Travelling with kids is completely different to travelling solo or as a couple. Even if you’re a seasoned traveller, family travel comes with a whole new set of rules and questions. What do you need to pack? How do you keep them entertained? Here are some parenting tips and tricks to make your journey as smooth as possible:
- Choose your accommodation wisely
Firstly, you need to book your accommodation in advance – spontaneous bookings don’t work out very well when you’re travelling with kids. Wandering the streets for hours looking for a hotel (and eventually finding one with a filthy bathroom and suspicious elevator) isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. If you’re going the hotel route, check for special family deals – some hotels offer discounted rates, or even allow two kids to stay free. Try to pick a hotel in a central location, with complimentary breakfast, a swimming pool, and a kid’s club.
Vacations with kids are fun cuz you get to spend a fortune to hear about their boredom.
— Stabbatha Christy (@LoveNLunchmeat) February 15, 2016
- Take it slow
A few parenting tips can go a long way in ensuring a successful family trip. A lot of experts have mentioned the importance of taking your time. Your pace has to change now that you’re travelling with kids. Try not to squeeze too many activities and sightseeing in one day – even though at times it feels like your kids are battery operated, they get tired and cranky when there’s too much walking involved. Make sure you do the main activities and adventures in the morning when everyone is fresh and recharged. After a big activity, take a break at the hotel before you venture out again.
- Pack smart (and light)
Make a packing list – this will ensure that you don’t leave anything behind. If you’re travelling to more than one destination, lugging around heavy bags can be quite tiring and taxing on the body. Instead of carrying heavy suitcases, have everyone carry a backpack. The kids’ backpacks can be light with a few essentials in it. When it comes to clothing, pack in small and versatile items that you can layer. Several services offer baby-gear rental and infant supplies, so if you don’t want to bring your own pram or car seat, you can just rent one. Here are some tips on how to pack like a pro.
- Keep them entertained
You might be fine staring out the window and admiring the surroundings on a 2-hour train ride, but kids get bored easily and need something to keep themselves entertained during these moments. An iPad or electronic tablet loaded with apps, games, and movies will keep kids entertained for hours. ‘Angry birds’ equals happy parents. You could also encourage your kids to keep a travel journal, in which they can write about their favourite parts of the trip, and paste postcards and ticket stubs. This article offers some great parenting tips for air travel.
Dear Parents,
— Meredith (@PerfectPending) May 31, 2016
As you book your summer vacations, don't forget that all your kids really want to do is swim in a hotel pool.
- Stay healthy
Kids are susceptible to illnesses while on holiday, which can be due to the change of environment, jetlag, or eating less healthy. Make sure you pack a first aid kit with pain tablets, antiseptic wipes, plasters, sting treatment, and a thermometer. If you’re heading for the heat, wear a sunhat with wide brims and sun lotion. Children are particularly prone to dehydration, so make sure they stay hydrated (preferably with water instead of fizzy drinks).
Family travel doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. By following these parenting tips, you can have a fun and hassle-free holiday. If you want a great destination with a wide range of family-friendly accommodation, come to Mallorca. Our hotels in Mallorca are perfect for family trips – with spacious rooms, swimming pools, entertainment, and a great location. Contact us to book your accommodation.
Image Credit: readersdigest.ca
