Whether you plan to travel by air or driving, Thanksgiving and Christmas tend to be the busiest travel times of the year, so being prepared is important. Is your family among those traveling at some point during the holiday season? Before you begin to stress about that family road trip or flight across the country, check out these family holiday travel tips!
Prepare for the Unexpected
I’ve traveled a lot – with and without kids – and the single best travel tip I can provide is to prepare for the unexpected. Head over and read my “The Real Side of Motherhood” for a little more detail on those adventures, including the Clearwater Christmas trip my family will never forget.
I tend to pack more than most – not because I want to pack a ton of pairs of shoes or outfit changes – but because I’ve learned on all my travels that the unexpected always happens. That could come in the form of a sick child, a delayed flight turning into an overnight stay or a fire alarm going off at a hotel in the middle of the night. If any, all or something else entirely happens on your travels, if you go into it knowing anything could happen, you’ll be able to “roll with the punches” a little easier.
Snacks Are Your Friend
No matter your route of travel, snacks are vital. From a toddler to yourself, everyone is susceptible to being “hangry.” This is an easily avoided emotion though when you have enough snacks for your travels! If you have a baby or young toddler, baby food pouches are also great to have on hand. They allow your little one to get fruits and veggies which are often overlooked on trips and vacations.
Travel Mom Hacks
There are hack videos posted all day, every day for moms on social media. Put those to good use for you and your family! Do some hashtag or topic searches on Instagram or Facebook for travel hacks for moms, and you are sure to bring up tons of tips. Find those that work for you and your family, and incorporate them into your travel routine.
Keep Little Ones Busy
In addition to making sure your kids have plenty of snacks, pack plenty of things to entertain them, as well. This is a time where you should not feel guilty about letting your child watch a favorite show or movie on a tablet, phone, vehicle TV or portable DVD player. It’s a great way to buy at least a little peace and quiet. If you are flying, be sure to find some kid-friendly headphones for your electronics.
Books, small toys and coloring books (especially no-mess ones) are also great ideas to have on hand. On our two recent longer car trips, including one over last Christmas, each of my youngest daughters had a basket I kept on their floorboards filled with toys and books. Then, I’d just pull out something as needed to entertain them.
Rent a Minivan
If you aren’t a minivan family like us, road trips are the time to take that plunge and rent one. They provide so much more space and comfort than a car or SUV for extended riding times. Even if you have a minivan, you might want to consider renting one if it’s a long drive to avoid the mileage and wear-and-tear on your vehicle!
Wishing your family a happy holiday season and safe travels no matter where you are heading!
