Chicago to Denver with 2 toddlers

[cubbie_doug]

The decision to drive versus fly is still up for debate. Your tips are very helpful. I think your idea about traveling two hours at a time is a good one--and a good reality check. Thanks again.

[PNW Judy]

I've done long roadtrips with toddlers and I've flown with toddlers. I'd rather drive anytime.

On a plane, you have the long wait at the airport, then you have the line to get on the plane, and then you have the cramped surroundings on the plane where your kids can't get those wiggles out and, if they do get loud or rambunctious, you have the comfort of other passengers to worry about, too. Then you have to go through the chaos of getting off the plane. And who knows how long you'll have to wait for your luggage (unless you do all carry-on, my recommendation but difficult with all the things you need to carry for the kids). Then you will need to stand in the line for the car rental. Oh, and won't you be doing all of this while hauling around the airline approved carseats for the kids to sit in?

Yikes! Double Yikes! This is as horrid as it sounds. Believe me.

To each their own and you might not agree with me but I would rather drive with toddlers when you can attend to their needs, play with them, bond with them, and just plain have the time to enjoy them without the pressures of daily life to get in your way. Flying with toddlers was one of the worst things I've ever done. Once they hit about age 5, it wasn't so bad and, actually kinda fun. But before that....horrors!

My last 2 bits on the matter.