Going on a trip with your child can be a stressful endeavor. Remember to sit down in peace and plan everything, preferably on a piece of paper. Make sure you have all the things you need with you, visualize possible obstacles you may encounter during your trip and try to prepare for some eventualities.
Many people tend to pack everything the kids use at home. This is not a very good idea, because at the end of the day, you will definitely be carrying one child in your arms, and then you will also have to think about dragging all your luggage behind you
Try to pack as little as possible. Traveling alone will disrupt your daily routines, so trying to preserve them by taking all the things you have on hand at home won’t work anyway. It can only add to your nerves… and shoulder pain. If you don’t have something important on hand, you can always buy it, but going on such a short trip, you’ll definitely have everything to take care of your kids.
Introducing and familiarizing children with the trip and its purpose ahead of time is important for those who are going somewhere for the first time. When toddlers feel uncomfortable, they are unhappy and have no use for a weekend trip, especially if there are too many new things going on.
It never hurts to ask about discounts for kids to save some pennies on your trip. You can get discounts on transportation (buses, trains), tour guides, excursions, entrance fees to different attractions, restaurants. You can also look at the offers of different companies online, which will give you a rough budget. If there is no mention, you can always write a short email or make a quick phone call.
You can never rule out the possibility of your child getting lost. It’s a good idea to give him or her contact information for you and other family members on a piece of paper, for example. You should include your name, phone number, e-mail address, home address. You can keep such a note in your pocket or in your shoe. Make sure your child knows where to find the note.
If your children are older, help them remember your phone number, email address, and possibly your home address. Instead of a piece of paper, you can use your phone to write down the information.
Illness or injury can get to any of us. It is always a good idea to take a few over-the-counter medications with you that your family may need during the trip. These may include: pain medications, allergy medications, stomach upset medications, motion sickness medications, and other remedies that will apply to your family or to your specific trip.
If anyone in your family takes prescription medications, don’t forget to bring them with you.
Which is better? Mothers and fathers exchange opinions on the pros and cons of strollers and slings, but the most important thing is that the equipment used is comfortable for you and your baby. When you’re traveling more in the cooler season, a sling will help keep you and your baby warm. Baby strollers will work better in warmer weather
Also, consider the surface area of the place you’re traveling to. Pushing a stroller over bumps or over cobblestones may not be very comfortable. It will perform better on the sidewalk or street.
When you’re traveling with an infant or toddler who can’t yet use the potty, stock up on plenty of wipes and diapers. Even on a short train ride, you may need to change a diaper.
The same goes for extra outfits. If you don’t have enough diapers, your baby is sure to get his clothes dirty. So always have something to change into, and it’s a good idea to carry a plastic bag to store bad-smelling clothes until you can wash them.
Main photo: by Alberto Casetta, source: unsplash.com
