Whether it’s your first trip or seventh trip, traveling with kids can be very daunting. You will go through many challenges and it is no surprise if at some point, you lose your sanity. However, we have prepared some tips that can help you to make a better trip with your kids.

#1. Take It Slow and Leave Plenty of Time

When you are traveling alone, you do not really take it slow, isn’t it? For example, you rush through the airport, use all of those secret shortcuts and get on the plant within 2 or 3 minutes. But, those days are now over and when you are traveling with kids, everything will take longer than you expect, such as:

• Checking in at the airport
• Getting through the security
• Buying snacks and drinks
• Boarding the place

That is why it is recommended to reach the airport as early as possible and leave plenty of time for things to go wrong (and trust me, with kids, things might indeed go wrong sometimes).

#2. Don’t Overpack 

All parents have a tendency to pack everything their kids use at home. We think that bringing everyday items will keep the routines consistent and you will have everything your kid will need.

Unfortunately, this is a horrible idea. As a parent myself, let me tell you that by the end of a that long trip, there is a high possibility that you will end up carrying your kid. And, obviously, I don’t think that you will want to carry 100 pounds of luggage too. This is why we think it is best to pack as little as possible.

Moreover, what’s great about traveling is that wherever you go, you will be able to buy almost anything you need for your children. Now, most probably, you won’t get the same brands, but you can still manage.

#3. Explain the Trip

We all know that when kids are uncomfortable, they are unhappy and unlike adults (well, at least most of them), children will not hesitate to show their unhappiness. Therefore, it is essential to introduce your kids to the trip in advance, especially if they are traveling for the first time.

For instance, you can go over an outline of the trip, explaining what can happen and what will be expected of the kids during the trip (for example, how they should behave on the plane and in the hotel). In this way, they will not ask too many questions, know what to expect and will be more comfortable as they know what’s going on around them.

#4. Give Kids Your Contact Information

Now, despite your best efforts, your child can get lost and in that case, you will want your kid to have your contact information.

These are the pieces of information that your child should always have:

• Full Name
• Phone Numbers
• Email address
• And of course, local address

Older kids would easily memorize these pieces of information. But, when it comes to younger children, the best method for them to keep your contact information is through a note held in one of their pockets (and if there are no pockets, try to stick a little card inside their show or tie it to their belt loop).

#5. Travel with Basic Medicines

Suppose you and your entire family, including your kids, of course, went on a trip to Paris and you are having a romantic moment with your spouse. What is that one thing that can easily ruin your romantic day or entire trip? A sick child!

Now, I am not saying that your kid is a burden, but if your kid has an upset stomach or is getting an asthma attack, it is best to be prepared for these kinds of scenarios.

Here are some over-the-counter medications that you should always bring with you while traveling:

• Headache medicines
• Allergy medicines
• Medicines for upset stomachs
• Motion sickness prevention medication

And remember, if your kid is taking a prescription medication, make sure to bring it with you.

How you ever made a trip with your kids? And, if yes, share your “amazing” experience with us in the comment section below!