Five Ways to Make Travel with Kids Easier Introduction We’ve all heard the horror stories. Kids screaming on planes, throwing fits in public, and throwing off scheduled itineraries by refusing to cooperate. There’s hardly a worse trifecta in all of travel. For this reason, it’s understandable if you have qualms about taking that next vacation with your kids. After all, no one wants to end up wasting their hard-earned vacation money. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of the five best ways to make traveling with your kids easier. By following the information in this guide, you’ll never have to worry about bringing the whole family along for vacation. Let’s take a look at these tips so you can make the most out of your next trip—for you and for your family! 1. Don’t Disrupt Your Routine This one comes first on our list because it’s such a biggie. If you have young children, it’s important that they stick to the same routine. It doesn’t matter if you are in Paris or in Beijing—your child is used to a certain schedule. This means that you should try and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same times you would at home. It also means, however, that you should let your child enjoy his or her regular naptimes and breaks. It may be tempting to be on the go all the time, but setting aside a little time for your child could go a long way to making your trip enjoyable. Nobody wants a cranky toddler on their hands—especially in a foreign country. 2. Plan Your Seats Carefully When booking your flight, it’s crucial that you plan your seats carefully. This means that if your child goes to the bathroom a lot, you should stick him in an aisle seat. Conversely, if he’s hyper, you should stick him in a window seat where he’s well-contained. Depending on the size of your family, you may find the back of the plane more appropriate. While you may want to be the first of the line, it’s worth having the extra time to make sure you have everything before you leave. After all, you don’t want to forget Johnny’s blankie because he stuffed it under the seat when you weren’t looking. 3. Let Your Kids Push the Luggage If your kids are old enough, let them push any rolling luggage. This allows them to channel their energy and learn responsibility. Remember that traveling is a learning lesson for them. Requiring your children to push the luggage and help out when they can is a great way to teach them the seriousness of traveling and following the proper protocols. In general, children aged seven and up should find it easy to help out during travel (though the actual appropriate age depends on your specific children and situation). 4. Travel During Nap Time Want to make the most out of your trip? Then travel during nap time! Your kids don’t always have to nap in the hotel. Try and coordinate it so that your kids can sleep in the car. This gives your kids the rest they need and you the time to enjoy ever item on your itinerary! 5. Plan Kid-Oriented Activities Last but not least, you should strike a balance between adult- and kid-themed activities. Remember that—even if your children are young—they are part of the vacation experience. This means that you shouldn’t overload your trip with too many adult activities. Instead, try and find a balance. Schedule a visit to the zoo or local amusement parks. When everything’s quieted down, then go to that fine art museum you’ve always dreamed of seeing. Finding the perfect balance will help you and your kids enjoy the ultimate vacation experience.

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