinks cold longer! Win-win (win).

Toddler sippy cups and baby bottle on table in front of flower bouquet min — *^{There are lots of other character options, too!}*

Dress for the Heat

Choosing the right clothes can make a big difference in keeping kids comfortable. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or bamboo are your best bets. Dark colors soak up more heat in the sun, so lighter colors are usually a cooler choice. If you do have some dark clothing, just be sure it is loose-fitting and allows air to circulate.

And if your kids are willing, have them wear a wide-brimmed sun hat to protect their face and neck from direct sun exposure. Our kids have never been big hat wearers, but sometimes all it takes is the right color or design to change their minds. Bringing along an extra set of clothes is a good idea, too. You never know when they may get extra sweaty or find a random sprinkler to run through!

Toddler boy wearing baseball cap outside as a strategy to keep kids cool while traveling — *^{He never wore hats until he got one from the Hockey Hall of Fame.}*

Use Cooling Gear That Actually Helps

Over the years, we’ve learned that some cooling gear does make a difference during summer travel. Remembering sun shade for your stroller can often be overlooked if you travel with a different stroller than the one you use at home. We also like to keep this mini fan power bank in our diaper bag. It’s a small device that brings big a little relief and doubles as a portable charger, which means one less gadget we need to bring!

Toddler girl using personal fan on playground min

Time It Right and Seek Out Shade

Scheduling your day with heat in mind can prevent overheating and keep kids cool while traveling. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons when the sun is less intense. Use breaks to retreat into air-conditioned spots like museums, cafés, or shaded parks.

Encourage naps or quiet downtime during the peak heat hours. Your kids (and you!) will appreciate the break.

Baby girl taking a nap on a poolside lounge chair in the shade — *^{She didn’t need much encouragement then!}*

Think Cool from the Inside Out

Cool snacks and simple cooling tricks can work wonders. Frozen fruit, yogurt tubes, and applesauce pouches are refreshing treats on hot travel days. Wiping kids down with wet wipes or a damp cloth can help lower their skin temperature quickly.

If you find splash pads or fountains, let kids dip their feet in to cool off. Keeping ice packs handy in your diaper bag or cooler also comes in handy, not only for snacks, but to cool down stroller straps or car seats that get hot in the sun.

Toddler boy pulling mom into interactive fountain in town square min — *^{He literally dragged us in, but we didn’t mind!}*

Because Meltdowns Aren’t Just About Ice Cream

Being able to keep kids cool while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple preparations like staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, using the right gear, and timing activities thoughtfully, you can help your little ones beat the heat and enjoy your summer adventures together.

What are your go-to tricks for staying cool on family trips? Share them in the comments below. I’d love to hear what works for you!

If you could use some ways to save on summer travel, check out this post!