Vacationing is nothing less than an incredibly fun thing to do. You can do it on your own, with a friend, or with the whole family. The thing is, there’s an art to vacationing with kids, any parent will tell you. It’s quite different from going on your own or with other adults. For one, you need to keep reminding yourself that you’re in charge of the welfare of humans besides yourself. It’s not just that, there are so many things to take into consideration if you are about to, or already are on a vacation with kids. Without further ado, here are 5 tips for vacationing with kids that’ll help.
Your packing list will be different
Regardless of the trip you’re taking, one thing is certain, you have to pack based on all the different places you’ll visit. For instance, if DisneyLand is a sure stop, you need to pack appropriately for that. But if you’re headed to Grandma’s the packing list will be entirely different. What’s the take away here? At this point, you should already have an idea of what your itinerary looks like. So, pack based on that and remember to travel light, you’ll have your hands full enough with them as it is. Another handy trick is to pack individually for each child and stuff those bags into a bigger bag. That way, you’re not at a loss when it comes to what belongs to who right off the top of your head.
Book things in advance
Remember when you were a kid? How strong was your patience game? The answer for most is that their game was weak and that’s OK, patience is something we learn over the years. Based on this information, you really should book everything thing you possibly can in advance. Is it a rental car? Do that in advance. The same goes for the hotel room or even an amusement park you’ll visit while you’re away. For instance, if you’re headed to Disney World (yes, Disney is a recurring theme) look for legitimate vendors that can supply you. If you can find one of the best discounter online options, you’ll like the fact that you get them for a good price in addition to getting them in advance.
A good tip is to get your kids involved in the planning and booking process with you. Let them have an input into what you see and do. Once they know what they have to look forward to such as visiting the best nashville attractions for example, then this can encourage better behavior and more enthusiasm, as they know what is coming up and where you are going. That is unless the whole trip is a surprise. In this case, you need to be more sneaky with finding out the attractions your child wants to visit so you can keep the element of surprise.
Prepare religiously for the airport
If you’re flying to your destination, you’ll have to remember that getting through the airport with kids is DIFFERENT. It’s strenuous enough getting through airport security on your own, even on a good day. So, if you’re doing it with little humans who won’t stay still, you best be prepared. First of all, familiarise yourself with the actual TSA requirements. After that, think practically, what would make your life a lot easier. For instance, slip-on shoes with socks are very practical. Maybe look for an outfit without a belt altogether. Think in that direction.
Snacks are your friends
Kids get fussy, it’s a fact that all parents and guardians need to deal with. Especially when you’re at the airport, on the plane or out and about, you need to take heed. You don’t want a tantrum or a restless child especially with the stress that comes with traveling as a whole. So, if you want to cross that bridge peacefully, you have to pay the toll. Bring some snacks along that will help keep their blood sugar at the right point. Nothing too unhealthy.
Know your kids
OK, this is not what it sounds like, you obviously already know your kids. What we mean here is that you need to use that to your advantage. Before they can hold you, hostage, make sure you’ve thought way ahead of them. You’re going to be parenting in public a whole lot when on vacation, so look for ways to manage situations well.
