Are you planning a family holiday but dreading the chaos of traveling with children?
Don’t worry; with the right preparation and a little creativity, you can have a fantastic adventure with your kids in tow.
It’s a question I get asked regularly, I’m a mum of 2 little girls, and a huge fan of travelling! So people always say “what are your top tips?” …
Here are my top tips for stress-free travel with kids:
- Plan Ahead: Start by researching your destination and accommodations. Look for family-friendly hotels or villa rentals that offer amenities for children, like play areas, kid’s clubs, or pools. Or even better ask your travel agent to make suggestions!
- Pack Smart: Create a packing list that includes essentials like nappies, wipes, extra clothing, and snacks. (Extra clothes for the adults too, my kids love to spill drinks over me on the flight!!!). Don’t forget comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket to help your child feel at home.
- Travel During Sleep Time: Whenever possible, plan your travel to coincide with your child’s sleep schedule. This can make long flights or car rides much more manageable.
- Entertainment: Bring a variety of entertainment options for your child, such as books, colouring books, puzzles, and electronic devices. Headphones are a must for keeping the peace on planes and in public spaces. I highly recommend the mini play dough set for young children, it kept mine entertained for ages on my last flight!
- Snack Attack: Pack an assortment of snacks that your child enjoys. Hungry kids can become cranky, so having their favorite treats on hand can prevent meltdowns.
- Engage in Games: Plan simple games or activities for the journey, like “I Spy” or travel-themed bingo. This can help keep kids occupied and excited about the trip.
- Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your plans to your child’s needs. Sometimes, a change of schedule or an extra stop may be necessary to keep everyone happy.
- Safety First: Ensure your child’s safety with appropriate car seats or booster seats, and always have necessary first-aid supplies on hand.
- Educational Opportunities: Use travel as an opportunity to educate your child about new cultures, places, and people. Explore local museums or historical sites that can captivate their curiosity.
- Involve Kids in Planning: Depending on their age, involve your children in planning the trip. Let them choose an activity or a place to visit. It makes them feel more invested in the journey.
- Time for Rest: Schedule downtime into your itinerary. Kids can get overstimulated, so make sure there’s time for naps and relaxation.
- Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when you need it. Flight attendants, hotel staff, and even fellow travellers can be understanding and supportive.
- Document the Journey: Encourage your child to keep a travel journal or take photos to remember the trip. This can be a fun and creative way to capture memories.
- Prepare for Jet Lag: If you’re crossing time zones, help your child adjust by gradually shifting their schedule before departure. Stick to a regular sleep routine as much as possible.
- Stay Positive: Children are perceptive, so maintain a positive attitude. If you’re excited and relaxed, it will set the tone for the whole family.
I seriously need to remember this one, I’m already in panic mode about embarking on a 17 hour flight with my 3 year old & 6 year old in February, stay tuned to see how that goes!!!
With these tips in mind, you can look forward to a fantastic family adventure with your kids. Travelling with children may require some extra effort, but the memories you create together will be well worth it.
To book your next trip, or chat about family friendly destinations, get in touch!
T. 01633 897002
E. sales@thetravelbusiness.co.uk
A. 12a Risca Road, Newport, NP20 4JW.
