Gone are the days when I could spontaneously pack up and go on a quick vacation. As a mother of two toddlers, planning a family vacation requires a whole new level of preparation. After a few years of experience, I can confidently say that I’ve mastered the process. So when my friends who are new moms ask me for advice on planning a family vacation, I have plenty of tips to share.
With summer approaching, many of you may be in the early stages of planning your annual summer vacation. If you have toddlers or children now, I understand how overwhelming it can be. But fear not! I’m here to share my tips and tricks. With insights from the experts at Tiny Travelship, I’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to plan a family vacation. If you want a well-organized approach to family travel and ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience, including yourself, consider this your go-to resource. Ready to get started? Let’s go.
The age of your children plays a significant role in determining the type of vacation that suits your family. When my children were infants, we couldn’t travel outside of our time zone due to their sleep training. However, flying with a baby was easier than entertaining a restless toddler. Understanding your children’s needs at each stage will help you make informed decisions about your vacation plans.
I spoke with Frankie from Tiny Travelship to get some insight into planning a vacation based on your child’s age. Here’s a breakdown:
– Parental Pampering Stage (0-6 months): Take advantage of this time when your baby is small, sleepy, and easy to carry. You deserve some “you” time.
– Snacking and Snoozing Stage (6-12 months): Look for places with separate sleeping spaces if your child is used to their own room at home. Having access to a kitchen can also be helpful as your baby starts weaning.
– Tearaway Toddler Stage (12-24 months): Incorporate activities that are easy to reach and suitable for active toddlers, such as local play parks or farms.
– Me, Me, Me Stage (24 months+): Take advantage of kids clubs and other offerings provided by hotels. They are designed to keep your little ones entertained and engaged.
– Older Years (5 years+): Involve your children in the planning process and consider their needs and preferences. Have a family discussion and make sure everyone’s interests are taken into account.
Now that you have considered your children’s ages, it’s time to choose a suitable destination. Look for family-friendly locations that cater to the specific needs of children of all ages. Seek recommendations from trusted sources and consider factors such as child-friendly accommodations, nearby activities, and accessibility.
Establishing a budget is crucial to ensure a stress-free vacation. Consider all the expenses, including flights, accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities. Research and compare prices to find the best deals and packages. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like childcare, equipment rental, or travel insurance. It’s also worth checking if you have any air miles that can be used for your trip.
With a destination and budget in mind, it’s time to plan the logistics of your trip. Book flights or arrange alternative modes of transportation. If you’re traveling by plane, check the airline’s policies regarding traveling with kids. Make sure to bring items that will keep your children entertained during the journey. Book accommodations that are suitable for families, such as spacious rooms with separate sleeping spaces and kitchen facilities. Research transportation options at your destination or consider renting a car for convenience.
Before your trip, make sure all family members have valid passports and check visa requirements for your chosen destination. Keep copies of important documents and store them securely during your travels.
Packing for a vacation with children can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to pack efficiently. Create a checklist of essential items for your children, including clothing, diapers, wipes, medications, and comfort items. Consider shipping bulky or non-essential items ahead to your destination to minimize luggage.
Research and plan activities that cater to your children’s interests and needs. Look for local play parks, farms, museums, or child-friendly attractions near your accommodation. For older kids, consider amusement parks or shopping malls. Take advantage of hotel amenities like kids clubs or childcare services for some adult time. Seek recommendations from fellow parents or online communities for child-friendly activities at your destination.
Proper planning allows you to have a vacation that caters to your children’s needs and provides a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. Bon voyage!