Tips For Traveling with Your Kids This Holiday Season

'Tis the season of travel, and with that comes a ton of anxiety for parents. Whether you're flying, driving, boating, or taking a train, the thought of packing and keeping your little ones entertained can quickly become overwhelming. If you have travel plans this holiday season, here are a few tips for traveling with kids that you can use to help make the experience (virtually) stress-free!

Don't Overpack

There's nothing worse than navigating the airport with multiple pieces of luggage and your child in tow. As parents, it would seem that overpacking is in our DNA as we try to account for any possible circumstance we may encounter. Simplify your life and choose versatile clothing options that allow you to pack less. If you're staying in a hotel, check to see if they have laundry service beforehand and do a load during the trip. The fewer items you have to watch, the better, so take a note from the minimalistic philosophy, and don't overpack!

Bring Snacks

Snacks are a parent's best friend and can be a lifesaver if you encounter travel delays. Packing your child's favorite foods will keep them occupied and happy, which everyone around you will appreciate. Avoid bringing sugary food or drinks which can cause a sugar high and make your little one hyper; instead, stick to healthier options like apple or crackers.

Plan For Stops

If you're driving, plan ahead to make stops along the way. Children get notoriously antsy after sitting in a confined space for too long, causing tempers to rise. If you have a long drive, booking a hotel room where you and your family can unwind for the night is an excellent way to make the trip more enjoyable and keep you from feeling exhausted. If you plan ahead, you can help ensure you have a peaceful trip the whole family enjoys.

Bring Entertainment

Entertainment is vital for kids since their attention spans are relatively short. Packing multiple activities that they can choose between will guard against boredom and the inevitable tantrums that follow! If you limit your child's screen time, be sure to pack books, coloring activities, and more that will keep them happy and occupied no matter how long the commute! Also, check out these fun roadtrip games that are sure to keep the whole family entertained: https://minnesota-resorts.com/road-trip-19-games-and-challenges-for-the-car/.

Don't Forget Your Own Needs

Traveling with kids is exhausting; your attention is pulled in a hundred different directions, which can leave you feeling burned out. Don't forget to prioritize self-care as you travel, doing small things to help make the time more enjoyable. You don't have to do anything big; try reading a book or taking five minutes to yourself. Allowing yourself to unwind is key to creating an enjoyable travel experience with your kids.

If you're one of the millions of people traveling this season, you can use the tips above to help ensure it is an enjoyable time for the entire family. Spending time with the ones you love is a gift, so try to cherish the special moments and remember the difficult ones will soon pass!

Have any other tips or tricks for traveling with children? Tell us in the comments!