Best ways to prepare for a trip with your kids!

“Are we there yet?” That question can strike dread in the heart of any parent. This is especially true when it comes to travel. Going on a vacation with children can quickly become a nightmare for the unprepared parent. When it comes to traveling with kids, there are several important steps every parent can take to help eliminate the “Are we there yet” blues.

One of the biggest steps any parent can take is to simply plan ahead. While many adults pride themselves on their adaptability, most kids thrive on routine. Nothing can make a family travel dissolve into chaos quicker than not planning ahead. Leave time to explore and not be rushed. This is important for little kids especially.

The next step is to make sure you have a backup for almost everything. The last thing you want is to be on a vacation with children that are mad because they accidentally spilled ketchup on their shirts and have nothing to change into. Being on the road with kids makes having extra diapers, wipes, toys, shoes, and clothes a necessity.
Speaking of wipes, even if your child is out of diapers, try to keep some wipes on hand. From simple spills on up, these wipes can be a godsend for those of any age with sticky or dirty hands.

If your child takes any kind of medicine, don’t forget to bring it along! Raising children is hectic enough, the last thing you need is to spend a hunk of it panicked and on the phone with your child’s pediatrician, or trying to find one that is in the area you are in.

Keep your kids entertained. The last thing you want on a vacation is to have your kids be bored. Not only will they make everyone else’s time worse with their whining, they are more likely to get into trouble or misbehave if they are bored. Make sure to bring plenty of books, games, crayons, and pencils. Electronic devices can be a good way to entertain your kids, but you don’t want them spending too much time looking a screen.

Lastly, talk to your child and see if there is anywhere they would like to go on the trip. Having an end goal in sight can work wonders to keep you child engaged in what’s going on around them. No child looks back fondly on the vacations where they were dragged to the places their parents wanted to go. Involve your kids in planning and they will be more engaged in the destinations and activities you choose!

Now get planning and go enjoy an unforgettable family adventure even you kids will love!