Traveling with kids can be a challenge,
to say the least, especially on holidays. Factoring a child’s needs into your
travels involve a lot more than bringing in lots of snacks and making toilet
stops.
In this article, we’ll provide real-life
advice on travelling with kids in tow so you can enjoy your holidays without
all the unnecessary fuss.
Give extra time. Whether you’re at the airport,
sightseeing or getting from one place to another, you need to take your time.
Kids love to explore and don’t actually care for the time pressure when
travelling, so accept it to retain your cool. Factor in the gawping, faffing,
stalling, and occasional tantrums into the timeframe.
Book ahead of time. It pays to book ahead whether
you’re staying in hotels or camping. You cannot retain the spontaneity of
travelling that you had before having children. Oftentimes you’ll find yourself
in situations like arriving at your destination with tired, hungry kids melting
down in the backseat.
Provide them with a camera. Providing
your kids with their own user-friendly
and robust camera encourages them to observe their environment and focus on
what interests them. It also preoccupies their time and gives them the chance
to appreciate your travels more. You’ll be surprised at the results from their
view of things. Rocks, ants, random animal poo, gutters. Awesome!
Prepare for any climate. This may be a simple advice, but children
dressed comfortably for both weather and terrain will enjoy their environment
better. With all the gear available, there’s actually no excuse for kids using
suits that are ill-fitting.
Use apps to your advantage. There’s little need to cram toy boxes into hand luggage when travelling wherever. Simple
bring with you a tablet and download loads of apps and games for in-flight or
on-road entertainment. Just remember to set rules and it’ll be a comfy ride for
everyone.
Bring medicine. Whether they’re jet-lagged, eating less
healthily or having runny nose due to the change in climate, kids always seem
to catch illness during holidays. Pack an easy-to-swallow medicine and other
essential medical items with you, including plasters, wipes, sting treatment,
thermometer, etc.
Avoid sweets. Giving in to the temptation of feeding your
children sweets can backfire during your journey as it can make them hyper for
hours. Pack a mixture of savoury snacks like breadsticks, cheese cubes, bagels
and fruit – anything to avoid arriving at your destination with children in the
middle of a sugar rush.
Check your passports. Passports have a habit of running out when we’re
not looking, so allow at least four weeks to renew them. The cost of a
last-minute passport is huge, and irritating if you only realise it’s essential
when already in the queue at your destination.
Secure a travel insurance for everyone. Any traveller worth
his or her salt – or parent/s travelling with kids for that matter, must not
skimp on a good travel insurance. The good
news is that most insurers provide complimentary travel insurance cover
for your dependent children, which means they will receive the same
type and level of cover as you, although some benefits may not apply.
End Note That’s it. Remember, the key is right planning
and sticking with your plans, including itineraries during your holiday trip.
Make use of these tips to have a harmonious holiday with your children in tow.
Have fun!
