Monday, September 26, 2011

Preparing To Travel With Kids

By Carrie Westengate


When you travel with kids there are particular items you should make sure to take to make your journey less difficult by keeping the kids happier. You shouldn't be put off by what you may perceive as a tortuous event with fidgety and raucous, bored children.

Just get yourself prepared and you'll have a great journey. Unlike going with adults, children only need a little more forethought so that you can respond quickly to their needs. Planning is basically key, so follow these tips so you should not have any unanticipated problems.

Safety should always be critical and a glance around your house will give you some idea of the items you should take without packing the kitchen sink! Should you be vacationing in strange environments, you may find a small rubber doorstop useful. They can give a little more security if you're in a hotel as you can wedge the door from the inside to avoid them opening the door quickly and running out. A small nightlight is also a good idea in a unusual place since this can help them find the lavatory in the night.

The medical things you need to consider are Band-Aids, tissues, sun screen, antiseptic hand gel, wet wipes, pain killers (which are suited to children and adults) and emergency phone numbers. Of course, if your little one has a special condition you will know things to add to the list.

Travel with kids on long journeys can be quite a headache when children become bored. You've probably been asked, "how much further" or "how much longer" on many instances! Make sure to break the journey at least every couple of hours to give the driver a rest and also the children time to stretch their legs etc. Always take snacks and lots of drinks with you in the event you get caught in traffic jams.

Bring crayons, puzzle books, highlighter pens, pieces of paper, cards and some plastic bags. Taking closable bags are handy to put food, damp clothes and any bits and bobs the youngsters may acquire for example stones or shells off the beach. Handheld electronic games or portable DVD players may also be useful and if you already have them, your children will probably insist anyway. You might find an audio head set for this will come in handy for you!

Other items that you can consider include sun glasses and hats, umbrellas, a lightweight weight wind breaker or beach tent and your camera certainly. Finally, be sure you carry your passport and travel papers where you know you can find them the night before you go. This helps prevent last minute panics. Pinning notes to your front door to remind you can be helpful for a double check. Remember to take pictures of your kids with you in case they get lost.

The above can help you enjoy your trip more and avoid the dread of the journey when you travel with kids. Simply being well prepared and trying to keep them fed, watered and occupied is the key, so be sure you give this plenty of thought ahead of time.




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