Traveling with grandkids, nieces and nephews can be a special time to bond and get to know each other. Parents know their children very well. What makes them happy, upset and how to get them back on track when things go downhill.
We’ve all seen it. A grandparent is struggling to keep the grandkids in tow and under control or an aunt who apparently isn’t accustomed to being out and about with the young ones; we have tips to help you have a memorable and enjoyable time together. And, you’ll be ready to take more trips – just you and the little ones.
Pack a carry-on bag with the necessities and check your larger bag to keep hands-free. Photo by famveldman
Carry-on The Necessities
Your carry-on is definitely your friend when flying with kids. Include things to keep them busy, bring along favorite snacks and have an empty water container to add water after you clear TSA. You will want to have plenty of handy wipes because small hands like to touch surfaces where germs live. A carry-on with wheels will help lighten your load and older children can assist by taking turns rolling the bag.
Airport check-in desk. Photo by Tyler Olson
Check it
Are you asking, “Do I want to check your bag?” The answer is yes. Keep your hands as free as possible. Yes, you will have to wait for bags on the other side, but making your way through the airport with free hands will make a much easier trip for yourself and the kids. Load all the necessities in a carry – on bag and check everything else. Remember to pack a change of clothes for the children in your carry-on.
Book early to ensure your seat is with the grandkids. Photo by famveldman.
Seating plans
If you’re booking travel requiring seat assignments make sure you book ahead of time. This will ensure you can have a seat with your grandkids. Hoping for people to switchas you are boarding the airplane is not a plan. It may work because people are nice – but the frustration and probably tears while you’re trying to make it happen is not worth it.
If possible schedule a meals with friends and family at your destination. It is a great way to introduce children to relatives they may not normally meet at home. Photo by Cathy Yeulet
Snacks – Food – Treats and Meals
Plan your stops on road trips for meals, snacks and treats.
Bring along healthy snacks and ones that are not loaded with sugar. A little treat between snacks is a good idea too.
Plan for meals at your destination – Will you eat meal at your hotel, a restaurant or will you plan to cook when staying with friends/family homes. Either way plan ahead and make sure there are kid friend options on the menu. Don’t forget drinks too.
Plan bathroom breaks for everyone on a long road trip. It is also a great time to stretch your legs. Photo by Thanida Nianpradit
Potty Stops
On a road trip… this is important.
Plan for tops and use an app like Gas Buddy for the best and cleanest bathroom spots.
Plan time for play and include activities that will be fun for everyone.
Play Time
Hi, you are traveling wth children! They will want to have time to play. At the beach, in the room. Ask their parents for tips on what’s best for play time. Bring along games, and load up the tablets & iPads with their favorites games, stories and movies.
Have the kids suggests activities for the day. They will be more likely to enjoy and stay focus with things they choose to do.
Involve the children
Center the daily agenda around them. Big museums that are interesting to adults may be too large and uninteresting to kids for the length of time generally spent in a museum.
You can find children museums or go to attractions. Aquariums are a good idea, and so is the zoo and fairs.
Plan a fun activity for yourself and maybe it will spark the interest of the kids too.
Something for you too
Allow for an activity that you like too, but make sure it is something that will keep the kids happy too. For older kids, share with them what you love about the activity. Use it as a time to educate and share interesting things about yourself.
Adult activities can be fun for children too. Having your nails done on a trip is a treat for an adult, an older child may like the experience too. Ask the parents before you have nails painted or hair style changes. Fshing with the boys can be fun for everyone.
Capture the moments that will create lifelong memories.
Make & keep memories
Social media – yes or no? Create a FaceBook page just for you and family; only family memgers and friends will have access to the page.
It’s everyone’s vacation, make sure to stay fueled and energized and of course involved.
Don’t overdo – give everyone a little space
Plan a shorter trip, especially for your first trip. The ideal length of time is 7 days.
And, don’t be too ambitious with your activities. Plan down time for the kids to be kids – based on most children today that means electronics
Plan to give everyone a little extra space, it may costs more to go for larger size rooms, but it’s worth it in the end. A vacation rental is a way to have more space and keep the family in one spot. .
Make sure parents are fully onboard with you taking a solo trip with the kids. And, make sure you think it through too. It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also a way to create lifelong memories.
What tips do you have for traveling with grandkids, neices and nephews?
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