This week we're joined by Daniel Sherwin from Dadsolo.com:
Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but it can also be stressful if you aren’t prepared. Whether you’re taking a road trip to the next state or heading across the country on a plane, there are several things you can do to make traveling easier on the entire family. Having a well-thought-out plan will ensure that you and your loved ones don’t suffer from stress or anxiety, even when something doesn’t work out as planned (and something always does).
Packing well, thinking about everyone’s comfort level, and making sure the kids have entertainment and snacks will go a long way toward helping you stay calm, which can boost your mental health and help you enjoy the trip. While no one can see into the future, thinking ahead will be an enormous benefit. Do some research to figure out the route you’ll be taking, plan your stops or layovers, and remember to give yourself extra time to get things done.
Keep reading for some great tips on how to make traveling with kids easier.
Photo via Pixabay by StockSnap
Pack Smart
Half of the success of any trip is due to how well you pack. Road trips require entertainment for little ones, snacks, a good first aid kit, and emergency supplies in case of an accident. Depending on the weather forecast and time of year that you’ll be traveling, you might want road flares, a jug of water, blankets, and a tire-changing kit in the trunk. Invest in a car charger for your phone if you don’t already have one. If you have more than one child, pack a small backpack for each one full of things to keep them entertained; not only will this help them pass the hours on the road, but it will also keep them from arguing about whose is whose.
Don’t Forget to Eat
One of the biggest mistakes many travelers make is forgetting to eat or not stopping to grab a bite because they want to make good time. Traveling with kids makes this nearly impossible, so just go with it. Pack healthy road-friendly snacks such as dried fruit, pb&j sandwiches, wraps, and pre-cut veggies and dip so you can stop at a rest area or park and fill up. When kids -- especially the little ones -- go too long without eating, things can get ugly. Help prevent stress for everyone by planning ahead.
Make Sure the Dog Is Taken Care Of
If you have a pet, making sure he’s well taken care of will prevent worry while you’re away. Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with him so his safety isn’t an issue. If you decide to bring your pet along on the trip, make sure you also bring his pet bed or blanket, toys, and food dishes so he’ll have something familiar while you’re away.
keep your dog happy
Let Your Teen Have Some Freedom
While traveling will make you more aware of the safety of your children, it’s always a good idea to allow your older kids to have a bit of freedom. When you’re in a secure place -- such as a store, landmark, or museum -- let them move away from you a little and explore on their own. Giving your teen some leeway to have some fun on their own will make the trip special for them.
Traveling with kids of any age can be a challenge, but with a good plan, you can make the process easier on everyone. Talk to your family members about your preparations for the trip so that everyone is on the same page, and remember to stay patient and take your time. Trying to stick to a rigid schedule rarely works when you have young children along with you.
About Daniel Sherwin from Dadsolo: Daniel is a single dad raising two children. At DadSolo.com, he aims to provide other single dads with information and resources to help them better equip themselves on the journey that is parenthood.
