Family vacations can be memorable and stressful. With a little planning, creative thinking and kid-friendly strategies, your family will sail through vacations with minimal bumps in the road. Here are some helpful tips on how to make your trip enjoyable for all.
Traveling by Plane with Kids
There is nothing more irritating than having to lug more things than you'll need through an airport. Try to minimize what you bring and pack selectively.
- If possible, bring an umbrella stroller on-board with you. You can usually check it in at the gate when you board. It will come in handy to not only carry kids, but also for lugging the diaper bag.
- If your child is not familiar with flying, stop by the local library (or visit Amazon) and check out books or videos so he or she can get comfortable with the idea.
- For older kids bring gum or hard candy to help with ear pressure when landing. For babies, sucking on a bottle usually helps with ears.
- Overnight flights (red-eyes) are a great way to travel with kids, especially if the flight is five hours or longer. Children will most likely sleep through the flight, rather than fussing in their seat or running up and down the aisles. However, be warned that parents don't always sleep well on planes and could be fatigued upon arriving at the destination.
Traveling by Train with Kids
Trains are a wonderful way to travel with children. Little boys will love seeing a "Thomas"-type train up close. It's a relaxing and adventurous way to get from one place to another. If your travel time is more than six hours, consider paying extra for a sleeper car. Amtrak has some very scenic routes.
- Snag a seat with a table. Rather than going for a row of seats, try to get one that has a table. Not only is it great for snack-time, but makes it a lot easier for doing puzzles, playing games, or even resting your head to take a nap.
- Never leave your child unattended on a train. Due to the frequent stops and amount of passengers getting on and off the train, you should always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your child.
- Make sure to visit the dining car. Kids love having meals on trains. It's a very unique way to dine. Even if it's just for a snack, it's a good way to stretch your legs and kill some time.
- Get a route map so that you kids can follow the route the train is taking and check off each stop as you go.
Traveling by Car with Kids
Long car trips seem to always feel cramped and exhausting. With just the right number of stops and road trip activities, the time will fly by and you'll arrive feeling refreshed and ready to go.
- Make sure to pack age-appropriate basic items to entertain the kids during the trip, such as crayons and paper, a favorite stuffed animal, a couple of books (paperback is easier to pack), a new toy. Older kids will probably not leave the house without their video games or a DVD player, but try a twist on the technology and suggest something such as a book on tape they can listen to on their iPod. Also encourage alternative activities such as making friendship bracelets or a book on learning how to draw.
- Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water. Healthy snacks like whole wheat pretzels and apples will keep the family full, but treats are a good thing to have on hand when you're dealing with a cranky or bored moment.
- Always have a carry-on handy (even if you're in the car) with essential items. You don't want to dig through your luggage to get a clean shirt after your baby spits up on you.
- Don't forget to bring a comfortable pillow for naps in the car.
Before leaving for any vacation, be sure to talk with your family and ask for their input on where they'd like to travel to, what activities they'd like to pack for the trip, and what snacks they would enjoy. And don't forget to pack your sense of humor for the rough times.
Sharael Kolberg - With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Hawaii, Sharael combines her interest in family travel with her passion for ...
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