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5 Tips for Keeping Your Sanity on a Family Vacation



As summer is winding down, I’ve been reflecting on the things we did this summer as a family. We did the outdoorsy things, swimming, lots of hiking, visiting new parks, fishing, and sweaty afternoon walks through the neighborhood. We also had a lot of indoor time too. There’s no shame in my kid’s screen time game. Every year we make many memories in the small moments, but those vacations are what stand out the most. To every parent debating on whether or not to take that trip with the kids, do it! (If you get a chance to take a kid-free vacation, do that too!) But first, read these tips for keeping your cool on your next family trip.


1. Call it a family trip. Close your eyes and tell me what you think of when you hear the word vacation. I know for me personally, I think of cocktails on the beach all-inclusive style. But that’s not the case when I have my 2 and 6 year-olds running around. When we were about to leave for our 9-day Oregon coast trip this summer, I felt slightly nervous that it was going to be too overwhelming. Changing the wording, changed my perspective and expectations. It wasn’t about me relaxing, it was about making memories with my sweet boys. And taking lots of pictures in case they don’t remember it later 😉


2. You already knew I was going to say this, but snacks! Snacks on the plane, in the car, for the long waits at restaurants, etc. etc. The key is to plan ahead if you can. Taking a long road trip? Make sure those snacks are within arms reach. On the plane? Make sure they are in the personal item by your feet for easy access. Pro tip: be sure to pack snacks you normally encourage your kids to eat; get in as much nutrition as possible. My kids don’t eat well-rounded meals when we travel so I sneak it in snacks when I can. Sneaky sneaky! Whenever we get to our destination, we stop at the local grocery store and let kids help us pick out what they want for the rest of the trip.


3. Talk to your kids. Tired and out-of-routine kids can make for a fun, long trip in the car. Sense my sarcasm? This summer, we were on a long drive during the youngest’s nap time. He was crabby and nothing was appeasing him. I looked back at him and said, “you can take a nap if you want to baby.” Well friends, I didn’t expect that to work so easily but uhhh it did… like a charm. My 6-year-old on the other hand, asks a million questions about where we are on the map, how long til we get there, what’s it gunna be like, etc. etc. For him, we answer questions minimally, just to give him the information he needs, but we encourage him to just enjoy the ride. Each kid is different, but don’t forget to include your kids in the plan and remind them of their “job” (i.e. take a nap, enjoy the ride, eat the snacks, color, etc.).


4. Pack accordingly. I know this sounds like a well-duh, but let me explain. Every other blog I’ve read about kids and vacations says, “don’t over pack.” Ummm excuse me, I most certainly will overpack because my kids have stuffed animals, clothes, sound machines, toys, baby monitors, diapers, Legos, books, and snacks that they NEED. Not to sound too dramatic here, but they need it because that’s what keeps them comfortable. And momma, if the kids are comfortable, you may actually get that drink on the beach after all. So, I’m not actually saying to OVER pack, but I am saying pack the extra baby carrier even if he doesn’t usually go in it, because man you’ll kick yourself if you wished you had it.


5. BE FLEXIBLE. This is in all caps because this was my biggest drawback. When I schedule a vacation, ahem, family trip, I want the most out of it. It’s probably my own issue but I put a lot of pressure on myself and husband to take full advantage of the trip. I want to see as much as we can and go, go, go. However, that’s not what the kids need. Sometimes you have to buy the tickets and make the reservations, and that can work out great. But keep in mind that kid’s batteries typically run out a little more quickly on vacation because they are out of their element and have a lack of a routine. When you go with the flow, you teach your kids that plans can change and it is ok. Furthermore, a nap for mom isn’t the worst thing in the world. If you have to skip something you were looking forward to, it’s ok if you’re bummed out. But remind yourself of tip #1, it’s not just a vacation, it’s a family trip to make memories.


I hope you find these tips helpful and practical. My aim is to always be real and down to earth with my readers. Which tip did you like the most? What might you add to this list? Please let me know!

 
 
 

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© 2023 by Ginny Kappel

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