Unpacking Tips for your Upcoming Vacation with the Kids

ARTICLE : JILL NICOLE SANTIAGO | FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Travelling as a family brings up a tangle of emotions for parents. From excitement to anxiety, enjoyment to disappointment, and everything in between. But there is one clear feeling parents yearn for: a stress-free and convenient travel with their kids. At all costs, parents want to unbuckle fun and rewarding vacations.

However, no matter how meticulously plan that most-awaited vacation, things sometimes fail to unfold as planned. Given that you have children with you, you will encounter various misadventures and challenges along the way.

*Flight announcement sounds* Calling all parents' attention! Here are some tips to keep in mind to achieve that desired success rate when travelling with your children:

Extra Clothes for the Extra…Prepared

You've already checked all the boxes on your preparation list and packed everything your family needs, but don't get too relaxed because accidents like missing baggage and travel sickness may occur. Prepare an extra bag of clothes on hand, not just for your children but also for yourself. They will be your lifesavers, so it is safer to be ready than to roam around with soaked, sticky, or dirty clothes.

Boredom, Tantrums, and Hunger Travel Survival Kit

Children tend to be easily bored, and tantrums can strike without warning. In such instances, entertainment will be your best friend. Curate a kit with all of your child's favorite things, including handy toys, interactive books, and a device for watching children's shows. You'll be surprised at the amount of headaches you can prevent just by doing this.

Don't forget to bring snacks! These are not only for the sake of the hangry, but they also serve as mood boosters due to how they can distract the kids and shift the atmosphere to something better.

Slow Down to Downtime

Make some extra time instead of overplanning and strictly sticking to a day's itinerary. Aside from the reality that the entire trip may take longer than anticipated, you need to arrange downtime to recharge and provide nap time for the children. Of course, it's the parents' turn to shine, as you'll be given ample time to relax and touch up.

So take it slow and delight in that well-deserved break!

Acknowledge the Swirl of Events

Recognize that there will be unexpected situations that are simply out of your hands. Bear in mind that things will go wrong, no matter how cautious you are. In these instances, simply go with the flow and accept the unexpected whirlwind of events.

Be extra patient, because nothing will come in handy if you burst your bubble.

Prepare for worst-case scenarios by bringing medicines, a first-aid kit, and obtaining the contact information of local emergency departments. You never know when the unexpected will be expected.

Allow Adventure, but Be a Watcher

Parents want to ensure that children are safe whenever they travel to an unfamiliar environment. However, it's time to ease up to allow them to discover more about the world that surrounds them. Allow them to run around and just be kids.

But keep in mind that you do so within limits. Keep an eye on them at all times and provide them with contact details in the unlikely event that they get lost. You may write on their arm or create a bracelet or necklace with your contact details on it.

Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy!

The key to achieving a successful trip is to simply enjoy it! Live in the moment. Appreciate the situation and the little things that come as you embark on your family trip. It may be complicated, but it will be worth it.

A successful trip does not imply fewer accidents and difficulties; it means that every family member is content, delighted, and excited for the next family vacation.

Remember, it is inevitable for things to go wrong when travelling with your kids. There are no prior safety drills and demonstrations. However, if you readily embrace the unexpected, you'll discover how rewarding the entire journey is.

And what matters most is that everyone returns home with timeless souvenirs of worthwhile experiences and cherished moments!