Tips for Traveling with Kids

Tips for Traveling with Kids Traveling with kids can be a wonderful and enriching experience for the whole family. It allows you to create lasting memories, bond with your loved ones, and expose your children to new cultures and experiences. However, it can also be a bit challenging at times. To help you make the most of your family adventures, we have put together the below tips. 1. Plan Ahead: Before embarking on your trip, it's important to plan ahead. Research your destination and find family-friendly activities and attractions. Look for accommodations that cater to families, such as hotels with kids' clubs or vacation rentals with ample space for everyone. If staying at a house, map out local parks and walking/biking routes. Make a list of must-see sights and create a flexible itinerary that allows for downtime and rest. 2. Pack Wisely: When traveling with kids, packing efficiently is key. Make a checklist of essential items such as clothing, toiletries, and medications. Don't forget to pack entertainment for the little ones, such as books, coloring books, and small toys. It's also a good idea to bring snacks and drinks to keep them satisfied during long journeys. If checking luggage and you have young kids, make sure you pack an emergency set of underwear and change of clothes for both you and your kids - I learned this the hard way after forgetting to pack something for myself then getting peed or puked on! 3. Keep Them Engaged: Long flights or car rides can be challenging for kids. Keep them engaged and entertained by bringing along their favorite books, games, or electronic devices. You can also play interactive games like "I Spy" or "20 Questions" to keep them entertained and distracted. For long layovers at airports, we like easy to pack games like cards, Spot It!, and Nacho Pile. 4. Embrace the Unexpected: Traveling with kids often means that things don't always go as planned. Be flexible and embrace the unexpected. Allow for spontaneous detours or changes in your itinerary. Sometimes the best memories are made when you go with the flow and embrace the unexpected. Until Sienna hit 4 years, we kept reservations to a minimum to keep ourselves from stressing out unnecessarily if a nap went too long or she was just having a rough day. 5. Involve the Kids: Get your kids involved in the planning process. Let them choose a few activities or attractions that they are excited about. This will make them feel more invested in the trip and give them a sense of ownership. It's also a great opportunity to teach them about budgeting and decision-making. Once Sienna is old enough, we are going to start asking each family member to pick a destination that they want to visit and create a short presentation on it with a majority rules vote to determine where we are heading next! 6. Take Breaks: Traveling can be tiring for everyone, especially young children. Make sure to schedule regular breaks and downtime. This will give everyone a chance to recharge and relax. It's also a great opportunity to explore local parks or playgrounds and let the kids burn off some energy. 7. Be Prepared for Meltdowns: Let's face it, meltdowns happen, especially when kids are tired or overwhelmed. Be prepared for tantrums and have a plan in place to handle them. Take a deep breath, stay calm, and try to address the issue calmly and patiently. Sometimes a change of scenery or a snack can work wonders. Remember, traveling with kids is all about creating memories and enjoying quality time together as a family. Embrace the challenges, stay flexible, and savor every moment. Happy travels!