Vacations are supposed to be the most enjoyable experiences of your entire year. You work hard, save harder, and expect to get a reward at the end of it. And, for the vast majority of people, they tend to be a success. However, once you throw in a young family into the mix, things can take a turn for the worst.
In fact, even the most luxurious trip away can become a hard labor when you have young kids in tow. They aren’t used to their surroundings, and it can all be too much for them, leaving you to pick up the pieces. Every second of every day.
But, it doesn’t have to be like this. With the right plan in place, your vacation with your young family can still be relaxing and awesome. You just need to put a little work in beforehand. In this guide, we’re going to reveal some fantastic travel tips for a stress-free vacation. Read on our travel tips and never fear a holiday again!
Plan ahead
Make sure you have lots of plans in place well before your travel date. Ring or email the airport in advance to make sure you understand all the rules on what you can and can’t carry. Lots of parents get an awful start to their vacation when they realize they can’t bring large bottles of milk onto the plane, for example. You should also ask about strollers and their overall policy about children on board. We’ll go into flying a little later, but it can be a scary experience for your kids. Flying with a child-friendly airline will, at least, give you some understanding flight attendants.
Travel tips
First of all, make sure you leave plenty of time to get to the airport – particularly if you are going for a long distance. You will need to stop at service stations on a regular basis and let them stretch their legs or give them some fresh air. They will also need some form of entertainment, so prepare a whole stack of games and bring their favorite books and toys. It’s also worth booking your airport parking in advance. Nothing can be so frustrating as having to park miles from your terminal because there is no space close by!
Flight tips
Kids can suffer a great deal on flights, due to the air pressure hurting their ears. You can combat this by bringing them something to suck on, such as a pacifier or a sugar-free candy. You should also be aware that if you have toddlers, they will want to get out of their seats as much as possible. So, make use of the in-flight entertainment, and keep them occupied with more games and books. There are some travelers, unfortunately, that have no time for children at all. It’s best to avoid any confrontations by keeping your kids under some control.
Book activities
You can’t expect too much from your young children, who probably aren’t used to being out and about quite so much. But, you should also book in enough activities to keep them entertained. Kids get bored easily, and nothing is harder work than a cross toddler that is feeling frustrated. Give them something to do every day, however, and you’ll find they go off to sleep a lot quicker – leaving you more time to relax.
Stick to your typical schedule
Sticking to your regular schedule can be tough when you are on vacation. It might be tempting to keep the children up a little later or let them sleep at different times than usual. Try to avoid it, though. Kids thrive on routine, and added to the overwhelming experience of staying in a new place; it can tip them over the edge. If you want some time in the evening to relax, we suggest you stick to your schedule!
Take time out for yourself
The last one of the travel tips is to make sure you get some ‘me-time’ on your vacation, too. Organize days with your partner when you can take turns going off to explore, read a book, or just sleep! It is vital you both get an opportunity to recharge your batteries – it’s what vacations are for, after all. And, of there is the opportunity of a babysitting service, use it! Hotels and resorts often have professional services that will look after your kids while you go for a romantic meal. Again, don’t forget that it is your chance of a break with your partner, as much as your children. And, that special time alone is an essential requirement in our book!