We all love vacations, don’t we? Well, it may be that time of the year when we really cannot leave our kids at home while we have fun. It’s very important that when we take vacations, we do it as a family. One thing you want to know is that kids love vacations. However, you’ll still want to keep an eye on them because it can always not work your way when dealing with hyperactive kids.
Did you know that you really don’t have to take your kids to Disney world for them to have ultimate fun? All it takes is some family time and a good vacation. At times, it may feel like you are the only one struggling to keep it together when traveling with your kids. Don’t worry, there are millions of other parents feel the same way. This having been said, let’s take a look at how to enjoy and remain calm while traveling with your kids.
When Planning, Always Leave Plenty of Time
Before you embark on your vacation, it’s always good to plan ahead of time. Unlike in times when you travel alone, you want to ensure that you’ve left out plenty of time to cover up for some slackness. When you travel with your children, sometimes the best approach is to do exactly the opposite of what you’d do when traveling alone.
Did you know that when traveling with your family, it might take you twice the time it would when traveling by yourself? It may take you an hour to check in at the airport, but when with kids, be sure you’ll need an extra hour! This is why you need to leave plenty of time if you want to be punctual and still enjoy your time.
Book A Cozy, Comfortable Hotel in Advance
Regardless of the type of your vacation or how long it lasts; one thing is for sure… accommodation is one of the most important factors to consider way in advance. To get the most out of your vacation and remain calm, it’s best that you book into a hotel that will guarantee your comfort, one that will allow you to relax and have peace of mind after a long day of vacation activities with kids. June from A Quiet Refuge says that noise from traffic, clubs and other sources outside the hotel room can be a major disruptor to calmness and comfort. This makes it important for you to ask if the accommodation rooms are soundproofed, preferably with acoustic foam panels. It should also be apt with amenities, spacious and comfortable enough for you and your family. Security should also be guaranteed, especially since kids can be really daring at times and you don’t want to be left worried after your kids sneak out of the facility.
Ensure That Your Kids Have Your Contact Information
One thing you need to know is that with kids, anything can happen. And we can’t run away from the fact that, especially in playgrounds, carnivals, and parks where there are many people, your kids can easily get lost. Even in your best efforts, losing a child is still a possible reality. Just the thought of it is reason enough to keep you not only vigilant, but sometimes it can be a source of restlessness. If you’re well prepared, though, your kid can still manage to easily find you if they have some solid details of your contact information, including the following.
- Your full names
- Your phone number
- Your email address
- Your local address
Younger kids may not have the capacity to remember all this information. In their pockets, ensure to leave a handy note with most of your contact information. If there are no pockets, be creative and figure out a way for them to have the contacts. This will help you travel with peace of mind.
Avoid Over Packing
It’s not a must that your kids pack all the toys they use at home, not forgetting that you really don’t want to be the one ending up with sore arms. Take into account the fact that you can always buy new things wherever you go. However, you want to be extra cautious with this rule when traveling to less developed countries. The less you pack, the easier it will be for you to have enough room in the car to connect better with your kids. In addition to this, you also need some room for some souvenirs.
Explain the Trip to Your Kids
One thing that is true about kids is that when they are uncomfortable, you may lose your cool! It’s very important that before embarking on the trip with your kids, you explain it to them way ahead of time. This is especially the case for those traveling for the first time. Your kids will always tend to be uncomfortable when dealing with new things or places. Once they are well aware of what to expect, they are less likely to pester you with a million questions. This, therefore, gives you a better opportunity to take care of the travel logistics with the much-needed calmness.
Carry Some Snacks
The last thing you want is your kids throwing tantrums just because they are hungry. This can be quite embarrassing, especially if it happens in front of people! To avoid this, make sure that you’ve carried enough snacks for everyone. And just don’t do it for the sake of it… rather, it’s good to ensure that it’s their favorite. One thing that is true in every kid is that they can take a fun trip but end up making it a miserable one every time they have a rumbling tummy. For this reason, bringing some snacks along could go a long way into bringing some calmness to you.
Buckle Up!
One thing you want to prioritize on is the safety of your kids. This doesn’t really matter how far or close the trip will be. No matter the level of excitement, just make sure that your kids are within sight. Let’s take a look at some ways to ensure that your kids are safe throughout the whole trip.
On The Plane
- They need to be settled in their own seats (car seats need to be AAP approved for kids less than 2years old)
- They need to be belted at all times
- Ensure to accompany your kids to the lavatory
At the Motel/Hotel
- Scan the room for dangerous objects
- Ensure that the room is child proofed
- Ask if they have childcare
- Do not allow your child to answer the door
- Ensure that play areas and swimming pools are age appropriate for your kids
With all these things put into consideration, you’ll not only ensure the safety of your child, but in addition to this, you’ll maintain your cool.
Carry along Basic Medication
Bringing along some basic medication will go a long way into helping keep everyone safe as well as in avoiding unforeseeable circumstances. Your kid is bound to have some stomach upset as a result of a bumpy ride. It is, therefore, important to consider having the following over the counter meds with you at all times;
- Allergy medication
- Medicine to prevent motion sickness
- Headache medication (painkillers)
- Any other medication that may apply to your family
Whenever possible, if one of your kids is taking prescription medication, ensure that you bring such a long.
Most parents are so worried when it comes to traveling with their kids that in most cases, they’ll opt to travel alone or put off the whole trip. New experiences will help to open your child’s horizons as well as excite them. With the above tips, you’ll enjoy your travels, your kids will love it, and you’ll be calm through it all.
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