Anyone who has had the experience of being stuck in a plane 10,000 feet above ground with a screaming child will know that traveling with children is not for the faint-hearted. Forgetting about the smallest thing could potentially make your vacation a nightmare.
To make traveling with children as pleasant as possible, here are some tips that will help any family make their trips fun and memorable:
This may be a no brainer, but one of the most important things about traveling with kids is planning ahead. This means booking your flights and accommodation, shopping for the things you need and knowing exactly where you're going. This way, you'll know what to expect when you're traveling.
If you're going to a cottage a thousand miles away from the city, make sure to pack all the supplies you need. There's nothing worse than running out of diapers in the middle of nowhere.
Knowing where you're going also allows you to google map where the closest convenience store is. You'll never know what else you'll run out of.
If you're traveling by car or by plane, make sure to keep your children occupied. If they have a favorite toy, then make a note to bring it along with you. If luggage space is an issue, then let them carry a small backpack. A small backpack can carry a toy, a single diaper and some snacks.
Don't forget to pack a small surprise for your children. This could come really handy once they start feeling restless in their seats. Packing a surprise, like a small coloring book, can keep them occupied while traveling.
Once you've arrived at your vacation spot, settle down and organize your things. This way you can get your bearings and check if there's anything you've missed while packing.
If you're planning to go sightseeing, allow plenty of time to get there. This way you're not rushing your children. Remember, kids will whine and complain if they're not enjoying themselves. Make it a point to ask if they need to use the toilet. Avoiding toilet accidents will make the trip easier on you.
Traveling with kids can be a nightmare. But by following the above tips, you can be rest assured that your vacation can be relaxing. Just the way it's meant to be.