Tips for Traveling with Kids
Many families are making plans to hit the road during vacation season. Whether you are planning to travel by plane, train, car, motorhome or minivan, embrace the adventure of a family trip.
Plan
Research your destination as well as any stops along the way. How long will it take to get there? Perhaps you can locate parks or picnic areas where children can play and burn off some energy.
If you are traveling by plane, allow extra time for your family to get through security, especially when traveling with younger children. Talk with your children about the security screening process before coming to the airport, it is a bit intimidating. Let them know that all bags and items must be put through the X-ray machine and will come out the other end and be returned to them.
Be aware if your child has their own assigned seat for the plane ride they are required to sit in that seat, buckled up for both during takeoff and landing. The change in altitude is sometimes hard for children and their ears hurt. Drinking or chewing is the best way to “pop” the ears for very young children, older children may choose to chew gum to help with the pressure they are feeling. Snacks maybe available for purchase before or during the flight. If you prefer to plan ahead, bring a small quart-size plastic bag filled with various “non messy” snacks. Remember to have wipes handy to use as needed.
Unless you are visiting family who are familiar with the area, what else is there to do there? School age children can have a say in the activities you plan. Search online for family-friendly places and activities, depending on your destination there are literally hundreds of links to check out. Another thing to think about is hotel vs. rental house. What will fit your needs best? A little more space instead of all being in one room for hours at a time, may be more restful and relaxing.
Prepare
Preparation is key in reducing stress. Packing for a plane trip is much different than ground travel. Road tripping means you can pack more comfort items. Do you have anyone in the family who is prone to becoming carsick? We do in my family and I was sure to have an ice cream bucket (with a lid) and wet wipes to clean up a mess, plus extra plastic bags that I could use the line the bucket for use again. Some people feel best in the middle of the back seat so they can see straight ahead. It’s best to ask your child’s physician before giving any medication to quell the nausea, making sure to get the right dosage and what is OK for children. Remember to bring your family insurance card in case you need medical help during your time away from home. Bring along ALL the required medications for each family member.
Take along whatever your children will need to entertain themselves. Infants could be the best travelers, their routine is eat, sleep, play repeat. Make sure you have the soothing items a baby might need including pacifiers, bottles and blankets that smell like home. Toddlers will need a few distractions. Pack favorite small toys, any special blanket or stuffed animal that bring the comfort of home on your trip. Older children may want their electronics, a book to read or sketchbook to doodle with. Headphones and a cozy blanket can make for quiet restful trip. Download a few new apps before the trip and be sure to have all devices fully charged before you head out. Don’t forget the chargers, needed for later.
Play
Making time to play is one of the best ways to get the muscles moving again after sitting for a long time for both kids and adults. A few of the places to visit on vacation may include the zoo or a children’s museum, it is after all a family trip. Older children may want to say in which activities they consider fun, so offer choices. Water fun, hiking, zip lines, local or professional sports games are just a few possibilities. Think safety when you arrive at your place to stay. Are any stairs blocked for those young ones just learning to crawl and explore? If bike riding is on your list of activities, make sure that everyone has a helmet.
Whatever your trip destination, take a deep breath and enjoy the journey. Don’t overdo it; trying to get everything done all in just a few days will just overwhelm everyone. Family travel provides opportunities to make the memories that last a lifetime.
By Twila Perkinson, Avera Family Life Educator
Learn more about children's care at Avera
