Kiddipedia
Travelling with kids (especially little ones) can make any parent, even an experienced traveller, a nervous wreck. However, family holidays can be exciting adventures rather than stressful experiences if you plan ahead and approach the trip with the right attitude. Focus on being organised yet flexible and being prepared for the inevitable surprises that come with bringing children along on an adventure…
Ways To Make Travelling With Kids Less Stressful
#1 – Plan Ahead
Planning is the secret to any successful family trip. Start by involving the children weeks in advance of travel. Show them pictures of your destination, discuss activities they might enjoy, and ask them to pack an overnight bag of their favourite toys or comfort items. This pre-travel involvement helps to build excitement and gives them a sense of control, reducing anxiety about the disruption to their routine that lies ahead.
#2 – Pack Wisely
Packing is a strategic activity when travelling with kids. Create detailed lists of things for each child that need to be taken, like medications, favourite snacks, and even soft toys. Have an en-route entertainment bag that is easily accessible during travel. The bag may contain wet wipes, a change of clothes, snacks, and activities (colouring/puzzle books, etc.). On longer trips, shipping heavy items such as nappies or baby formula to your destination can be more convenient than carrying it all with you.
#3 -Be Realistic
Expectation management is your best bet for minimising travel stress. Be realistic that travel with children will take longer than travelling alone and factor additional time into your plans to make up for it. Take comfort breaks during car journeys, get to airports early and don’t pack too much into the daily routine, as overtired kids make everything harder – prioritise rest and maintain regular nap schedules when and if possible.
#4 – Look At Logistics
Transportation options can make such a big difference in how your travels go. For flying, try to book your flights during the times when your children naturally sleep or are at their best. Reserve seats together when booking, and spring for the extra cost of direct flights to eliminate the added stress of connections. When taking road trips, pull over every two or three hours at a place where kids can actually run off some energy and stretch their legs.
#5 – Stay in Child Safe Environments
Accommodation needs thoughtful attention while holidaying with children. Opt for kid-friendly hotels or rental properties with kitchen facilities and close proximity to playgrounds and pools. Maintaining early morning and bedtime routines similar to those at home can be worlds better in terms of behaviour and stress.
#6 – Carry Back Up Rations
Food can be a fantastic source of stress when travelling with kids. Bring comfort foods to prevent hunger “hangry” meltdowns, and research kid-friendly restaurants at your destination in advance. Reserving a room near grocery stores means rapid access to essentials. While eating new food can be all part of the experience, having fallback plans as a failsafe keeps mealtime wars at bay.
#7 – Bring Your Own Entertainment
Entertainment requires careful planning for efficient family travel. Prepare travel activity kits with appropriate sports, books and crafts for the age group. Add new things along with a familiar favourite to keep things interesting. For electronic entertainment, download movies, games or educational apps before travelling to prevent connection problems. Don’t forget to bring headphones to avoid harassing other passengers.
#8 – Keep a Routine
Having routines as much as possible makes children feel secure while travelling. As much flexibility as is needed, try to keep meal and sleeping times as close to home routines as possible. Bring familiar bedtime items like special blankets or stuffed animals, and adhere to bedtime rituals even when away from home. This routine can avoid overtiredness and reduce stress for everyone.
#9 – Make Safety a Priority
Safety is that much more critical when holidaying with children. Carry a recent picture of each child on your phone, keep them in plain sight by dressing them in bright clothing if walking in public, and establish clear rules of remaining together. Giving older children a card with your details and instructions on what to do if they become lost is advisable.
#10 – Pack a Full First Aid Kit
Preparation for medical emergencies can stop minor problems from becoming major ones. Take a well-stocked first-aid kit with any prescription medication, regular over-the-counter medication, sticking plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes. Research healthcare providers at your destination and keep important medical information available.
#11 – Be Flexible
Flexibility is your best friend when travelling with kids. Things won’t go as planned even with meticulous planning, so keep a smile on your face and be prepared to change plans according to your kids’ needs and energy levels. Spontaneity can actually become a fun part of your trip at times.
#12 – Make Memories
Record your trip in a manner that will engage your kids. Allow them to take their pictures or maintain a travel diary. Not only will these serve as entertainment, but they will also make long-lasting memories and assist children in processing what they have encountered. Think about creating a personalised album or scrapbook upon your return home.
Taking pleasure from downtimes is the secret to happy family travel. Resist the urge to plan each second and leave room for relaxation, sleeping, and spontaneity. This prevents overstimulation and allows children to adjust to new surroundings and activities.
Travelling with children promises special opportunities for family bonding. While it will be more work than when you are a solo traveller or travelling as an adult, the reward of new experiences and family memories is your reward for the additional work (and sometimes stressful planning). As long as you plan well, have the right expectations, and are flexible, you can transform potentially stressful experiences into experiences your entire family will enjoy.
You may also like to read:
How Travelling with Your Teen Can Strengthen Bonds and Transform Your Relationship
Top Tips for Happy Travelling with Kids
Tips for Travelling as a Special Needs Family
Travelling Long Haul with Children
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