We’d all like to think that travelling with kids is easy, but after a few spills, tantrums and the thousandth, “I’m bored”, a holiday can quickly turn into a very real desire to go home where you can actually relax! What’s needed is a bit of mindset change, some innovative preparation and a few clever hacks.
Slow down and leave yourself plenty of time at the airport to avoid stress.
Leave plenty of time to allow for a slower pace
Rushing around is a normal part of life with kids, however, if you don’t adjust this mindset while travelling, you’re in for a range of disasters. Leave plenty of time to get to the airport and go to the bathroom a hundred times before you board. Likewise, make sure everyone’s gone to the bathroom and eaten just before you get off the plane, in the case of long waits at customs and baggage claims.
Don’t arrange or attempt to stick to a tight schedule on holiday and you won’t need to worry about being anywhere on time. Just take it all slow, regardless of what’s going on around you, to eliminate a range of stress that comes from simply feeling rushed. Take each day as it comes and arrange sightseeing or activities while there, so you can remain flexible with the weather, upset tummies or conflicting desires.
Take new activities with you everywhere
You might lose the fight over having to pack at least one favourite toy with the little ones, but do yourself a favour and get new activities for the duration of the trip. Pulling out surprises in times of need really does work wonders in alleviating all manner of moods, not to mention getting you a few extra moments of peace by the pool. Just stock up on cheap activities that’ll fit in a little backpack among the baby wipes, to provide instant amusement in otherwise tantrum-inducing situations (it’s not bribery when you’re on holidays, it’s sanity!).
Do your research on child-friendly hotels.
Research child-friendly hotels
Many hotels might look fantastic in the pictures, but ask yourself if they’re truly suitable for kids.
Many hotels might look fantastic in the pictures, but ask yourself if they’re truly suitable for kids. Look for features like children’s pools, playgrounds, free breakfast and kid’s meals, cot and stroller hire and babysitting services. Hotels that are fully equipped for kids also come with instant friends, which, again, means more time for you to relax for a bit. Don’t forget to ask for child discounts at hotels, for tours and public transport, as they’re often available even if they’re not advertised.
Be prepared for adventures
Losing your child in a crowded tourist destination is a nightmare you don’t need, so be prepared. Pop the kids in bright colours, with a wristband displaying your phone number. It’s hard to avoid having to take things on excursions, so invest in a really comfortable daypack to suit your needs. Always take snacks in case you can’t find anything they like, and a small first aid kit with bandaids and antiseptic.
Travelling overseas with kids can be overwhelming, but with a little bit of extra organisation and a ‘slow travel’ mindset, you can simply take it as it comes and reap the blessings.