Do you know what’s fun? For a lot of us, that’s traveling the world, exploring new sights and finding new experiences. But do you know what’s even better? Seeing your child’s face light up in joy with beaming smiles as they take in these new experiences with you.
Traveling with kids can be a hassle when things don’t go as planned. Luckily, times have changed and traveling with kids has become more convenient.
Thanks to the internet, traveling the world has become more accessible. Planning is as easy as a few clicks of a mouse button. Need to book a flight? Just go to your computer and book them online. Preparing an itinerary? Tour packages have got you covered. Wondering about where to stay? Hotel booking websites have a wide array of rentable spaces to choose from.
From travel blogs, to cheap flights, to affordable accommodation and tour packages, all the information you need is right at your fingertips.
All that’s left is to pack your bags and leave.
Here are a few tips to make traveling with kids easy and stress-free.
Set a flight plan whenever you’re bringing kids
Stress-free travel begins with a well-executed flight plan. Check in early if you have baggage that needs to be checked to avoid rushing for your flight. Set proper expectations for your children so they know what will happen before and during the trip, from the check-in to boarding, flight safety, and any layovers.
Flights can also cause drastic change in temperatures so it’s best to layer clothes. Make them as easy and comfortable as possible for your kids. Avoid buttons that can get in the way if they need to get to the restroom. And opt for slip-ons or velcro instead of laces for footwear.
Remember that planes have pressurized cabins. That can cause discomfort in the ears when there’s a change in altitude during takeoff or landing. This can get uncomfortable especially to young kids.
Help your child depressurize their ears by bringing snacks or pacifiers. But the best way to pop their ears? Chewing gum. Give your child some when they’re old enough to chew it without making a mess.
Prepare for travel safety
Having a family member get lost during the trip can be a nightmare. Take extra precautions when bringing kids on trips. Set up a meeting point when out in the streets or places with lots of people.
Have them memorize your contact information or keep it close to them at all times. Even give them a printed copy of your travel itinerary that they can keep in their pocket.
Practice scenarios in which they can safely reach out to someone for help. Teach them to identify and seek help from a trusted adult such as a woman with a child, a salesperson with a nametag, or a security guard.
One safe rule of thumb to teach your kids (even at home) is: if you approach a stranger and they appear to be friendly, it’s probably safe to trust them. But if a stranger approaches you and appears to be friendly, it’s best to be wary.
To avoid the uncertainty altogether, look into using a GPS bracelet when traveling. This saves you from the worries of locating your child in case they get lost.
Avoid overpacking
Imagine yourself bringing a huge load of baggage with your kids tagging along and pulling at the hem of your shirt. Sounds miserable? Well it is and this is why you should leave unnecessary stuff at home and avoid overpacking when possible.
You can get most stuff on the road anyway. Strollers can be rented, baby monitors have an app for it. So try to reduce packing into only the necessities. Pack versatile pieces of clothing that can be paired with other pieces and worn for a variety of different occasions.
Keep a stash of snacks
Keeping a small pack with essentials and snacks within easy reach on a trip can reduce the hassle of having to go through all your bags searching.
Meltdowns can happen any time. Especially when children are hungry. Bringing some snacks in the essentials backpack will help minimize that.
Always Use the Restroom Before You Leave a Place
Let’s face it, kids have a knack for needing to go to the bathroom when there are no nearby toilets in the area. Make it a habit to head to the restroom whenever one is nearby before you leave a place.
When it comes to traveling with kids, preparation and foresight is key. Following these helpful tips can help you leave the stress at home, and focus on enjoying the trip with your family!
When it comes to a quality preschool education for your child, we’re here to take care of that for you. Here at The Pillars Christian Learning Center, we value the importance of learning essential life skills to set a child on the path to success. Send your little one to a school that fosters holistic growth and development. Give us a call for more information.