If you’re taking a long vacation with your kids, it could go one of two ways. It could either be a wonderful experience, creating memories for the entire family that will last a lifetime, or it could be a complete disaster. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to avoid a disastrous trip, by simply planning ahead. Here are a few things you should know before embarking on your journey:
Slow Your Pace
Don’t expect to go at the same blistering pace as your kids when you took trips before having them. This is especially true if they are younger. Be realistic about the energy level your kids are going to have and plan accordingly. The less you have scheduled in a day, the more stress-free and enjoyable your sightseeing will be.
Pack Smart
Rather than opting to bring everything you think you might need, pack lightly and bring the essentials. You can always purchase the extra things you need once you arrive at your destination, and hauling around a ton of luggage in addition to keeping track of the kids will really put a damper on your vacation.
Pick a Kid-Friendly Location
Keeping your kids entertained is essential to a successful vacation. If your kids become bored, they can quickly turn a pleasant trip into a nightmarish one, with constant begging to do something enjoyable.
The trip should be fun for everyone, so make sure to pick a location, like Viejas outlets, that is nearby attractions that the whole family would enjoy. The less traveling and time you have to spend getting to your attractions, the more enjoyable the trip will be for the whole clan. A resort or hotel that has a pool or game room on site is even better.
Build in “Me” Time
Regardless of all the fun activities you may have planned for your family, it’s still a good idea to build in some time away from the kids on your vacation. Your kids will want to have time on their own burning off energy and having fun with those in their own age group, and the parents will enjoy some time to rest and be alone as well.
Be Flexible
Flexibility is crucial when traveling with kids. They oftentimes can change their minds about what it is they want to do on a moment’s notice. Instead of letting this frustrate you by having to deviate from hard-scheduled plans, enjoy some spontaneity with your kids, and just go with the flow. You are, after all, on vacation.
