Hi everyone! If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that my family and I have been off traveling for the past ten days. We love to travel and try to take at least two trips a year. Over the past years I’ve learned a thing or two about traveling with kids and I thought I would share a few of those tips with you.
1. Be prepared. Each of the kids had their own carry on which I packed with great thought. I made sure to include the necessary items: a fleece, small pouch of wipes, a few snacks, a baggie for trash, sunglasses and a hat. I also packed a few fun items like a new coloring book, crayons (not markers, too messy), a book to read for my older ones, one or two small toys (a lego guy, a car) and stickers. We don’t watch much tv in our house, but when we travel it’s a special treat. Our iPad was prepped ahead of time with a couple educational apps and shows. In my carry on I made sure to bring wipes, sunscreen and extra snacks. I also got creative and wore an old aden + anais swaddling blanket as a scarf, which I then used to cover Jess while she napped on the plane. Thinking outside of the box can be so helpful.
2. Pack light. Let me say this again, pack light! Especially when you are traveling with a family of five. The last thing you want to do is be loaded down with extra articles of clothing that you don’t need. I packed versatile clothes that could be mixed and matched and kept it simple. One pair of shorts, one pair of pants. A couple short sleeve tops and a bathing suit. You can always wash clothes if necessary. For myself, I wore my hat on the plane and made sure to pack only two pairs of shoes, one comfy casual and my running shoes.
3. Use a baby carrier for smaller children. This is so essential. It makes life that much easier. Jess is moving past the stroller days, but she is still small enough to carry in a baby wrap. While walking around the airport she was happy and content on my back, freeing up both of my hands so I could focus on the boys. The carrier also came in handy while we trekked around the island and made our way to the beaches.
4. It’s okay to let go of the schedule and routine. At home, we thrive on our daily schedules and routines, but when we are away I tend to toss those theories out the door. And you know what, after several trips, I’ve found out that it’s okay. We stay up a little later, we nap while in the car, the baby carrier or the stroller and we eat snacks on the go. Sometimes when you travel it’s hard to stay on schedule, but if you have patience and an open mind you’ll be just fine.
5. Have fun. In my mind, it’s so important to get away as a family. Enjoy the time together, cherish every moment and embrace your surroundings!
Hope you find these tips helpful! Do you have any to add or share?
Liz // Yellow Finch
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