Traveling with your kids can be rewarding, creating lifelong memories and fostering curiosity. Despite the benefits, family travel has downsides, from budget concerns to logistical worries. Read on to discover 6 common mistakes you make when traveling and learn how to avoid them for a smoother and more enjoyable experience, whether on a beach getaway or a European escape.
#1: Uniting Family Seats for a Seamless Journey
Ensure a smooth family trip by avoiding the mistake of booking separate seats. The journey sets the trip’s stage. Invest in tickets that allow for seat selection in advance to ensure sitting with your kids. Some airlines offer fee-free family seating, but it’s not guaranteed, so research thoroughly. It’s normal to pay an extra charge for worry-free seating if needed.
#2: Happy Tummies, Happy Travels
Prevent cranky kids during travels by packing enough food and avoiding the pitfall of relying on airplane meals. Have their favorite snacks on hand for picky eaters. Some airlines, like Air France and British Airways, offer child-friendly meal options or a ‘Feed Kids First’ policy, catering to picky and adventurous eaters.
#3: A Wardrobe Solution for Happy Traveling
Prevent unexpected messes by traveling with an extra set of clothes for your kids. Kids are prone to getting dirty, and even a small mess can disrupt your plans.
Go a step further and consider wearing something disposable during travel. This proactive approach can save you from the hassle of laundry bills and potential extra costs for cleaning particularly stubborn stains.
#4: Jet Lag Mastery
Avoid underestimating the impact of jet lag, especially with kids. Resist the temptation to power through upon arrival at your destination. Instead, take a short nap before continuing with your day’s plans. Depending on the timing, booking your hotel room for the night before your arrival might be a strategic move. A day with exhausted kids and parents is unlikely to be successful. Make sure they get a two-hour nap to recharge before powering through the rest of the day with a well-thought-out plan.
#5: Navigating International Travel Smoothly
Prevent an international travel nightmare by being aware that child and baby passports expire faster than adult ones. Adult passports are valid for 10 years, but passports for children under 16, as noted by the U.S. Department of State, are only valid for five years.
Additionally, it’s wise to travel with a copy of a child’s birth certificate, especially if there’s a different last name than the parent, as a smart precaution to navigate potential border issues. Stay informed about these passport rules and official documents to ensure a seamless international travel experience.
#6: Travel Medicine Guide for Kids
Prevent travel stress by ensuring you bring enough medicine for your kids. Kids often get sick, and searching for a pharmacy, especially in a foreign country with dosage conversion rates, can be inconvenient. Simplify your life by packing common over-the-counter medicines like painkillers or allergy medicines. Being prepared with these essentials ensures you have a solution when needed, making your trip more comfortable and worry-free.