Traveling with kids can be a fun and enriching experience for the whole family. My oldest has been traveling since she was 3 months old and my youngest took her first trip at 10 months cross country to California. I enjoy traveling with both kids and many times I have done trips solo so it adds an extra layer of fun. However, it can also be a bit of a challenge if you're not prepared. Here are some tips to help make your family vacation more enjoyable:
Plan ahead: Before you leave, make sure you have everything you need for your trip. This includes packing plenty of snacks, drinks, and activities to keep your kids entertained during the journey. I love using Stoney Clover Backpacks and pouches to help with organization. JuJube also makes great mom diaper bag backpacks and totes perfect for those traveling with little ones.
Get your kids involved: Let your kids help you plan the trip by choosing activities and destinations they're interested in. This will help keep them engaged and excited throughout the trip. I like to have coloring sheets and fun games for on the plane or car as well to assist with keeping things fun.
Stay Close to Everything: Book hotels or vacation rentals near where you want to be. I know it's easy to say let's save money by being farther out but the negatives tend to hit. It's easier to get back to your place when closer, less money spent on gas, being closer typically means you have access to more dining options as well. We love to book hotels that offer suites or rental homes that have a kitchen for us to enjoy meals on our own.
Be flexible: Traveling with kids can be unpredictable, so it's important to be flexible and open to changes in your itinerary. Don't be afraid to adjust your plans if necessary to accommodate your kids' needs.
Take breaks: Make sure to take plenty of breaks during your trip to give your kids a chance to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. This will help them stay more focused and calm during the journey. Pool breaks, down town in a hotel, maybe just a walk are all great ways to take breaks especially if you have a busy schedule when traveling.
Be prepared for emergencies: Make sure you have a first-aid kit, any necessary medications, and important documents with you at all times in case of an emergency. You never know when something may just pop up.
Rent your travel needs for kids: I learned many trips ago this is a great way to reduce stress when traveling with youngsters. BabyQuip is a great baby gear rental company that has items delivered right to where you need. From Car Seats to Strollers you name it you can find a provider in a area you are traveling to meet your needs.
Fly Early or Late: We love traveling on a red-eye or super early morning flight with our kids. We find them to be ready to nap at those times so it's seamless. We will use our easy travel lite stroller to get the youngest through the airport. We have used JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier and Delta when flying and have had great experiences. Frontier has worked best for us budget wise and we have never had one issue.
Remember, traveling with kids can be a great way to create lasting memories and bond as a family. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a fun and stress-free vacation. Until our next expedition....