If you are traveling with kids, have them bring toys and games for the ride. When kids are bored, not only will they bother you with constant questions about when you will get to the desired location, but you will also find yourself making more stops for bathroom breaks and fast-food, as they try to find ways to entertain themselves.
Bring a bag-of-fun for your kids. Make sure to have enough supplies to keep your kids entertained for the duration of the flight. There’s nothing worse than an, “Are we there yet,” ten minutes into a three-hour flight. Card games, special coloring books, and puzzles work well and, if you can afford one, pick up a portable video player. The hours of entertainment value are well worth the cost.
If you’re going on a road trip with kids, try bringing some cookie sheets along with you. They’re great to use as lap trays for eating in the car. The having the edges curved up with prevent any spills too and they’re easy to clean off quickly. You can also flip them over and the kids can use them as desks for coloring, writing, or playing a game.
Another good way to get some sleep on an airplane is by using headphones or ear plugs. This will drown out the constant engine noise and also the little kids and talkative adults on the plane. You will be able to relax and get some much needed rest.
If you’re going on a long road trip with kids, try swapping seats with them every once in a while. This makes them feel good since they’re sitting in the seat only mommy or daddy normally sit in. It will also keep them busy for a while, since they’ll get to see things they normally wouldn’t see.
When going on vacation with younger kids, try to get a room where it would be easy to eat in. This will make it easier on you and the kids. After a long drive to the destination, the last thing they want to do is sit still and eat. It is nice to be a bit free, even during meal time.
When traveling, it’s not always necessary to stay together. Let Mom take the kids one day while Dad enjoys a round of golf. The next day Mom should relax in the spa while Dad and the kids enjoy some pool time. Splitting up allows each parent to enjoy a much needed break during travel time.
If you are traveling with children, purchase disposable cameras for them. They do not cost a lot of money, and they will keep your child busy throughout the trip. Ask your kids to snap pictures of anything they want to remember from the trip, and you may end up with some pretty interesting pictures.
