Traveling with the whole family requires a lot of organizational skills and patience. Still, families don’t want to miss out on beautiful moments in the sun and on the beach. From planning and traveling to the stay on site: traveling with children is different. To ensure the vacation doesn’t become a trial, we have put together some useful tips on traveling with kids.
1. The right travel destination – research pays off
Good planning is essential. It starts with choosing a suitable travel destination. This depends especially on the age of the children and individual preferences. While some prefer the beach, other family members don’t want to miss sightseeing. A bit of research is worthwhile. After all, there are many destinations that combine different needs. For babies, it’s advisable not to take too long a flight. For beginners traveling with children, destinations like the Baltic or North Sea are ideal. The Bodensee or Lake Garda are also quickly reachable. They offer the perfect combination of beach vacation, mountains, and some sightseeing.
2. Packing the suitcase – tips & tricks
Traveling with children means a lot of luggage.
Toys, strollers, baby seats & co. require some packing talent. To still have enough fresh clothes, here’s a useful tip: roll instead of fold. This saves a lot of space. But be careful: don’t overstuff the suitcase. On vacation, you often want to treat yourself to one thing or another. Also, mom and dad should not forget about weather changes.
3. The essentials go in the carry-on luggage
An important rule when traveling with children: all essentials go in the carry-on. This includes things like a favorite cuddly toy. If it’s out of reach, whining can quickly start. Also, medicines for nausea, fever, or headache tablets belong in the carry-on. On flights, luggage can sometimes get lost and arrive later. A change of clothes in the carry-on is therefore a good idea. Another tip: pack mixed suitcases. If only one suitcase arrives at the destination, each family member will at least have the essentials.
4. Flying with children
Flying with children is often a big challenge for families. One problem is pressure equalization. Especially for babies, the sinuses are not fully developed, making it hard to equalize pressure. A bottle or pacifier can help prevent ear pain. For toddlers, a chewy candy before takeoff and landing can help. It aids pressure equalization and lifts their mood. The little ones will be happy.
5. Don’t forget travel documents – children need a passport
Of course, important travel documents like booking confirmations, flight tickets, or IDs must not be forgotten. Don’t forget: children also need their own passport. Up to the age of 12, a child’s passport is sufficient. After that, a personal ID card is necessary. For long-distance travel outside the EU, a proper passport is required. Make sure to inform yourself in time to avoid unpleasant surprises when traveling with children.
6. Practical everyday companions: children want entertainment
A few small everyday helpers can make traveling with children easier. It makes sense, for example, to always have some wet wipes ready in the handbag. At the beach, mom and dad also want to relax sometimes. That only works if the little ones are occupied. Our tip: sand toys. The kids can play wonderfully next to the sun lounger and stay busy. The
wooden vehicles from howa are not only great for extensive play in the children’s room but are also perfect for the beach. Loading, building, digging – little builders will be thrilled. Made of solid hardwood with child-safe paint, the vehicles are especially robust and withstand sunny afternoons at the beach.
Image rights: ©iStock / romrodinka
