Kids – we can’t get too much of them, can we? Even if they’re playing Russian roulette with our last nerve, we still love them. So, when it comes time to take a family vacation, we want to bring them along! But traveling with kids can be tricky.
What will they eat?
How will they sleep?
What if they get bored on the drive there?
These are just some unending questions plaguing parents as they try to gear up for a family vacation.
But, there’s always a silver lining – and in this case, it comes in the form of helpful tips!
We will share ten tips to make traveling with kids easier:
Ask Them Their Preferences:
We all have expectations, regardless of our age and the situation. The same goes for kids! If they’re old enough to understand what’s happening, include them in the decision-making process. Let them know the different options and ask for their feedback. It will make them feel more invested in the trip and later prevent meltdowns. For instance, if they want to spend more time at the beach rather than touring museums, try to make that happen.
Make A Packing List Together:
Again, this is all about involvement! If you request your kids to help you pack, they’ll be less likely to complain about what they have (or don’t have) with them on the trip. It’s also a fun opportunity to teach them about packing light and only bringing the essentials. Of course, you’ll need to be the final decision-maker, but letting them have a say will go a long way. Some essentials that must always make it into the suitcase:
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Swimsuits
- Clothes for layering
- Comfortable shoes
Make Arrangements for Airport Pickup:
Long flights and crowded airports can be tough on anyone – but they’re especially challenging when traveling with kids. New York Airport Limo Service offers a convenient and comfortable solution: a chauffeur will pick you up in a luxury car and drive you to your destination. This way, you can avoid the stress of public transportation with young children in tow. You can also request child seats and car seats at no extra charge.
Avail Child Discounts:
No one despises the idea of saving money – and when you’re traveling with kids, every penny counts. So, whenever possible, take advantage of child discounts! Many airlines offer reduced rates for children, and you may be able to find deals on hotels and attractions as well. It never hurts to ask – and it could save you a lot of money in the long run. The best ways to look for them are:
- Asking the airline when you book your flight
- Checking the website of the place you’re visiting
- Calling ahead to ask
Create A “Boredom Buster”:
It is especially important if you’re going to be traveling by car. Put together a little “boredom buster” bag for each kid with some of their favorite snacks, books, and toys. It will help keep them occupied during the trip and (hopefully) prevent complaints. You can also look for family-friendly activities along the way and make a few stops. It might add some time to your trip, but it will be worth it in the end.
Travel During Their “Good” Times:
This one is crucial, especially if you have young children. You’ll want to plan your trip around their daily routine. For example, if they’re used to taking a nap at a certain time, try to work that into the schedule. The same goes for mealtimes and bedtime. It will help keep them (and you!) on a somewhat normal routine and make the trip less stressful.
You can also look for appropriate family transportation with enough space for your kids to sleep and move around. For instance, if you’re a family of 7 or above, traveling in SUVs, limos, sprinter vans, and coach buses will be a good choice.
You might be tempted to try and explore as much as possible, but that’s not always the best idea when traveling with kids. They can get overwhelmed and cranky quickly, so take it slow.
Don’t Overdo It:
If you’re hiking, take plenty of breaks. If you’re touring a city, only hit up the must-see spots. You can always come back later when they’re older! You can also hire a luxury car or limousine to enhance the comfort and convenience of your family transportation. Like this, even if they are tired and don’t want to leave the car, you’ll be certain they are safe and sound.
Choose the Best Car for Children:
What do kids want? Cocomelon! That’s right. So, when hiring an NYC car service, look for ones with screens in the back. It will help keep your little munchkins entertained and make the trip more pleasant for everyone. Besides that, they want space and comfort. And you want a safe family vehicle with enough room for all your gear.
Luckily, most limo services offer top-of-the-line, well-maintained, and spacious vehicles. Since they have professional drivers, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Create A “Kid’s Travel Journal”:
Do your teens and tweens seem uninterested in the trip? Get them excited about it by helping them create a “kid’s travel journal.” They can use it to document their experiences, write down their thoughts, and sketch out the places they visit. It’ll keep them busy and, best of all, boost their creativity. If not sketch pads and notebooks, they can also use tablets and phones. It’s a fun task. And they will have stories to tell their friends when they return home.
Prepare for The Worst:
No one likes to think about the bad things that could happen, but it’s important to be prepared. Ensure you have a first-aid kit and the contact information for the nearest hospital or medical facility. It’s also a good idea to have a list of allergies for each family member. That way, if someone does have a reaction, you’ll be able to tell the medical staff what they need. Some over-the-counter medications can also be helpful, like Dramamine, for motion sickness.
Wrapping Up:
There you have it, ten tips to consider when traveling with kids. Following these tips can make the trip more enjoyable for everyone. And don’t forget to choose the right transportation. It can make all the difference in the world! To determine which car service is best for your needs, analyze the size of your family, budget, and itinerary. Doing so will help you find the perfect way to get around NYC with your kids.