We all know that traveling with kids can become a struggle, but don't worry! Here's an article by Daniel Sherwin on some tips.
Traveling with Kids: Tips to Make It Easier on the Whole Family
When summer rolls around, many families start planning for a vacation. But traveling with kids
can be a headache for everyone, especially if you aren’t prepared. That’s why it’s so important to
start with a good plan and to have the right tools for your needs from the get-go. Knowing how
to keep your child safe, happy, comfortable, and entertained will help your family get through
the travel portion of your trip with ease and reduce stress on your end.
The best way to get started is to remember that it’s good to have a plan, but when you overplan,
things can turn sour very quickly. Sticking to a tight schedule can lead to frustration for little
ones who tire easily or need to take a break from being in the car, so loosen up a little and
remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. If staying organized helps you
reduce anxiety and stress, make out a schedule but factor in lots of pit stops and ways to keep
your little ones entertained.
Keep reading for some great tips on how to make traveling easier on the whole family.
Plan Out Your Route
If you’re taking a road trip, it’s important to plan out your route and fill it with plenty of stops so
everyone can get out and stretch their legs. Do some research online beforehand, and take a look
at a map to find some fun activities are along the way; this way, you can stick to a schedule more
easily than if you decide to take a detour. You might hit up a museum or roadside attraction, or
just stop at a local restaurant that you wouldn’t have the chance to go to normally.
Keep Everyone Safe
Whether you’re traveling by road or by air, it’s important to make sure everyone stays safe. You
might dress your kids in the same bright color so they’ll be easy to spot in a crowded airport, or
write your phone number on a bracelet that each child can wear in case you get separated. Talk
to your kids about what to do in case they get lost or need help, and make sure everyone knows
Mom and Dad’s names; you might be surprised to find that your 5-year-old isn’t aware that your
first name isn’t “Mommy”!
Safety is just as important when you arrive at your destination as well. Do some research ahead
of time so that you can adequately prepare. For example, Big Bear Lake is a premier destination
spot in Southern California, boasting mild summers and snow-white winters, so be sure you pack
accordingly. There are plenty of recreational activities on both land and water, such as hiking,
sailing, fishing, paddle boarding, biking, skiing, and snow tubing to name just a few, so bring the
appropriate safety gear.
Make Sleep Easy
Many kids have trouble sleeping away from home, sometimes due to sheer discomfort; this can
lead to cranky kiddos and frustrated parents. Hotel beds are very different from the one they’re
used to, so make rest easier by allowing your child to bring his own pillow and blanket or
sleeping bag. You can ask for extra blankets to pile on and make the mattress a little softer, too.
For little ones, providing a clean, safe spot to sleep can be tricky during travel. Consider using a
travel crib, which folds down easily to be stored in a carrying bag and can be set up just about
anywhere with a stable surface. This is a great alternative to allowing your baby to sleep on a
hotel bed surrounded by pillows and will give you peace of mind during the trip. Find more
information on the different types of travel cribs and their benefits here.
Some destinations are better for kids than others. Do some research online to choose the best
spot to visit with little ones, which will give you a good idea of what to pack and how much you
want to spend. Rough Guides has some great ideas on international travel destinations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor; with a good plan, you and your
family will have a blast while staying safe, comfortable, and happy.