The holiday season is upon us and, which means you are most likely to travel with your children.
Traveling for vacation with family members can be an enlightening and eye-opening experience even for children of all ages: there’s new foods, experiences and sights, not to mention quality family time. But traveling with children can also be an overwhelming proposition — unpredictable schedules, long packing lists and cranky kids are just a few of the challenges you may encounter along the way.
Here are some simple things you can do to make your life a whole lot easier.
Get an early start
Kids can be chaotic when it is time to travel.
They sometimes act out of the norm which is why it is best to pack everything and everyone in the car, they have a way of undoing what you’re struggling to get done.
If possible, hire a sitter to play with the kids while you pack up. If you’re flying, extra time at the airport will give your kids some time to stretch their legs before they get on the airplane.
Feed the the kids before you travel
Planning or bringing your own food is crucial if your children have any food sensitivities or allergies.
Also, if you can, bring real food. Finding a solid, healthy meal while traveling is getting easier as newer airports have healthier options. However most airport food is overpriced and unhealthy.
The same can be said for interstate rest stops: they’re making progress, but you’re more likely to find burgers and fries than a rice bowl and a fresh green salad.
Although airlines and airports are getting better in this area, there’s really no way of knowing exactly what’s inside the food you might be served on an airplane, in an airport restaurant, or at a roadside diner.
Therefore food is essential for kids when travelling as a “kid with a full belly can be a happy kid almost anywhere.”
Parents should divide the revealing responsibility
It is best for parents or guardians to divide the travelling responsibility this allows to ease off pressure that either one may be feeling before or when trealiving with kids.
Try to avoid dragging the whole family through the more mundane travel details. One parent should stay with the kids while the other completes tasks like checking baggage, buying snacks, pre-boarding to install car seats, and renting a car. If the airport has a play area, (ask at the information desk or check the airport’s website) those are ideal times for the kids to “get their wiggles out.”
Pack in a busy bag
Kids easily get bored when sitting still and adults alike need a bit of entertainment to make long airport hours or car rides more fun.
Pack a variety of age-appropriate items for your youngsters, but control the access. Give them one thing at a time and take your time before offering a new activity. Books, quiet toys, crayons, and stickers can all hold a child’s attention in flight.
And if you are a typically a non-screen time family, you may want to consider bringing a device and headphones for your child. Music, audiobooks, and games can buy you a good stretch of peace during your trip.
Don’t forget to bring something for yourself as well. Your kids might settle down long enough for you to enjoy a book of your own. You can dream, right?
Also see: Family friendly and fun places to visit this festive season
