Whether traveling by plane, train or automobile, come prepared with tips and tools to help you avoid travel hassles.
Travel time
Try to schedule your travel during a time that is easiest for you and your family. If you have young kids, a long trip is sure to be riddled with potty stops, snack breaks and about 500 inquiries of “Are we there yet?”
If your kids sleep well in the car, head out just before their bedtime so the car ride will lull them to sleep — ensuring a quiet ride for you and your hubby and fewer stops.
If traveling via plane or train, schedule your travel for a time after your children are napped and fed so they are in good spirits — and bring lots of entertainment.
Before you get ready for a road trip, take your car for a checkup, get an oil change and fill your tank. And don’t leave home without important documentation like your driver’s license, bank cards, airline tickets and confirmation numbers for hotel reservations.
Know before you go
Before heading out on a trip, research the area where you are going to ensure you pack appropriately and you know the route to get there. Make any arrangements such as hotel accommodations or rental car in advance so everything is ready for your arrival and you can rest easy en route to your destination.
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Mark your luggage
Nearly all black suitcases look alike as they are coming off the luggage carousel when you’re really ready to grab your bag and get out of there. Distinguish your bag from the sea of luggage with a brightly colored tie or patch.
Be prepared
Before heading to the airport for a big flight, check the status of your flight to ensure it hasn’t been delayed or canceled. Look up the latest TSA requirements to make sure you won’t get stopped at airline security for bringing something illegal in your carry-on bag. Allow at least an hour to an hour and a half to get through airport security and to your designated gate.
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Travel entertainment
Traveling can be boring for even the most patient of adults, so think about how it feels for a child. Take this into consideration when you’re packing a carry-on or travel bag and fill it up with lots of fun things for kids to do, like magnet tic-tac-toe and other travel games, coloring books, kid-friendly electronic games, and your tablet or smartphone fully charged and loaded with age-appropriate apps. Don’t forget snacks, water bottles and a roll of paper towels for the inevitable spills.
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