If you are flying with your family, be sure to check the airline's policies regarding car seats and strollers. Many airlines now require car seats to be checked at the gate. This can be a hassle, but it's important to follow the airline's rules to ensure your child's safety.
When buying tickets, check if the airline offers child discounts. Most airlines have discounted tickets for young toddlers so make sure you don't miss out.
If you have airline points, a family vacation will be a great time to use them. It will help you save extra money for other things like tickets for the theme parks or booking a better hotel room.
Check this post for tips on when to buy your plane tickets
There might be a long line at the airport so make sure you get the whole family ready at least a couple of hours before your departure time.
Another thing to keep in mind when flying with kids is that they may get bored or restless during the flight. To help keep them entertained, pack some toys, books, and snacks. You may also want to download some movies or TV shows onto your electronic devices. Keep an eye on your kids so they don't disturb other passengers. Most kids will take nap time or fall asleep throughout the entire flight.
upon landing, check the whole family to ensure everyone is accounted for. If you have a car seat or any kids carry, make sure you take it with you upon arrival. Don't forget any checked luggage. I have realized that kids prefer to wheel their own suitcases at the airport. It seems to be a fun activity for them.
Things to consider when taking a train trip with your family
Finally, if you are taking a train trip with your family, there are a few things you will need to keep in mind.
First, be sure to check the train schedule in advance.
keep extra diapers and wipes for unexpected spills whiles you are onboard the train.
Some kids and even parents experience motion sickness on trains so keep an eye on every family member
Check if the train has wi-fi service. Train routes are mostly through remote areas and your phone's cellular network might not work everywhere. Having wi-fi will help increase the entertainment options for both parents and kids
If you are going on a family vacation with kids, verify if the train has an option for a car seat.
Ensure that your seating on the train are at the same place. It is family travel so everyone should be in close proximity.
Pack enough food and drinks for the trip.
And lastly, always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your children at all times.
Location of the hotel
There are many hotels in the world regardless of the location of your next trip. When traveling with your family, it is important to consider your choice of hotel based on the activities you plan to do. It is important to get a hotel within walking distance of most of the activities you aim to do. For example, if you are traveling with your family to a destination resort in South America, then you will definitely book a hotel inside that resort. If you are traveling to the east coast and you plan to be at the beach for most of the time, then you need to find a hotel close to the beach.
Type of hotel
I have worked in the hotel industry for some time now and I will advise parents to choose carefully the type of hotel they decide to book especially when traveling with kids.
All hotels are not the same. Some offer full services like valet, doormen/bellmen services, and a kids' play area, among other amenities. Other hotels have none of those services. If your family consists of young children, then it is advisable to get a hotel that will offer some form of kids' amenities.
I used to work at a five-star hotel with a full playground for kids. Parents loved it because it gave them the opportunity to have some alone time. It was referred to as "kids' home away from home". Kids will play, eat, fall asleep and make new friends in the process whiles their parents were also having fun. It was always a win-win situation for the parent and child and that's what makes a perfect family travel vacation.
The type of hotel room
There are various types of rooms at every hotel. You can get a penthouse at some hotels if your budget can cover that. You can get a suite which usually comes with a bedroom and a living area. Or you can get a standard room. It all depends on your budget and the composition of your family.
When you choose a standard room, make it a point to request for double bed for yourself and the kids. Some hotels offer cribs if you have toddlers. It is a great idea to have a scheduled bedtime when you travel with kids. This will help them get enough rest and also reduce screen time
Tips for Traveling with Kids
Make a list of activities that your kids will enjoy, and be sure to bring along plenty of sunscreens, water bottles, and snacks.
Bring some familiar items like their favorite toys with you
If you're traveling by air, try to book a direct flight whenever possible. This will help minimize the amount of time your kids spend in airports and on planes.
If you're staying in a hotel, ask for a room with two beds – this way, your kids can have their own space to sleep.
Plan some downtime each day, so your kids can have nap times or just relax without having to worry about doing anything touristy.
Enroll your kids in a local summer camp or daycare program. This will give you some peace of mind while you're away, and it can also be a great opportunity for your kids to make new friends.
If you're traveling with a baby or toddler, pack plenty of diapers and wipes, as well as formula or baby food.
You may also want to bring along a few favorite small toys and books to keep your child entertained.
Get a babysitter when you want to step out for some parent time
If you travel with other families, you can rotate the babysitting duties
Bring along a pacifier if you have a young kid. This will help with their sucking motion
