Traveling with kids…

It’s been a minute and I apologize. As the summer is here and the kids are out, there are some planning vacations. As most of us know, traveling in general is hectic but when you add kids to the mix, that brings on other challenges. However, it’s exciting to see them so excited. So, I thought maybe some tips to help the journey just a little smoother.

1. Research your destination: helps you keep track of the weather, accommodations that you would need to make, and activities that adults and kids can partake in. You will want to check out kid-friendly restaurants (there are some adult only restaurants out here).
2. Essentials: packing necessary toys, snacks, books, electronic devices (anything that you will allow as the parent) to keep your kid entertained. Especially if you are traveling by car, train, or plane. Also, do not forget any medication or a travel size first-aid kit. You just never know. Below is a sample of what I’m using to keep my kid occupied during our flight.

3. Documentation: This is very important. Check the area you plan to visit and look at their policies on what is needed or required. When we travel, I keep a copy of my child’s birth certificate, passport, and our insurance cards. This is for precaution, just because you never know with cell phones or what could happen. I also have a saved email of everyone’s documents.

During Travels:

1. I keep a blanket and neck pillow in the car or take these items on either plane or train (it gets pretty cold to me). Side note: I’m considered the blanket Queen. I have a collection of blankets for me and my daughter. 🙂
2. Make sure you leave at a reasonable time. If you are going by car, account for gas/food stops, traffic (if possible), and stretching. If you are wanting to get there at a certain time. Now when it comes to flights, I will leave to get to the airport 3 hours prior to my departure.

Arrival:

1. Let’s be honest here, the kids usually sleep most of the way during a car ride. I know mines do. So, I make sure there’s bathroom breaks. We will grab something to eat once we get to our destination.
2. I usually keep an itinerary for every trip we take, so we can visit the places we want to see.
3. In any place you go, whether alone or with kids, you would want to pay attention to your surroundings. Safety is your priority with traveling with kids, even more in unfamiliar places.

Activities:

A few activities I like to consider when traveling with kids would be:

1. Zoo
2. Amusement parks
3. Muséums (children’s museum or general)
4. Exhibits
5. Sight-seeing
6. Boat rides and the list goes on depending on age.

General Tips:

1. Engagement: I like to plan activities based on my child learning style, when I can. Planning activities to keep the kids excited about the trip.
2. Food selection: if you have a picky eater like I do, I highly recommend keeping snacks. But, researching restaurants in the area you’re going to be in. It helps instead of researching when you’re there and they’re hungry at that moment.

Another note: If you’re flying and can get lounge passes, I highly recommend it!! Along with TSA pre-check. I know the summer travels are insane, but it can make a difference.