Here's How Google is Making Travel More Sustainable!

Since the launch of OpenAI, We’ve all been using ChatGpt to plan our next trip. Not only does it help you plan your whole itinerary to fit your budget, but AI is also able to suggest you the hotspots to visit. Although this has been the latest buzz in the travel community, Google is set to take things up a notch as well to help you travel more sustainably. Just a few weeks ago, Google shared some exciting updates, revealing its plans to introduce some cool AI-powered features in some of its products!

If you’re planning a trip, what are some of the first things you do? Looking up the best countries to visit this summer? What are the most budget-friendly travel spots? What are the visa requirements? How can I travel more sustainably? We all go to Google to find the answers to some of these pressing travel questions. Although Google has always been a reliable source, where travellers share their top secrets, things are about to get better. As Google continues to improve its travel-friendly features, there are going to be some exciting updates to its Maps, Search, Flights as well as Hotel products. According to Skift, some of these features are going to be powered by Google’s Gemini generative AI technology.

How to Plan a Trip with Google’s Latest Updates

If you’ve been struggling to plan out your travel itinerary, Google’s latest AI-powered trip planner might be your saviour. That’s not all, Google has introduced a lot more options for travellers to enjoy!

Find transport alternatives with Google: With its latest expansion, travellers can find train schedules as well as ticket prices. This feature is directly linked to the search, showing the schedules and prices for 38 different countries. This includes Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, the UK, and the U.S. Additionally you can also use this feature to look for buses. If you’re travelling to Brazil, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, the UK, or the U.S., this might come in handy!
Locate charging stations: As travellers choose more sustainable options, it has become increasingly important to locate the nearest charging stations. This update is built into the Maps app of electric vehicles. This update allows drivers to locate charging stations. The best part is that you can get the wait times, charging speed and reviews from other travellers. You can also turn on the new feature to spot hotels that have vehicle charging stations!
Calculate your Carbon Emission with Google: If you want to calculate your carbon emission, you can now also do that through Google. In addition to finding estimated emissions for flights, you can also get flight suggestions through Google’s Travel Impact Model. You can now figure out your carbon emissions through this emissions calculator!

Traveling with toddlers or young kids often feels overwhelming, but when you prepare well, your family adventure becomes smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Whether you’re flying short distances or tackling a long-haul journey, these practical travel tips will help you navigate airports, planes, and destinations with confidence. From smart packing to calming meltdowns, here’s your essential guide to flying with kids.

1. Tire Out Toddlers Before the Flight

Let your kids burn off energy at the airport before boarding. Visit a children’s play area or soft play zone near your gate if your airport has one. Encourage running, climbing, and moving around to help them settle once you board. If play areas aren’t available, take brisk walks through the terminal or let them climb stairs to stay active.

2. Choose the Best Seats for Comfort and Convenience

Book the right seats to improve everyone’s comfort. On long-haul flights, grab seats in the middle section of the emergency exit row for extra space and easy bathroom access. Choose window seats to entertain kids with views during takeoff and landing.

3. Take Advantage of Early Boarding

Use early boarding to get your family settled without the crowd. Most airlines offer pre-boarding for families with young children. Use this time to stash carry-ons, set up car seats, and get kids comfortable before the aisles fill up. Ask staff politely for help with strollers or expedited security if needed.

4. Pack Smart and Light Without Skipping Essentials

Streamline your packing without sacrificing toddler must-haves. Borrow or rent bulky items like strollers and car seats at your destination to reduce your load. Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and essentials in your carry-on. Use a multi-compartment “snackle box” filled with your child’s favorite treats to keep them busy and satisfied during the flight.

5. Manage Ear Pressure with Easy Solutions

Prevent ear pain during takeoff and landing. Offer your baby a pacifier or bottle. Give older toddlers something to chew—like a dissolvable lollipop or gum. Teach them to yawn or blow gently while pinching their nose. Use saline sprays if they have a stuffy nose to avoid added discomfort.

6. Bring Comfort Items and Entertainment

Create a travel “goodie bag” to keep kids entertained and comforted. Include familiar items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, along with quiet toys, coloring books, child-friendly headphones, and a tablet loaded with shows or games. Bring an inflatable footrest or cushion to help them stretch out and rest comfortably.

7. Plan Flights and Stopovers Around Your Toddler’s Routine

Book night flights to align with your child’s sleep schedule and reduce jet lag. Plan stopovers carefully—choose longer layovers if they offer a chance to nap, eat, or play. When possible, adjust your toddler’s sleep routine a few days before travel to ease the transition.

8. Stay Flexible and Embrace the Chaos

Build flexibility into your travel plans. Avoid overloading your itinerary and allow time for snacks, bathroom breaks, or detours. Stay calm during tantrums and respond with patience. When you embrace the unpredictable moments, you create better experiences and lower everyone’s stress levels.

9. Use Family-Friendly Accommodations and Airlines

Book hotels or vacation rentals that cater to families. Look for places with high chairs, cribs, separate sleeping spaces, or kid-friendly amenities like pools and play areas. Fly with airlines known for family service—many offer toddler meals, in-flight entertainment packs, and helpful staff. Confirm stroller policies and bring travel accessories like seat extenders or portable beds to enhance comfort on board.

10. Travel with Extra Support

Bring friends, family, or a partner whenever possible. Shared childcare lightens your load and allows everyone a break. If you’re flying solo, ask airline or airport staff for help and plan to meet local support at your destination. A little assistance goes a long way.

Make Your Next Family Flight a Breeze

Flying with toddlers doesn’t have to feel like a mission. When you plan smart, pack efficiently, and stay adaptable, you make family travel easier and more fun. Whether it’s your child’s first flight or one of many, each journey creates lasting memories. Use these travel tips to keep your toddler happy and your stress levels low. You’ve got this—happy travels!

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Feature Image: Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Here’s How Google is Making Travel More Sustainable!