With a little planning, summertime travel with the kids is one of the best ways to make lasting memories. Whether you choose to stay close to home or jet off some place far, far away, it’s important to consider how to balance the needs of your family with a little R&R for you and your significant other. We all know kids have boundless energy, and as adults, we need to recharge a bit in between excursions! Consider some of these ideas when planning:
BRING ALL THE ACTIVITIES
Depending on the age of your kids, you might be able to bring quite a few activities to occupy them while you relax. Think crafts, games – even giving them a camera to play around with – can be highly engaging for kids. And you’ll be avoiding the dreaded “Mom, I’m bored” scenario!
BOOK EVERYTHING IN ADVANCE
A family vacation is loads of fun when everything goes smoothly, and with a little-advanced planning it can actually open up those treasured “spontaneous moments” you’ll remember for a lifetime. But do your homework: book the right hotel, and reserve excursions, sightseeing tours, local celebrations and dining outings so you’re ready to go at check-in.
GIVE YOURSELVES A TIME CUSHION
This is especially key if you’re traveling with smaller kids. Toddlers want to explore everything and they are not old enough to understand the concept of time. Avoid the panic of nearly missing your flight by allowing for plenty of “wiggle room” throughout the trip.
EDIT THEIR PACKING
It’s important for kids to learn how to pack for a trip, just make sure you oversee the packing process while it’s happening (or check it out later). No one wants six-year-old Lucy to forget her favorite bathing suit! Many meltdowns can be avoided ahead of time with a little preparation and planning.
APP YOURSELF OUT
Whatever you might need, there’s an app for that. There are apps to track the location of your children, apps to help kids fall asleep, game apps and so many more. Download any possible apps you think might be of use, and use them!
CHOOSE A DESTINATION THAT IS KID FRIENDLY
Last, but not least, be very thoughtful when it comes to choosing your destination. There are a variety of ways to narrow this down. One way that many parents don’t realize is an option, is choosing a resort that offers kid camps and kid friendly entertainment. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that there are places that work hard to figure out all the different ways to entertain the kids so their parents can get a few moments to relax. Two examples of this include:
- Garden of the God Collection in Colorado Springs. This resort features swimming, movies, and even a snack bar that is all centered to keep children and teens happy and occupied. They have the chance to participate in different activities and make new friends. The best part? The center is conveniently located right on the resort grounds!
- Naples Grande Resort in Naples, Florida. One of the top family friendly hotels in Naples, the resort is conveniently located for guests looking to explore the charming city of Naples and the pristine natural areas nearby. Enjoy tours of the Everglades, various watersports, and three onsite pools including a spectacular waterslide.
Your family vacation will be all the more enjoyable if you’re able to get a few moments here and there all to yourself! Let the kids have a great time while you head off to the spa for a massage, or to the adults-only pool for a swim.
With a little pre-planning, creativity, and research, you’ll be all set to embark on the most exciting, engaging, and relaxing family vacation yet!
