Traveling with the family can be a tiring and expensive affair. On one hand you can’t wait to take the kids out to see what the world has got to offer, but at the same time, you wish there were more kid-friendly activities and destinations out there.
Here are some of the toptravel hacksevery parent should know before globe-trotting with the little ones.
1. Bring a good luggage bag and carry-on bag
Chances are, you’ll need a big, roomy travel bag to store all your kids’ essentials, making thePacsafe Toursafe™ LS29 anti-theft wheeled upright andPacsafe Vibe 40 Anti-Theft 40L Carry-On Backpack makes the perfect travel companion. Not only is it spacious and roomy, but it’s also packed with plenty of zipped mesh pockets to help you organise your belongings. Not to mention, it also comes with internal compression straps to help you squeeze in those souvenirs and toys.
2. Organize your kids’ outfits
Here’s a tip to keep your day coordinated: Pack your children’s daily outfits in separate ziplock bags. Fill the bag with everything you need – shirts, pants, underwear and socks. Every morning, before their bath, just grab a bag and voila, you’re set!
Pro tip: Put a dryer sheet in the bag to keep your clothes fresh and fragrant.
3. Bring baby powder to the beach
Want to know the secret to removing sand from your skin? Baby powder. Just sprinkle some on your feet and it’ll keep the sand off your shoes, car and anywhere you go. This is especially useful if you’retraveling with children. They tend to run around and get sand all over their body. So, the next time you’re heading to the beach, bring a bottle of baby powder along.
4. Get your in-flight entertainment sorted out
Keep your children occupied with books, toys and puzzles. Spend a day shopping for the hottest toys or do it online if you’re busy. But, if you aren’t willing to spend, charge and load your iPad up with movies and educational games before the trip. Don’t forget to bring an over-the-ear headphones as earbuds don’t usually sit well in little ears.
5. Book a family room
Rent houses or kid-friendly apartments if possible. Though comfort and security is guaranteed in a hotel, it’s generally pricier (especially if you have a big family) and not to mention, the space is much smaller. Besides, renting a place means you can cook or eat in.
Pro tip: When searching for apartments or houses at AirBnB, check the ‘family friendly’ box on the amenities list, then look for listings with photos of children’s rooms.
6. Talk to your kids
Yes, we get it that they’re super excited and hyped for the holiday, but do they really know where they’re going and what they’ll be doing for the next couple of days in a foreign country? Discuss and talk to them about where you will be heading, and what to expect. Better yet, show them pictures of the destinations and hotel rooms you’ll be staying in. Excitement can easily turn into anxiety and this step really helps avoid that.
