#1: Be sure to take plenty of stops:

Nobody likes to travel, especially children. Everyone wants to get to and from their destination as quickly as possible. Long lines, busy airports, delayed flights, noisy places, etc. they are difficult enough for adults to handle, let alone young children. When traveling with children, you should do everything possible to make them as comfortable as possible. Frequent bathroom visits, snacks, and just “running” will allow children to adjust better to travel.

#2: Relax and take your time:

Do not rush, remember that you are on vacation! When you’re in a rush, you’re not only stressing yourself, but everyone else in your group as well. It’s much better to take your time and relax. Everyone traveling with you will feel more comfortable, and the people around you will appreciate it too.

#3: Keep your kids busy.:

Unfortunately, children get bored easily. Be sure to pack toys, games, coloring books, cards, etc. to help keep the kids busy with the activity. You may also consider starting a vacation journal where they can write where they have been or draw or take pictures of the places they visit.

#4: Keep children fed and hydrated:

Whether you’re traveling by plane or by car, be sure to pack plenty of extra fluids and snacks for the kids. Children’s stomachs are smaller than yours and they probably use much more of their food for energy and growth. On long journeys, this is especially important not only for your children but also for you.

#5: Trip at Night or Early in the Morning:

Although this can be difficult to do with air travel due to the schedule, traveling overnight and in the morning is much better. The reason is easy; they most likely want to sleep. This makes traveling easier for both kids and parents, because by the time the kids wake up, you may already be at your destination.

#6: Keep kids involved:

When adults plan vacations, it’s easy to forget that kids need to do something, too. Visiting the Louvre in Paris France or the Prado in Madrid Spain might be great for adults but will probably bore kids to death. Be sure to schedule children’s activities throughout the day. If you feel you must visit these places, please limit the visit to a maximum of one or two hours.

#7: Pack something extra:

Don’t forget to pack plenty of clothes when traveling with children, especially babies. Children tend to spill food and drink and when traveling with a baby, bathroom emergencies always arise! This doesn’t mean packing everything, but just a few extra items in case you have that “blowout.”

#8: Use the children’s services available:

Be sure to take full advantage of what’s on offer; especially free. Most airlines allow pre-boarding for families traveling with small children. There are also children’s discounts available everywhere, including amusement parks, museums, tours, movie tickets, etc.

#9: When in doubt, ask for help:

We have all been there; you forgot something or just need an extra hand to carry something. Most airlines and hotels cater to children so if you forgot something just ask. From diapers to baby formula, most needs can be met. Don’t forget that employees often have children, so they are more than willing to help when needed.

#10: Stay sane:

At some point in the trip you will lose things, delays will occur (especially outside of busy airports), and things will go wrong. So don’t panic! Take a deep breath, relax and things will take care of themselves. If your children see distressed parents, they will react in the same way. Always remember the big picture; You’re creating lifelong memories for you and your family to enjoy for years to come and one little hiccup isn’t a worry on your vacation.