Travel with Kids(Pod): 7 Tips for Helping Your Kids Get the Most Out of Your Trip
Traveling with kids can be an adventure in itself. From planning to execution, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey requires extra effort. Here are some of our best tips to help you maximize your family's travel experiences. So buckle up, parents, and let's dive into the world of family adventures!
Involve Them in Planning: Engage your kids in the travel planning process. Letting them help in the decision-making process gets their buy-in (and fewer complaints during the trip). Who isn’t more excited about an activity when they get to plan it themselves?
Even hearing from someone other than you about how awesome the destination/activity is can increase their engagement (aka decrease whining). Use books, podcasts, and YouTube videos to give them a glimpse of your destination.
The KidsPod app's search page is a goldmine for finding informative and entertaining podcasts - for example, search “Yellowstone,” “Statue of Liberty,” or “camping.” (Hot Tip: You can even procrastinate this part – I usually find an episode on the way to wherever we’re going!)
Comfort Is Key: Happy kids make for smooth travels. Ensure they are comfortable by paying attention to their clothing, shoes, and hunger levels. Pack their favorite snacks and make sure they're well-fed and hydrated throughout the journey.
Banish Boredom: Travel and sightseeing can be tedious even for adults, but fear not! Pack some fidget toys or activities to keep your kids engaged during those moments, like hiking, sightseeing in a big city, or waiting in line at an amusement park. Whether it's a pop-it, a Hot Wheels car, a LEGO minifigure, a book, or a journal, these little distractions can work wonders. (My kids will walk waaaaay farther while holding a fidget toy. Seriously.)
And whenever you’re tempted to hand over the phone or tablet, don't forget you can turn on KidsPod or music to make waiting or walking more enjoyable – WITHOUT having their eyeballs glued to the screen. Imagine not having to remind them to look out the window!
Embrace Kid-Friendly Adventures: Plan at least one kid-friendly activity per day. Slow down the pace, stop at a playground, go for a swim, and let the kids play and burn off some energy. Remember, a happy child equals happy parents.
Discover Kid-Centric Tours and Activities: Many museums, national parks, and major cities now offer tours and activities designed specifically for kids. These can be self-guided or booked in advance, and some are even free! Audio guides at museums and attractions are ALWAYS worth the extra few dollars and let your kids feel independent and in control of their visit.
Offer Motivation: Sometimes a little bribery motivation goes a long way. Find what inspires your kids and use it to your advantage. For instance, one child might be motivated by tracking their steps on a kids' fitness watch, while another might be willing to do anything for a souvenir. I always have a handful of lollipops or gummy bears to use as rewards. (Lollipops also make AMAZING “big kid pacifiers,” especially long-lasting ones like Chupa Chups Whatever it is, incentives keep the momentum going!
Embrace Flexibility: While a well-planned itinerary can help you make the most of your day, remember to be flexible. Kids' energy levels change, and forcing a rigid schedule can dampen everyone's spirits. Plan flexible blocks of time and activities that can be rearranged as needed, and be humble enough to know when to call it. Remember, watching a movie in the hotel room is also a positive memory for your child simply because you’re together! Adaptability is the key to a happy family vacation.
Traveling with kids doesn't have to be daunting. By involving your children in the planning process, ensuring their comfort, providing entertainment, seeking out kid-friendly activities, offering motivation, and embracing flexibility, you'll create unforgettable family experiences. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a journey filled with laughter, adventure, and cherished memories!
Remember, the world is your playground—enjoy every step of the way with your little explorers!
Find KidsPod in the app stores today!
Change the way your children interact with audio!
