If your summer plans include traveling with children, first God bless you for taking on this task, and second- maybe some of these tips can help!
“Are we there yet” sings out from the back seat for the sixteenth time in twelve minutes and you question just why you thought a vacation would be a good idea. But there are memories to be made, dadgum it, and you want to give your child good memories so help you! I’ve got you covered. I did the research and compile a list of tips, tricks, and helpful hacks that aren’t just useless ramblings.
Getting there
-Start with no technology, save that for when your children are getting very impatient and tired of riding. At the beginning give books, toys, or games.
-Dress as comfortable as you can. This goes for everyone in the car. You can look cute and not be wearing clothes that are restrictive and making you grouchy.
-Put children’s shoes behind their seat. My kids shed their shoes every chance they get, and then they are gone when we need them. As soon as you load them, pop their shoes off and stick in behind their seats. Easy to find when needed again!
-Lay a sheet down under the car seats. Having a protective barrier under yucky seats helps with clean up from all types of spills.
-For babies string links between the handles in the back seat and attach their toys so they stay within reach and reduce frustration.
At your destination
-An ironing board can double as a table for eating or just an extra holding place for things!
-Store dirty shoes in shower caps.
-Bring a wet bag (designed for cloth diapers, so lined) as a dirty laundry hamper. It works great even with wet clothes like swimsuits.
-Used to streaming at home? Pack your Roku, Amazon, etc. device to take with you.
-The coffee maker can make more than just coffee, just add water meals are easy to prepare when you heat the water with the maker.
-To save money on eating out, use a grocery delivery service to bring groceries right to your room or rental!
The main thing to remember about vacations is your kids may not remember much. I can tell you my biggest thing I remember about vacations is we got to buy a multipack of small boxes cereal when we went on vacation. Don’t fret elaborate trips, picking something that stays consistent (like mini cereals) can be what your child fondly remembers.
