It’s always a wonderful idea, isn’t it? Take time off, gather the family, and hit the road for vacation. Unfortunately, the logistics of a trip with the family make it a bit harder than we would like at times. While it can certainly be overwhelming, family trips do get easier the more you do it. If you’re wondering what you can do to make it easier on you, check out the following four tips!
- Figure in extra time
When you are traveling with your family, you never want to have your days and nights planned down to the last second. Always leave room for issues, accidents, and other family challenges. Just because you can get through security and onto the plane in under 10 minutes doesn’t mean that is going to happen with kids by your side. Factor in plenty of extra time for every move.
- Keep the snacks coming
You probably already know how “hangry” you can be when you haven’t eaten. It’s worse for kids, especially when they have to depend on someone else to feed them. Having snacks ready to go at any minute will make every family trip much saner. Plus, you never know when you might get stuck somewhere without a proper meal, such as in traffic.
- Prepare your kids
You know exactly what will be happening during your trip, right? If your kids don’t have much of an idea of the itinerary, it can make things much more challenging for them. Explain the trip in as much detail as you can, such as how long you will be in the air or driving on the road. Get the questions out of the way now to make it easier while you’re traveling.
- Make sure your child is safe
Of course, the safety of your family will be one of your biggest concerns. Make sure your child, especially a very young one, has your contact information on them at all times. Write down your child’s name, your name, your phone number, and other important information before you leave. Make sure to stress to them how important it is to keep the note in their pocket, or tie it to a shoelace if you are worried they will lose it. Older kids should have your personal contact information memorized.
These four simple tips will make your family travel that much easier. Stay safe, and have fun!