Many of our clients love the idea of taking a family
vacation, but it seems like a daunting task with packing and actually getting
to the destination. However, we have a few pro tips from agents for traveling
with kids that might make it easier:
1.
Make the journey fun.
Sometimes, even the iPad won’t do. Instead of dreading a car
ride for hours on-end or half-day travel in and out of airports, try to make
the journey as enjoyable as possible. For example, if you’re taking a long
drive, plan your stops ahead of time and visit a fun rest stop with a park or a
cool restaurant along the way (instead of pulling in for fast food). Sure, it
may add an hour to your trip, but you will have enjoyed it more. If you’re
going through the airport with kids, create an Eye Spy game and encourage them
to find things along their way: a plastic pair of wings, a traveler with a dog,
a baby with a stuffed animal, someone with a pink suitcase, an airplane traffic
director, a tram, a yogurt shop, etc.
2.
Freeze meals to bring.
If you’re going to be staying at a beach or mountain house,
try to pre-plan your meals with kid-friendly ease. The week prior to your
vacation, double your recipes and put half in a container in the freezer. Store
them all in a cooler and voila!
No-hassle cooking throughout the week of your vacation.
3.
Divide and conquer.
Vacations are just as exciting for kids as they are for
adults. If you’re able, separate the kids at nap times and bed times. They
won’t stay up as long if they’re not together. This means more sleep for you
and for them—and much less crankiness in the mornings.
4.
Take a cruise.
A cruise is the perfect vacation with kids because there is
always something to do onboard. There are usually daycare programs that allow
for parents-only time, too, and you won’t have to worry about supervision.
There are lots of activities on and off the ship and you won’t have to worry
about meals, either!
5.
Make airport security lines a breeze.
We loved this tip from mom Nicol in Rochester, NY on minitime.com:
“Everyone wears a brightly-colored t-shirt and is responsible for his own
carry-on and backpack. My husband goes through security line first with the
valuables, followed by all the kids (youngest to oldest) and then myself.
Nothing gets stolen and the kids have time to put their Crocs (so easy!) back
on. Got more tips for traveling with kids? We want to hear from
you in the comments or on the Outside Agent Link Facebook
page!
