Traveling with children for the holidays creates a wonderful opportunity to bond, and develop fabulous memories for all to enjoy for years to come. Still, it’s not secret that it can also be a stressful time for everyone involved. With this in mind, it seemed like a good idea to offer up some tips for traveling with kids this holiday season.
First, if possible try and go somewhere family-friendly. Of course, this isn’t always possible considering most people travel to see family, and family visits don’t ensure a family-friendly environment. Irony aside, if the place you are going to isn’t family-friendly try and make it as cordial as possible. For example, if your family members have breakables around the house, it may be a good idea to suggest ahead of time that those items be moved where small hands can reach them. This is particularly important for smaller children. It’s also a good idea to make sure that your children understand ahead of time not to touch things they are not supposed to, and let them know your expectations for them as well.
Have a reward system in place. It’s not always easy to keep children on their best behavior. As an incentive, think of something you can use to reward them for good behavior. Perhaps if they make it through the car ride without incident they get to choose an activity, or they get a treat or a toy.
Don’t forget their nap and meal times! When traveling, it’s sometimes difficult to maintain our normal routines. However, it’s important that if your children are used to taking a nap at a certain hour or having something to eat at a specific time you try and stick to their schedule. If meal times aren’t possible to maintain, it’s critical to at least bring snacks that they can enjoy. Nothing makes a child cranky faster than being hungry and uncomfortable! In fact, mom and dad, you should make sure you’re keeping yourself fed too because the last thing you want is to also be hungry and cranky while trying to keep a cool head on your shoulders!
Plan ahead for medicines too. Not all pharmacies will have what you need, so if you or your children need a daily prescription, have plenty in advance.
Have wiggle room for all timed events. Plane and train rides, other transportation, movies, ticketed events, etc… If there is a time you have to be somewhere, give yourself wiggle room. Buffer time helps ensure that you won’t be stressed! Arriving early is much better than the stress of missing a ride or event.
Bring something to keep them occupied. Whether it’s a long plane or car ride, or just a lot of sitting around while grown ups are talking, children need something to keep them occupied. Think puzzle books, tablet games, travel games and even laptops tuned into Netflix. And, if anything you are giving them will be making noise, consider giving them a set of headphones for your sake and the sake of people around you.
Use checklists to be sure you didn’t forget anything. Not only will checklists help you make sure you don’t forget the essentials, using them will help you think of additional things you and your kids may need to travel comfortably.
Take into account the weather in the destination you’re visiting as well to ensure you are dressed appropriately. Remember, the goal is to keep everything as enjoyable as possible. So, plan ahead, take a deep breath, and hopefully this will be your best holiday getaway with the kids yet!
Parents, we want to hear from you! What are your best tips for traveling with children? Leave a comment below and tell us about it!