Spring Break is right around the corner for many and that means that summer is not that far off! Many families are starting to fretfully plan their annual trip to Disney, the Grand Canyon, and beyond.
Traveling with the offspring doesn’t have to be a source of stress. In reality, it can be just as fun as you make it. Here are some tips to help you get there in one piece and make memories that will last a lifetime!
1. Arrive early If you have children, then you want to arrive extra early to the airport. There is nothing more frustrating than rushing across terminals with crying little ones, despondent older ones, and out of sorts middle ones. Cut out the stress and get there an extra hour or so earlier than you need to. That will give you time to check in and calmly walk to your gate. There’s a smorgasbord of eateries at the airport and many other things to keep the kids entertained while waiting to board. Make sure that all of your electronics are charged up and ready to go and sit back and people watch until it’s your time to take off!
2. Pack the board games and snacks Pack a few extra things such as board games and/or cards to keep the kids entertained. Batteries will die and sometimes in-flight plugs just don’t work. There is nothing worse than the kiddos looking to for entertainment on a crowded three-hour flight. You don’t want to hear the entire time, “are we there yet?” Additionally, make sure that you have your own bag full of snacks that your kids love to eat. It may take a while for the flight attendants to make their rounds, so when the airport burgers and fries weren’t enough, pull out your personal stash. You will be their hero.
3. Pack your sense of humor If you are delayed-you will need it! There’s nothing more frustrating for adults to have their flight delayed, so you can imagine how your children feel. But, don’t fret and show them that you are not stressed about having to wait at the airport. Pull out those board games that you packed, set up camp in a corner for you and your family, and have fun. There’s nothing you can do about the delay, so make the best of it!
4. Books, audiobooks, and coloring books too Never underestimate the power of a good book. Whether it’s an audiobook, regular book, or coloring book, these make for great distractions during a long trip, no matter what age group is aboard.
5. Just breathe This is a VACATION. It is not supposed to be stressful. You are supposed to have fun. So, if your plan doesn’t pan out how you expect it to, just create a new one and go with the flow. Focus on making memories because the kids will be gone before you know it.
