Your child might not be Kevin from “Home Alone,” and your family might not be as big as the McCallisters’, but if the movie has a lesson for traveling with family, it’s that it can be chaotic and stressful.
Whether you’re heading to a tropical beach, a bustling city, or a quiet countryside, it’s important to stay organized, flexible, and patient. Embrace the excitement of exploring new places and making lasting memories with your loved ones.
Here are 11 secrets to family travel you should remember for your next vacation:
1. Be Flexible And Expect The Unexpected
Your child has already developed a routine at home that they’re more familiar with than anything else. You might have a routine of your own that keeps your family sane and organized.
However, traveling requires flexibility. It doesn’t mean completely abandoning what you’re used to, but rather adjusting when necessary. Even with a schedule, it can’t be followed rigidly.
You may find yourself eating at irregular times or in unexpected places, trying new or packed foods, napping when your kids do, or staying awake to keep the driver company on a road trip. You might stay up late or sleep in to adjust to a new environment. Whatever it takes for your family, flexibility is key.
2. Give Yourself A Jet Lag Buffer
You might prefer to let jet lag take its course rather than taking a nap upon arrival. If you arrive earlier than check-in, request early check-in from the hotel a few weeks in advance. Use this time to shower, unpack, and rest, even if exploring has to wait until you’re more refreshed.
Returning to routine can also be challenging, so give yourself time to fully adjust. Avoid overcommitting to activities in the first week. It’s normal for everyone to feel jet lagged for several days.
3. Do Not Overpack
No, you don’t need an extra swimsuit, pants, or sweater. Avoid bringing extra bags for things you might need but can buy locally, like toiletries.
If you forget something, local supermarkets or malls can be great places to explore and stock up.
For parents, don’t forget to bring your child’s preferred toys, like an iPad with their favorite games or shows, picture books, or a camera for older kids. Also, pack their favorite blanket, a small pillow, or stuffed animal.
4. Give Kids Individual Backpacks
Children enjoy having their own backpack or suitcase. It encourages them to carry their own belongings and might even prefer walking to being carried.
If your budget allows, consider a ride-on suitcase for them. If they get tired of walking, they can ride their suitcase instead.
5. Bring Emergency Snacks — Overpacking Exception
If your child tends to be a picky eater, it can be incredibly helpful to pack a bag of their favorite snacks or go-to foods before embarking on any trip. This thoughtful preparation can save you both time and frustration, ensuring that they have familiar options to enjoy throughout the journey.
Moreover, having these snacks handy can serve as a comforting routine, offering them something familiar amidst new surroundings. Additionally, you might even consider saving a few of their favorite treats as souvenirs for the return journey, creating lasting memories of both the trip and their favorite foods.
6. Book At Least 3 Months In Advance
Planning ahead is crucial when it comes to making travel arrangements. Avoiding procrastination and last-minute decisions can significantly enhance your experience. By booking flights and accommodations three months in advance, not only can you secure better deals and cheaper rates, but you also gain access to a wider array of seat choices and lodging options.
Waiting until the last minute often limits your choices, leading to higher costs and less desirable accommodations. By acting early, you not only save money but also ensure a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience. This proactive approach allows you to make informed decisions and enjoy the journey with peace of mind, knowing that your travel plans are well-organized and optimized for your preferences.
7. If Possible, Avoid Basic Economy
Opting for basic economy fares can often save you money upfront, but it’s important to note that these tickets typically come with restrictions, such as limited or no ability to select your seats in advance. For travelers who prioritize sitting together with family or friends, especially on longer flights, it might be worth investing a bit more in standard economy tickets. This upgrade usually includes the flexibility to choose seats ahead of time, ensuring a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience.
8. Book Window And Aisle Seats
When you’re unable to secure seats together during booking, strategize by opting for aisle and window seats. This choice enhances the possibility of later exchanging seats with fellow passengers. Middle seats are typically less favored, making them less likely to be chosen voluntarily by others. By selecting aisle or window seats initially, you increase your chances of negotiating swaps that allow your group to sit together comfortably throughout the journey.
9. When In Doubt, Take A Roadtrip
Flying can often pose challenges, especially when there are more children than adults to manage. It’s a situation that many families find daunting, given the logistics involved in keeping young ones entertained, comfortable, and calm throughout the journey. In contrast, road trips offer a distinct allure for these families.
The freedom to pack as much as needed, whether it’s favorite toys, snacks, or extra clothes, provides a sense of security and preparedness that air travel sometimes lacks. Moreover, the ability to set one’s own pace and schedule allows families to take breaks as needed, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and happy without the worry of disturbing fellow travelers. These advantages make road trips a popular choice among families seeking a more flexible and accommodating travel experience.
10. Don’t Dismiss Kid-Friendly Accommodations
Happy kids, happy parents. Correct?
Happy kids mean happier parents. When searching for accommodations, prioritize hotels that cater specifically to children, offering a variety of activities designed to keep them entertained and engaged right at the property. These family-friendly amenities can make all the difference, ensuring that both kids and parents have a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
11. It’s Never Too Early To Start Traveling With Kids
Traveling isn’t just about visiting tourist spots; it’s about small moments like sharing a snack, playing in a department store playground, or receiving a gift from a kind stranger. Kids often appreciate the simple joys of exploration.
Traveling with family comes with challenges, but life is short, and the world is vast. Cherish the unique experience of exploring new places with your loved ones.
