Going on a family vacation should be something to look forward to rather than dread. Having some time away with your loved ones to bond and see the world should fill you with excitement, so if you’re already panicking about the prospect of going away as a family, there are lots of stress-busting tips that you can use to help ensure everything runs according to plan.
Create an Itinerary
No matter where you’re heading to in the world, for those off on a family vacation, it’s important that you create an itinerary before you head out the door. With other thoughts and opinions to take into consideration, it’s only natural that you will want everyone to get the most out of the trip. The last thing you want is for arguments to occur while away, so sitting down with the family and planning what types of activities and attractions you all like will mean you are all on the same page and reduce the risk of tantrums!
Keep Routines the Same
If you’re traveling with children, kids function at their best when their routines are healthy and predictable. Understandably, going somewhere new and being in an unfamiliar environment may startle your kids, so doing your best to keep routines the same can help reduce stress levels. Whether it’s sticking to the same mealtimes or sleep routine, your kids need structure throughout the trip. Any slight changes can bring on mood swings and create an unhealthy atmosphere, so laying down the law from the beginning is important.
Keep Kids Entertained
If you’re traveling long haul for your vacation, kids can and do get bored very easily when on an airplane. No parent (or passenger for that matter!) wants to deal with a distressed child throughout a flight, so keeping your kids entertained will help make sure everything runs smoothly. There are several things that you can do such as bringing some toys and games that they can play. Downloading an audio or music book, as well as books that they can read. Kids like choice so try and bring as much as you can in your carry-on bag to help the time go by much quicker.
Take Time for Yourself
Getting from A to B and spending your days sightseeing can take its toll on your health and wellbeing. Going on vacation should be a time for you to relax and unwind, rather than feeling tense and on edge. If you’re traveling as a family, don’t feel guilty about taking some time for yourself. We all need some peace and tranquility at times, so whether it’s getting plenty of sleep, practicing relaxation techniques or having a pamper session at the hotel you’re in, there are numerous things that you can do to keep stress levels down.
Cutting Corners
While flight delays and cancellations are unavoidable, there are lots of strategies that you can take to cut corners and prevent stress for the whole family. Research public transport links, opening times for attractions, as well as the best restaurants and cafes. This will help make sure your trip runs according to plan. If you’re heading to Bali on a family vacation and want to explore other islands, going on a speed boat rather than a slow boat ride can make sure you get there much faster. Look for a ferry that offers online booking in English, as this makes chartering a boat easy.
No matter how long you’re going away for, all the suggestions and advice above can play a major part in ensuring your trip away runs smoothly for the whole family, as well as reduce stress levels.