How to Handle Potty Training While Traveling
Potty training is the gift of parenthood I never really thought about until it was time to start. And wow, what a gift it is! Potty training at home is one thing. Potty training while traveling? That’s an entirely different challenge.
But after traveling extensively with my toddler while in the middle of potty training, I’ve figured out a few strategies that make it easier (or at least less of a disaster).
Expect Regressions
The first and most important thing to know: regressions are normal. Even kids who have been fully potty trained for months might struggle in new environments. Different time zones, unfamiliar toilets, and long car or plane rides all make it harder. The best approach? Be patient and flexible. Encouragement goes a long way, and frustration will only make them resist more.
Sometimes, going back to diapers at times where you wouldn’t have needed to at home, might make sense for everyone’s sanity.
Bring a Travel Potty
If your child is used to a little potty at home, consider bringing one with you. We travel with the My Carry Potty, which is lightweight, leak-proof, and easy to carry around. Having a familiar potty can make a huge difference, especially if public restrooms are few and far between. Plus, it saves you from emergency roadside stops where you’re frantically searching for a tree to squat behind.
The “Special Airplane Only” Diaper Trick
For flights, I recommend using a pull-up or diaper. But since wording matters with toddlers, we call it the “special airplane only diaper.” This helps keep them from feeling like they’re backtracking while still preventing accidents during times when a bathroom might not be available.
We always let our son know that he can still ask to go potty, and if we’re able to take him, we absolutely will.
Preemptive Bathroom Visits
Before takeoff and immediately after landing, we always make a bathroom stop. Whether my son says he needs to go or not, we try. Airport bathrooms – especially the amazing family bathroom – are much easier to deal with than trying to wrestle a toddler into an airplane lavatory mid-flight.
Cover the Automatic Flush Sensors
Automatic toilets are a menace to potty-training toddlers. One unexpected flush, and they’re terrified forever. To avoid the trauma, I bring sticky notes or a piece of tape to cover the sensor.
The Airplane Bathroom Battle
Even with the best intentions, some kids will flat-out refuse to use the airplane bathroom. It’s loud, cramped, and honestly kind of scary. If they won’t go, don’t stress too much—this is where that “special airplane diaper” comes in handy. We still offer, but we don’t push it if he’s too scared.
Rewarding Success
We personally use Skittles as a potty reward while traveling. Some families prefer stickers, a special dance, or just enthusiastic praise—do whatever works for you! The key is making potty breaks a positive experience so they feel encouraged to keep up the habit, even in new places.
Final Thoughts
Potty training on the road isn’t easy, but it’s definitely manageable with some preparation. Expect setbacks, bring a travel potty, prepare for flights with a pull-up, and use tricks like covering automatic flush sensors to make the process smoother. And above all, don’t stress too much—kids pick up on that. A little patience and a lot of Skittles go a long way!
