Whether you are planning a trip of a lifetime or a summer getaway, travelling with children can certainly be a challenge. I don’t have kids of my own but I certainly had a fair share of headaches and frustrations caused by these unruly little monsters being the eldest of all six kids and having to be the one in charge whenever and wherever we go. It can really be a pain however, a smooth family vacation is just a few steps away with this handy guide full of top tips for keeping the little ones happy throughout the journey.
1. Plan for Success
Proper planning is essential for a stress-free trip that does not break the bank. It helps you to keep to your budget, and you can get the whole family involved in the process. Discuss the sights and activities available at your destination, and let everyone have some say in what you do. If the trip is still way down the line, it might also be wise to look into acquiring a credit card that can give you more purchasing options. Getting children involved in the planning will help them to get excited and feel like it is their holiday too. If you are travelling with little ones, in particular, you may need more time between stops, so plan your itinerary with extra breaks.
2. Be Prepared
Think like the scouts and always be prepared for your trip! Check to see what is available at the resort, and pack smart. If you are travelling to a hot country, choose clothes that are made from natural fibres, such as cotton, and make sure that you have clean clothes to hand. Keep all your paperwork organised and in one place. If there is a safe at the hotel, keep everything locked away. However, you should check the law in that country, as you may be obligated to carry ID at all times. It is also important that you carry any medical information with you, as well as a contact telephone number in case of an emergency.
3. Health and Safety
Always make sure that you have full travel insurance for the family and that you have had the proper vaccinations for your destination. Having a first aid kit means that you will be able to deal with any minor injuries yourself. Keep a copy of the emergency telephone numbers, and reinforce your family’s strategy for stranger danger.
4. Be Flexible
Okay, I know we said plan for success, but you will need an element of flexibility as well. You may not be able to get around everything that you want to see with the children in tow, or sometimes they might not be in the right mood on the day. Have back-up plans, research the areas that you are going to, and embrace every experience with an open mind.
5. Entertain the Whole Family
It may be wise to choose a resort that has lots going on for the whole family or child-friendly accommodation with kid’s entertainment and a pool on site. Keeping the kids entertained during the journey is probably the hardest part, so think of travel games. Pack appropriate soft toys, drinks and snacks to keep the little ones happy throughout the journey. Alternatively, tablets are a great way to keep children busy – particularly if you load it up with movies for the trip. But don’t forget to plan some alone time – you also deserve some time to relax. If there are two adults, make some time for each one to go off and do something. Whether it is heading off to the local golf course for a couple of rounds or relaxing in the spa,a couple of hours’ peace and quiet will ensure that you get the holiday you need, too.
There you have it lovelies! Have you been travelling with the little ones before or is planning to do so. Do you have helpful tips to share? Drop them on the comments and let’s chat. Until next time. Ciao!
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