Traveling with kids may seem like a big hassle for the parents but you are creating memories for your kids and it is something they will remember for the rest of their lives. Here are some family travel tips to make it less of a hassle and enjoy the trip in a relaxed and casual manner.
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Design the right itinerary
When faced with the idea of a family vacation, many parents think that theme parks and Disney World is the answer. If you enjoy Disney, go for it. However, if the idea of spending an entire day at Disney is enough to make you throw up, then you can create a much more fun, non-Disney itinerary as well. The idea behind this family travel tip is to create an itinerary that will be enjoyable to all the members of the family – including you.
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Keep lots of downtime
When the kids are involved, things are going to feel chaotic and hectic. The counter remedy? Keep time aside for the chaos, think slow travel and spend quality time with your kids. If you have kept sufficient time in between attractions then you are not going to feel rushed and are going to better console your kids when they have the unexpected meltdown.
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Be flexible
If you are going to pout and say, we have to do this NOW then what is the difference between the kids and you? The answer is in being flexible about your travel plans; this family travel tip will keep your vacations fun for many years to come. Keep a spare day or two to catch up on some missed attractions and be okay with the idea of not seeing everything the city has to offer. Maybe instead of visiting the museum, where younger kids often get bored, you can tell them about the history as you walk through the destination’s parks and gardens.
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Pack smart
Your motto, when packing for the holiday with the kids, should be ‘Be prepared for everything’. Pack all your kids essentials, even the favorite soft toy, you never know when pulling out a toy can stop a tantrum right in its tracks. At the same time, do not go overboard with packing the entire house – it is you who are going to carry the bags everywhere you go.
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Book a hotel in a kid-friendly location
Here’s an excellent family travel tip that you will thank us for – Book a hotel that is kid-friendly, is in a safe and central location and close to the kid’s favorite attractions. Ids are not the most patient travelers and nothing frustrates the kids more than getting excited about the visit and then having to wait a long time to reach their destination. If the destinations are within walking distance, then that’s the best kind of deal as you can save on car rental or public transport or cabs. Also, choose a hotel with free breakfast, that’s one less meal to take care of!