Traveling with kids, is it a nightmare to be avoided at all costs or an opportunity for unparalleled learning and family bonding? Like anything in this life, there are pros and cons to travel and traveling with your kids is no exception. While seeing the world with your little darlings can present many new challenges it balances those challenges with a whole lot of opportunities too.
Theme Parks are always a popular, family-friendly activity!
When you travel as a family you get to spend time away from the distractions and stresses of every day life and enjoy a shared learning experience. Travel can teach us so much about ourselves and other cultures, and children accelerate and expand this learning experience by opening doors to local people and communities that would otherwise remain closed.
The main ingredient to traveling well with your kids is the right mental attitude. If a delayed flight or unexpected itinerary change is enough to raise your blood pressure then the chances are your kids will get stressed as well. The more relaxed you are about unforeseen circumstances that will almost certainly occur then the better your kids will cope with change.
Dolphins: Fun for both Kids and Grown-ups!
Things to think about:
- When booking your flight, only choose bulkhead seats if your baby will need a bassinet. You can’t move the armrests in the bulkhead therefore older children will not be able to lie down.
Plan your flight schedule, car or bus journey to fit in with your child’s sleep pattern if possible. - If you are one of two parents traveling, use this to your advantage. Board the plane separately (one with luggage first, one with the children at the last possible moment!); also, plan separate visits to those places you are dying to see but know your children will detest.
- Plan to stay in accommodation where you can take advantage of babysitters for at least a small portion of your trip. You may also want to consider staying in a hotel with a kid’s club too.
Things to bring:
On the flight -
- Take plenty of water, milk and snacks on the plane. Keeping the children well fed will prevent any low blood sugar meltdowns. This applies to when you’re out and about too.
- Take special ear plugs for your children on the flight or, for babies, get them to feed from the breast or bottle on take off and landing to prevent ear pain.
- Take reading books, coloring books and a portable DVD player if you can! It can also help to take a new toy and present it half way through the flight (avoid small parts that can easily get lost)
- Take baby wipes and a change of clothes
- Some parents use baby paracetamol or other medications to help their children sleep – you may want to look into this. It can be equally as helpful to ensure children’s sugar intake remains to a minimum
- Take a comfort toy from home or even just a familiar pillow case to sleep on
On the road -
- Take a light buggy in your check-in luggage so the kids can sleep when you’re on the move. Even if your child does not normally nap outside of their cot at home you may be surprised – jet lag and a change of scenery can wonders! A baby carrier also comes in very handy, especially if you intend to include any hiking or walking in unpaved areas.
- A potty can come in handy if you are traveling by car.
Obviously your needs will differ depending on the destination you travel too and the age of your children. Overall travel with kids is rewarding and achievable. Go for it!
- Emma McMahon
