Travel has been a cornerstone of our family life since my daughter was a baby. Initially, we stuck to nearby destinations and enjoyed local staycations. As she grew more adaptable and we gained confidence, our journeys expanded to exciting locations like Disneyland and Universal Studios Orlando. Recently, we even took the plunge into international travel.
With all the experiences we’ve had, especially after our recent trip to French Polynesia, I’ve accumulated valuable insights about traveling effectively with kids. It’s clear that children influence every aspect of our adventures. Here are eleven unconventional travel rules that have shaped our trips, refined through numerous journeys and a few learning curves.
1. No homework during the trip
This might not be a revolutionary idea, but it draws some scrutiny when kids miss school. Before taking my daughter out of school, I always inform her teacher ahead of time, making it clear we won’t be doing any homework during the trip. Not a single teacher has raised an issue. I prefer not to burden them with assignments and absolutely want to avoid the stress of trying to manage schoolwork while unwinding on a beach.
2. Learn key phrases in the local language
Arriving in a new country without any understanding of the native language is challenging, especially when expecting others to speak English. While many international destinations are familiar with English, it feels embarrassing to be unprepared. Now, our family makes it a point to learn essential phrases before the trip. This way, we’re communicating a bit more naturally and avoiding the awkwardness associated with relying heavily on Google Translate at restaurants.
3. Book a private car service for the ride home
After countless airport trips, I’ve come to realize that I want a seamless return home after a long journey. Waiting around at the airport or maneuvering multiple bags with a child in tow isn’t appealing. Instead, I now opt for a service like Blacklane. They offer professional drivers and reliable communication. I can close my eyes and let someone else handle the drive home.
4. Don’t plan trips around school breaks
We prioritize our own schedule when booking flights. With my husband working weekends, weekday trips suit us much better. I’ve noticed flight and accommodation prices soar during school breaks due to high demand. To avoid inflated prices and crowded destinations, we frequently travel during off-peak times instead.
5. Book red-eye flights
You may find it hard to sleep in economy, but kids usually don’t have that issue. On a recent overnight flight, my daughter slept soundly, making the hours fly by. It also eliminates a long day spent traveling. Plus, I appreciate the quieter atmosphere during nighttime travel compared to the morning rush.
6. Maintain a bedtime reading routine
While we don’t tackle schoolwork on our adventures, reading every night remains non-negotiable. As an avid reader, I embrace those precious moments each night with my daughter, helping her continue to develop her love for reading. This also keeps a part of our home routine intact, fostering comfort amid new experiences.
7. Encourage everyone to pack their own bags
I provide my daughter with a packing list detailing essentials like pants and shirts, allowing her to choose what to bring. Together, we finalize the selections. Travel is about enjoyment and exploration, but it also serves as an opportunity for her to grow and become more independent.
8. Consult with a travel agent
Utilizing the expertise of a travel agent opened my eyes to a world of possibilities. On our recent trip to French Polynesia, we connected with Tahiti Tourisme, who provided invaluable insights into where to stay and the best family-friendly excursions. If you’re a planner like me but find yourself overwhelmed with options, reaching out to a professional can ease the stress of planning.
9. Schedule screen time breaks
Travel can reach a breaking point for everyone, so we all take time to unwind. My daughter enjoys some showtime, while my husband and I catch up online. These little breaks are essential for recharging before we head out for dinner or activities. As other moms know, a moment of downtime is crucial during vacations.
10. Align bedtime for everyone
No late-night indulgences for mom and dad. We turn off the lights together. Given how tired we are from our adventures, turning in a little earlier is a relief for us all.
Every family’s travel experience looks different, but these “rules” have proven to be invaluable for me as I plan our journeys or navigate our escapades.
