Traveling is the second-fastest-growing economic sector in the world. In other words, traveling is more popular than ever.
So if you’re wanting to hit the road for a family trip, that’s a great idea. But anyone who has traveled with kids before knows that it brings its own set of difficulties.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide outlining the top travel advice for surviving a vacation with kids. Keep reading to learn more.
Hotel vs. House: How to Choose
First and foremost, let’s talk about some of our top travel advice: accommodations. Whenever possible, it’s usually preferable to rent an Airbnb or VRBO where you can spread out.
For example, if you have a baby or toddler who goes to bed at 8 pm, do you really want to be stuck in a hotel room with the lights off for the rest of the night?
If you get a house, you’ll be able to put the kids in a separate room when it’s time to go to bed. That way, you can enjoy some relaxing downtime after they’re asleep.
The downside of renting a home instead of booking a hotel is the lack of amenities. For example, you probably won’t have a pool with slides or a kids club with books, activities, and toys.
Keep this in mind as you’re deciding. And if you need to make a compromise, see if you can find a hotel with a separate suite or kitchenette so you can still spread out a little.
Think About Flights
Planning on flying to your destination? Then this section is for you.
Whenever possible, book a direct flight. Reducing the amount of airport logistics you have to deal with is a great hack when traveling with kids.
But this can be easier said than done. When you’re looking at flight prices online, the cheaper flight with a layover can look more appealing than the direct flight that’s more expensive.
However, the phrase to remember here is to prioritize convenience not cost when it comes to flying with kids. It will be worth it in the end.
For your flight, make sure you’re prepared with the essentials you’ll need for your children. Depending on their age, pack their favorite toys and blankets. Also consider packing tablets with headphones so they can zone out to a movie or game for the duration of the flight.
Traveling with a baby or toddler? Make sure you have all the diapers, wipes, and bottles you need. And it’s always a good idea to pack lots of snacks to keep them happy.
Plan Your Days Appropriately
When you’re only in a city for a few days, it’s tempting to try and see and do everything you can. And if you’re traveling with a group of like-minded adults, this is a great strategy.
But the minute you add kids into the mix, remember this motto: less is more. It’s simply too much to plan a full day of activities every single day of your trip.
Instead, consider only having a half-day of activities planned. Then, with the rest of your day, leave it open for some downtime at your place, a trip to the park, or a visit to the pool.
Want to go to a museum or a major tourist destination like the Space Needle? Do that in the morning and then leave the afternoon for something more relaxed. This strategy will keep both parents and kids happier.
Also remember that kids aren’t going to enjoy the same activities as adults. In other words, don’t make the whole trip a bunch of stops at historical sites and museums.
Some of this is fine, but it’s about balance. Instead, also plan in more kid-friendly activities along the way.
Feeling stressed planning your trip? DeepCBD could help calm you down.
Let’s Talk About Food
Last but not least, think about food. When you’re on vacation, your normal meal routine is interrupted. And it’s easy for your kids to overdo it on the junk food.
When this happens, they can experience sugar crashes and mood swings. So to combat this, bring some healthier snacks with you like nuts, fruit, and cheese.
However, at the same time, it’s a good idea to adjust your expectations. It’s okay for your kids to eat more sweets than normal when on vacation. That’s part of the fun.
If you’re in a different country, it’s also totally normal for your kids to want something familiar. After lots of local cuisine, some chicken nuggets might be exactly what they want. And that’s okay.
To accomplish this, look for restaurants that have at least one item your kids will eat. And then once you’re there you can try to get them to try something new. But if they don’t want to, don’t sweat it.
You’ll all be happier if you’re well-fed with something that hits the spot. And if mac and cheese is what does that for your kids, so be it.
Now You Know the Top Travel Advice for a Trip With Your Kids
There you have it: the top travel advice for traveling with kids. While going on a trip with your children is a different experience than going with your spouse or a group of friends, it can be incredibly fun and rewarding.
The key is to plan ahead so that you’re prepared. This preparation will go a long way.
Want to learn more? Check out our blog for additional tips and tricks about travel.
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