Traveling with Kids Made Easy: Planning a Stress-Free Summer Getaway. For many, summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and family vacations. But, traveling with kids can be a daunting task. Not only when it comes to planning and packing but it’s also worrying about how the trip will go for the little ones. However, with some preparation and helpful tips, traveling with kids can be easy, and you can enjoy a stress-free summer getaway with your loved ones.
Keep Your Snacks Ready
One of the most important aspects of traveling with kids is to ensure that they are well-fed and hydrated. Whether traveling by car or plane, it is important to pack healthy snacks and drinks that are easy to access and consume. When we travel, it doesn’t matter whether by car or plane, we have one bag full of various snacks: from my son’s favorite to some new, from sweet to savory. The reason why we do that, it’s because the little one tends to change his mind at the most unexpected moment. Considering that the little ones are exposed to an entirely new environment, it’s only logical they would suddenly not like their favorite snacks or would like to try new ones.
For example, you can pack fruits, sandwiches, crackers, and yes, even sweets and water bottles to keep your kids nourished and energized throughout the trip.
Don’t Forget The Toys
Kids love toys, and it is vital to pack their favorite toys or introduce them to new ones to keep them entertained during the trip. Depending on how you travel, you can pack different types of toys. For example, if you are traveling by car, you can pack board games, puzzles, coloring books, and a kids’ tablet to keep the little ones entertained. On the other hand, if you travel by plane, you can pack smaller toys such as Legos, dolls, and action figures that can fit in their backpacks.
Before going on a trip, ask your child what toys they want to pack, and prepare their own little backpack so that they can have and carry it all by themselves. It makes them so proud of themselves!
Get the new toys in advance and wrap them like a gift. Get a few little toys rather than a big one. Trust me, it will be a lifesaver, especially if you have long hours of traveling ahead of you!
Traveling by Car
If you are planning a road trip with your kids, it is important to make the journey as comfortable and safe as possible. Ensure your car is serviced and roadworthy before you embark on your trip. Pack a first aid kit, blankets, and pillows in case of any emergencies. Also, plan your route in advance, and take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
A safe and comfortable car seat is a must! If your little one gets fussy, never release the seat belts to compromise their safety. Instead, it’s a sign that you all might need a break. Stressing out won’t help anyone! See it rather as a family adventure, which it truly is!
Traveling by Plane
If traveling by plane with your kids, arrive at the airport early to avoid any last-minute rush. When you get stressed and rushed, they do that too. However, especially the little ones can’t really understand what’s happening and why and might get easily scared. So, take your time and stay as calm as possible. Check in online if you can, and pack all the necessary documents, such as passports, boarding passes, and tickets, in a bag with easy access. If you have young kids, you can request a bassinet or a child seat on the plane so that they can travel safely and comfortably, and even get some sleep!. Also, pack extra clothes and diapers for your kids in case of any accidents.
Remember the tip with toys? When we had a flight with our 4-year-old from Germany to LA, a 12-hour flight that turned out to be a 14 hours flight, having new toys on hand was a lifesaver. It was his second flight ever and the first such long one. Every couple of hours, he’d get so bored, tired, and extremely annoyed. That was the sign we had to introduce a new toy. And here you go, going from an irritated and screaming child to a happy one for the next few hours. Never dump on them all the new toys you got. Introduce them strategically when the right time comes! And trust me, you will know when it comes.
Final Tips
Here are some final tips that can help make your summer getaway stress-free and enjoyable:
- Take only essentials into carry-on baggage, like snacks and toys, because you might end up carrying your child too. Discover my must-have packing checklist for toddlers and pre-schoolers – for free! Click here to get your hands on it now: https://mamafitnesscoaching.com/5-minutes-coaching-with-elena
- Plan your activities in advance and involve your kids in the planning process.
- Embrace the unexpected and turn any hiccups into opportunities for adventure.
Traveling with kids can be made easy and stress-free with a bit of preparation and some helpful tips. By ensuring that your kids are well-fed, entertained, and comfortable, you can enjoy a memorable summer getaway with your family. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready for an exciting journey with your loved ones.