Traveling with kids: Family Travel Tips for Parents

Going on a vacation can be gruelling. Traveling with kids can be even more daunting. Vacationing can be fun for kids. They get to be in a new environment, try new foods and experience new activities. However, the task of preparation and travel with children has proven to be a demanding task for some parents. Not to worry, these tips will put you on the right track and make your family vacation stress-free.

Before You Go

Do Research

Research is necessary before putting your kids on a plane to a different country. You need to know if where you intend to go to is safe for you and your children. You also need to know if they have activities that children can enjoy.

Another thing to find out about is what the weather will be like. You should know the weather your children favour and set your family vacation for that time.

Summertime is a very popular vacation period for most families. This is because the weather condition is favourable for fun outdoor activities.

Get All Necessary Documents

Children need passports when travelling out of the country, even infants. To get this ready, you should visit an immigration office close to you. If they already have passports, you should check the expiry dates. Some countries have policies about how long your passport must be valid before you travel. You also need to get tickets for your kids – although children under 2 years can sit on your lap on the plane.

Settle Accommodation

You cannot land in a new country with children and then start looking for a place to stay. You need to sort this out before you go. You need to decide if you want to stay in a hotel or if you want to rent a house. Whichever is more convenient for you and your family is what you should choose.

It is advisable to make payment so your slot will be secured. You might get there and they may be fully booked, leaving you and your family with nowhere to stay. This preparation is very necessary and should be at the top of your list.

Pack Only Necessary Items

Many parents want to make a new country as familiar as possible to their kids. This is why they try to pack everything that will make them feel like they are home.

This is a smart idea. However, if you find yourself packing what is not necessary, you will have problems. You cannot predict what the space where you will be staying will look like. Having too much luggage in a small space, with children, will not be comfortable.

During the Flight

Flight Time = Nap Time

Some children find it difficult to settle during flights. Maybe from excitement or nerves, they are restless. To avoid this, align the time for your flight with their nap time. Their body will lull them to sleep.

Another thing you can do is provide some distraction, like books or toys. This will calm their nerves and make the flight more relaxing (for you).

Sit in the Right Place

Generally, flight attendants will show you where to sit but it is advised that children don’t stay in the aisle seat. This is because of the moving carts along the aisle. They can easily dunk their hands in hot water or hot coffee. That can cause injury and a sour mood for the vacation.

You do not want your vacation to be ruined before it begins, do you? Then make sure you sit at the right place.

Prepare for Flight Vibrations

Many children have problems when flights are taking off and landing. These vibrations may be uncomfortable for them and may cause tantrums. This may be a good time to feed them. That will distract them from the vibrations.

You can also give them gum to chew (if they are old enough to know not to swallow it). You should also note that the air pressure in planes is different and can cause some pain. You should be prepared for this.

When You Land

Once you have landed and settled, there are other tips that can make your vacation more fun and safer.

Use Public Transportation

Using the train or a public bus is good for children. Some children have not been on a train before. It will be good for them to experience something new. It can also be a means for them to see the country. Some form of unplanned sightseeing.

Entertaining Activities

If they are old enough, you should let your kids choose the activity they want to do for the day. Of course, you must have a list of all the activities you intend for them to engage in.

Just present them with the list and let them make their selection. Remember to include as many activities as you can afford.

Safety

You should always look out for your kids, especially in environments you are not familiar with. They might wander off and get lost. Their safety and yours should be the top priority.

Opeyemi Kareem

About Author

Opeyemi Kareem

Opeyemi Kareem is a model student of the University of Lagos who writes interesting and captivating content. She is an avid reader and learner with hopes of becoming a published author someday.

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