1. Plan Ahead
Start planning early to get the best deals on flights, resorts, and activities. Popular restaurants and attractions can sell out (like La Sagrada Family tours in Barcelona) and you can also cut the lines if you pre-purchase tickets! Early planning also helps you organize documents, such as passports, and make any necessary reservations. **A good rule of thumb to use if you are traveling internationally is to make sure your passport is valid for at least SIX months after your arrival or departure date.
2. Choose Kid-Friendly Destinations
Look for destinations that offer family-friendly activities and amenities, such as parks, beaches, and kid-friendly attractions. If you are staying at a home rental, make sure it’s within close distance to places to eat and things to do.
3. Pack Smart
Create a checklist for packing essentials for both you and your kids. Don’t forget items like snacks, favorite toys, and comfort items for the journey. Use packing cubes and ziplocs to help you stay organized throughout your trip. For the kid’s clothes, I roll their daily outfits together (bottom + top) to make it easy for them to get dressed each morning.
4. Prepare for the Journey
Pack travel games, coloring pages, audiobooks, or tablets with downloaded content to keep kids entertained during long trips. Make sure there are things for them to do if there is no internet service or wifi.
5. Keep a Routine
Try to maintain some elements of your home routine, such as nap times or bedtime, to keep kids comfortable and minimize disruptions. I know this isn’t always easy to do, but it’s certainly a better outcome in the long run. The one thing your vacation doesn’t need is a cranky kid.
6. Involve Kids in Planning
Let children choose some activities or destinations to make them feel included and excited about the trip. If you only have time for one activity, give them options to choose. They will be extra excited when the time comes!
7. Stay Flexible
Be prepared to adjust plans as needed. Kids can be unpredictable, so having backup activities or being ready to change schedules can help manage any issues. Maybe you want to nix all plans and just chill at the resort for a day. For longer vacations, I have an open day because there are always new things to add once you’re there!
8. Pack Essentials in Carry-On
Keep important items like medications, documents, toiletries, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in case of delays or lost luggage.
9. Safety First
Make sure everyone knows emergency contact information and that you have a first-aid kit on hand. These Welly First Aid kits are cute and compact. Perfect to throw in your personal bag. If you have teenagers who like a little freedom, make sure their location services are turning on on all devices. Apple Airtags are also a great option to put on their bags.
10. Research Local Resources
Look up nearby hospitals, pharmacies, and make a list of kid-friendly restaurants before you go.
