“Summer vacation is the perfect time to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you prefer lounging on a beach or exploring new destinations, there’s no better way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life than by embracing the carefree spirity of summer.”
— Author Unknown
Let’s put the inspirational thoughts aside for a while and look at some data. Surveys show 219 million travelers (including families with small children) are expected to travel in the U.S. this summer, an 11 million increase from 2022 and 46 million from 2021. Yikes, that’s a lot of people.
Here are eleven tips on how to travel with children over your summer vacation:
- Plan: Research your travel destination, airlines, and hotels to ensure they are child-friendly and accommodating.
- Select a suitable mode of transportation: If you’re traveling with young children, it’s best to avoid long road trips or overnight train journeys. Flying is an excellent option if you’re prepared for potential challenges (such as crying babies and delays).
- Pack smart: Bring a small backpack for each child with snacks, water bottles, toys, and books to keep them entertained during the journey.
- Be flexible: Children tend to have unexpected needs and mood swings. Be prepared to change your plans or itinerary to accommodate their needs.
- Stick to routines: Keeping consistent naps, meals, and bedtime schedules can help children feel more secure in unknown surroundings.
- Safety first: Bring car seats, childproofing items, and appropriate sunscreen or insect repellent. Don’t forget a first-aid kit.
- Keep essentials handy: Pack extra diapers, wipes, and changes of clothes within easy reach.
- Bring entertainment: Download age-appropriate shows and games on your devices beforehand, or bring small toys or coloring books to keep children entertained.
- Remember rest stops: Plan for frequent stops for stretching, bathroom breaks, and playtime.
- Involve children in planning: Let older children help plan activities or meals to give them a sense of participation and control.
- Relax and have fun: Traveling with children can be stressful sometimes, but remember to take deep breaths, enjoy the moments, and make special memories with your family.
The quote at the beginning of my post emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Traveling with children can be stressful, but with some planning, you can make some happy memories for your family.
Here is another post about vacation planning, and here’s one about travel.
Photo by Xavier Mouton Photographie on Unsplash
Editorial Update: We strive to keep our content accurate and up-to-date. As part of our ongoing efforts, this article has been moved from Family to TRAVEL & FAMILY on 09/10/2023.
