Traveling as an adult is amazing, whether you go for an adventure trip or one centered on relaxation, but sometimes, it can be stressful. Just think of all that planning! Traveling with kids is a whole different ball game, and you can’t just jump into it lightly. Whether you are planning on flying or driving, you need to seriously put in some legwork long before the trip even begins if you want to survive it with your sanity intact. Here are some helpful tips on how to make traveling with kids easier.
Are You Flying?
If you are your young ones are flying, there are a few things you can do to make it as seamless as possible. First of all, pick your airplane seats very strategically. You should always choose the seats closest to the aisle, to make getting up easier, and always pick seats near the bathrooms. If you won’t be in a hurry to reach a connecting flight, choose seats in the back of the plane, since it will mean people won’t be waiting for you to gather your things when it’s time to deplane, and you won’t forget anything in your rush to appease them.
If you’re flying, you also need to make sure that you take things that will keep your kids occupied. Think about everyone else on the plane though and stay away from loud toys that will bother those around you. Remember, not everyone will be sympathetic to a parent traveling with kids and some people just straight-up love to complain about kids on planes. Do everything you can to make this as easy as possible.
You also might want to consider signing up for TSA PreCheck if you are flying with kids, as it will make getting through security so much easier. Kids under 12 can usually go into the pre-check line without your having to buy them a membership too.
Traveling With a Baby?
If you are traveling with a baby, you should think about where that baby is going to sleep once you get to your destination. After all, it is not recommended that a baby sleeps in the same bed as an adult, and they can’t just be plopped onto any bed without safety measures in place. So, you might want to consider getting a travel crib by Guava Family so your little one can safely sleep the night through (meaning you get to sleep too). Find the right one and you will end up with something super portable and easily packed away.
Pack in Advance
The last thing you need when you are traveling with kids is to realize that you forgot to pack something super important. This is why you should always start the packing process far in advance, even as early as four weeks prior to your trip. Make lists, start collecting essentials, figure out the best luggage solutions, plan what toys and snacks you will bring, et cetera. Trust us, you will be super grateful that you planned ahead of time when you reach for the extra allergy pills and they are right where they should be.
Speaking of luggage, you need to make it a rule that all of your children’s bags are either in the form of a backpack or can be wheeled around by the kids (assuming the kids are old enough to handle their own bags, of course). These bags will be less than you have to carry and will make your kids feel like they are helping out. When kids feel like they are pitching in and doing a very important task, they tend to complain a lot less, so give them some reasonable responsibilities!
Teach Your Kids How to Travel
Possibly the most important thing on this list is to talk with your kids before the trip and make sure that they know what to expect and what will be expected of them. For instance, before you leave, you need to instill in them how important it is to take care of their belongings, especially things like passports, and make sure they know that kicking the airplane seat in front of them is not acceptable. Obviously, kids are kids, but anything you can do to prepare them for the trip is better in the long run. You should also use the trip as an opportunity to teach them about travelling in general. Make them feel like they are on an adventure. Going to England? Tell them all about the underground and have them help you read maps. Kids like feeling like they are part of something, so let them feel like they are helping.
Use these helpful tips and your next family vacations is sure to be a success!
