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Tips for Traveling with Children from TRAVEL HACKS

FROM KEITH BRADFORD

Flight delays, traffic jams, lost luggage. Traveling, whether it’s a weekend in a new city or a bucket-list trip to the other side of the world, can often be hectic, stressful, and expensive. And if you’re traveling with kids, your to-do list—and your stress level—can be doubled. A little extra planning can help you avoid crises, meltdowns, and chaos during your trip. Build an agenda that balances planned activities with flexibility and downtime, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some tips to get you started:
  • Let your kids pick out a bright and colorful luggage tag. When it’s time to wait for your luggage, they’ll stay close and attentive because searching for their luggage becomes a fun “eye spy” game.
  • A lollipop alleviates that taking off/landing ear popping and pain in kids over three years old. Plus, it’s guaranteed to keep them entertained for a bit.
  • You can get a free baby bassinet on a plane. Some airlines have them onboard, and some have to be ordered beforehand, so make sure to contact the airline before your flight.
  • Make sure to throw a stain remover pen (such as the Tide-to-Go pen) in your bag before heading out for the day. Stains are like magnets to kids on vacation; it’s almost guaranteed you’ll use it!
  • Before taking your kid to a busy amusement park, write your contact info on their wrists and cover it with a liquid bandage. If they get lost, they will have your contact number, and the liquid bandage will stop it from rubbing off
  • Going out for the day with the kids? Grab half a roll of toilet paper or some tissues and put them in your backpack. You’ll most likely use them at some point during the day.
  • Throw everyone’s sleepwear and toothbrushes in one easy-to-reach bag. That way, when you get to your destination, you won’t have to fumble through a bunch of suitcases to get ready for bed on the first night.
  • Always make sure to pack a spare set of clothes for your kids in your carry-on. You’ll be glad you did when a messy moment arises.
  • Flying with young kids? When the airline employee calls that first group of people who “need extra time to board,” this includes you!
  • Save your kids from getting hangry during a flight by bringing a few of their favorite snacks. Airlines usually don’t have too many kid-friendly snack options.
  • Never underestimate the value of the “kids eat free” promotions. Many places around the world offer this and usually have the details about it on their websites.
  • When going somewhere super busy with kids, like an amusement park, make sure to snap a quick photo of them at the beginning of the outing. This way, if they get lost, you can show people an up-to-date photo with exactly what they’re wearing.
Travel Hacks

Any Procedures or Actions That Solve a Problem, Simplify a Task, Reduce Frustration, and Make Your Next Trip As Awesome As Possible

By Keith Bradford

Find the best travel deals, skip the lines, pack like a pro, and enjoy the easiest trip of your life with this definitive guide to making your next getaway smoother than ever.

Traveling is full of exciting new experiences and discoveries—but it can also be expensive, disorganized, and stressful if you don’t know the insider tricks to make it simpler. Travel Hacks includes hundreds of expert guidelines, hacks, and DIYs for staying relaxed while you plan, book, pack, and travel to your next destination.

Including more than 600 handy tips for everything from how to score discounts on transportation to packing efficiently and avoiding lines, delays, and crowds, Travel Hacks will make every aspect of your travel experience hassle-free. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or about to embark on you first trip, this is the all-inclusive guide to the stress-free vacation of your dreams.

Learn More