The sun is finally out, you guys, and that means it's vacation time! We actually have a couple trips coming up. At the end of the month we'll be heading to the beach for a weekend, and mid-June we will be taking a road trip to Michigan (yes, all four of us!) for my little brother's wedding. So, when Kendra Thornton, travel expert extraordinaire, contacted me, I was more than happy to let her share some family friendly travel tips with all of us! Here are Kendra's tips. Thanks for guesting, lovely lady!
Top Tips for Traveling with Children
Summer is steadily approaching and the hustle and bustle of the school year will come to a much needed summer break. For most families, this is the perfect opportunity to schedule some quality time with a family vacation. Taking time to plan for a summer vacation is crucial to ensure you’ll have fun later. Here are five must-know travel tips that can help when preparing for and enjoying this year's family vacation.
What to pack
Packing in layers can be a time saver for everyone on a family vacation. When traveling to a warm destination, the top layer of each suitcase should include swimsuits, to ensure the family can bolt for the pool upon arrival. This is a perfect way to occupy time when the room is not yet available for check in. Oftentimes, hotels will have the rooms ready for check-in after 3pm, which allows for some poolside fun while you wait.
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| Pool gear: check! |
Choose toys wisely
If you are traveling with toddlers, it is important to pack toys for the duration of the trip. They will need multiple choices that can fit easily into carry on baggage and that are amenable to air and car travel. Technological devices that can serve many purposes such as an iPad can be a wise choice. iPads can really be a great traveling companion for all ages as they allow for surfing the web, reading books, watching movies and streaming television shows. There are also a host of educational apps you can download to ensure your children are still learning throughout the summer.
Research your retreat
Your accommodations for vacation can really make or break a trip. Everything from hotel room service to kid-friendly amenities are key features to consider before picking your palace. Doing your research before booking a place will not only cut down on issues that could arise during your trip but also reduce your pre-vacation stress. Knowing your family has a safe place to rest their heads after a long day is key to a wonderful trip. The best part? If you have access to a computer, this step is free! Use the Internet to read reviews and forums on the best places to stay in your destination city. While planning a family trip to Oahu, I was able to read reviews for the best family friend hotels in Honolulu to determine which one met our needs best. The Internet is also the best place to find insider information, such as the best restaurants in the area or the best time to book.
Baggage claim
Choosing luggage that is easily distinguishable from others can be a good way to spot luggage quickly on a conveyor belt at the airport. This can also deter thieves from walking away with your luggage unnoticed. If you are one of the many millions of travelers with a black suitcase this summer, it can be easy to tie a neon ribbon around the handle to make for easy identification. If you have already had the dreaded experienced of losing luggage, you may want something with more security. GoCodes offers GPS enabled luggage tags that allow you to reconnect with your luggage in the unfortunate event that it gets lost.
Vet your jet
Deciding which airline to use can be tricky with so much to consider: price, layovers, reliability, baggage fees. When deciding on an airline, do your research. Many airlines that appear cheaper at first glance, may in fact have hidden fees which hike up the price at checkout. Look into deals and members options as these can help save. Many credit cards can accumulate air miles or be shown upon check-in to receive free upgrades! Using the mobile check in features that many airlines offer can save time at the airport and allow more time to relax. With kids, any extra time getting to the gate will be beneficial.
Kendra Thornton: Travel advocate, TV spokesperson, PR businesswoman, proud wife and mama of 3. I am a long time travel expert who has been packing my bags and traveling the world since I was 3 months old! I've found my utmost desire in life is right here in my own home. I have taken my excitement for travel and brought it to you with some of my favorite travel tips and tricks. Enjoy!
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