Traveling with children can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. While it may come with its fair share of trials, it also presents an opportunity for unforgettable family memories.
I recently came back from our spring break vacation in Sicily and we had a wonderful time. It was the farthest we had traveled with our 6-year-old son (11 hours with a connecting flight in Turkey) and there was a 5-hour time difference 🙄. So of course, there were many moments where my son broke down and had some big feelings but there were also many amazing moments. He tried new foods (mussels + friend anchovies) and lived his best life eating lots of gelato, saw his second volcano, made homemade pasta and threw rocks into the Ionian Sea. Those memories are priceless.
With a little patience, preparation, and flexibility, you can turn your family vacation into a smooth and enjoyable adventure for everyone involved. Here are some tips to help you navigate traveling with your little ones.
Give Yourself (and your little one) Patience and Grace: First and foremost, remember to approach your travels with patience and grace. Children can be unpredictable, and traveling may disrupt their routines, leading to tantrums or meltdowns. Take deep breaths, stay calm, and try to handle situations with understanding and empathy. Keep in mind that this is an adventure for them too, and they may need extra support and reassurance along the way.
Pack plenty of Snacks: Food availability may vary depending on your destination, so it's essential to pack plenty of snacks that your children enjoy. Whether you're on a plane, train, or exploring a new city, having familiar snacks on hand can prevent hangry meltdowns and keep everyone satisfied between meals. Look for portable and non-perishable options like granola bars, fruit snacks, homemade trail mix or crackers.
Let Go of Expectations: One of the keys to successful family travel is to let go of rigid expectations. Understand that plans may change, flights may be delayed (our returning flight was delayed for almost 5 hours - 😑 ), and not everything will go according to plan. Embrace the spontaneity of the journey and be open to new experiences. By relinquishing control and going with the flow, you'll create space for unexpected adventures and cherished memories.
Adjust to Time Zone Differences: If you're traveling across different time zones, it's crucial to adjust your family's sleep schedule accordingly. Help your children acclimate to the new time zone by encouraging them to sleep when it's nighttime at your destination, even if it means staying awake during the journey. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can also aid in easing the transition and preventing jet lag.
Explore Parks and Outdoor Activities: When researching excursions and things to do at your destination, be sure to include parks and outdoor activities that cater to children. Parks offer ample space for little ones to run, play, and explore, providing a much-needed break from sightseeing and cultural outings. Engage your children in the planning process by letting them choose which parks they'd like to visit, creating excitement and anticipation for the adventure ahead.
Listen to more awesome traveling hacks on episode 167 of The Motherhood Village podcast.