Whether you plan to travel to some near or far-off destination or you're just planning a few local day trips, you'll need tips for making your family summer vacation a success. Our very own Eirene Heidelberger, founder of GIT Mom, joined us at #30SecondMom chat and shared some great travel tips! Eirene is not only a certified parent coach, she's also a seasoned family traveler who explores the world with three boys in tow.
Q: What are tips for planning a successful family vacation?
- Be realistic about your travel style. Do you prefer to explore or relax? Do you like to see a lot of highlights at a whirlwind pace or explore fewer longer?
- What are the ages and dispositions of your children? Hawaii may not be worth it when you have a 1-year-old.
- Create an itinerary keeping in mind less is more – too high expectations will cause disappointment.
- Research and plan as much in advance as your schedule allows, sightseeing, events and dining to make sure your itinerary will allow you to fit it all in.
@30secondmom @GIT_mom NOT READY YET......TIP: Make sure your vehicle is checked out & maintained before a road trip! #30SecondMom
— Toni B (@rychepet) July 7, 2016
Q: How do you budget for your family vacations?
- Feeling at peace with the budget will maximize your travel experience because you’ll feel in control when you’re spending a lot of money in a short amount of time.
- Plan out your transportation mode, lodging, food and excursions.
- Book flights on Tuesdays and at least 50 days prior to departure. Also, Fridays are a more expensive day to fly.
- Vacation during the week when hotel rates are cheaper and there are less crowds equating less stress.
- Don’t get too caught up and stressed by the budget because often the best laid plans go awry.
@GIT_mom TIP: staying at a hotel in a city downtown? see if there are parking fees! those can be a surprise & add up fast #30SecondMom
— Toni B (@rychepet) July 7, 2016
Q: How can you pack without over doing it?
- A week prior lay out everything you want to pack, choosing one color scheme per each family member then edit what you really need to take.
- Pack a few basic bottoms that match several tops then add fun accessories like scarves and hats to create fashionable looks.
- Use Ziplock bags to contain each child’s outfit and label with their name to make dressing on vacation hassle free.
- Keep one list of last-minute items that need to be packed in the suitcase on travel day.
@30secondmom @GIT_mom A3 Invest in small travel containers so you don't have to take full size toiletries #30SecondMom
— Toni B (@rychepet) July 7, 2016
Q: Heading out on a road trip? Let’s talk simple engagement tips for kids and tricky teenagers.
- Involve the kids in the planning! This gets them excited and teaches responsibility for creating family memories. Plus the more buy in the less complaining.
- Kids love reading maps and charting the driving course. Get them thinking this summer!
- Kids can use yelp to research restaurants and interactive stops to rest and re-group.
- Pack age-appropriate activities to keep each child busy. For toddlers buy $1 items from discount stores and introduce a new one every 30 minutes.
- Do not forget the essentials: games, videos, snacks, drinks and car chargers.
@7Reisen @30secondmom @AyanaRoseMFT peacefully resting makes for a smooth road trip #30SecondMom pic.twitter.com/2Kbilo3tTP
— Amber Chandler (@Chandlermom221) July 7, 2016
@30secondmom @GIT_mom A4 For older kids....highlight a ROAD ATLAS....let them follow along....no more "Are we there yet?" #30SecondMom
— Toni B (@rychepet) July 7, 2016
Q: It’s time to go on vacation, now what?
- Pick the most rested and calm parent to be in charge of directing the family so kids receive one set of instructions throughout the day.
- On travel day always call the hotel front desk directly to request an early check-in.
- Be a proactive parent and communicate clear travel instructions to your kids so they understand what the day consists of and your expectations of them.
- Upon arrival unpack and make the kids feel comfortable with their sleeping arrangements.
- Have your first meal already pre-planned, traveling is tiring and creates hungry, short fuses.
@GIT_mom We love using the Food Network channel & use the Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives to find a restaurant too #30SecondMom
— Toni B (@rychepet) July 7, 2016
Q: Don’t forget about Mom and Dad! What can parents do to get a break on vacation?
- Get a sitter for an afternoon or night and try something new and unique. Experiences boost happiness and create bonding.
- Plan a last hurrah, adult-only fancy dinner your last night that you’ll always remember as a couple.
- Take turns parenting and give each other a morning off to be alone and focus on yourself.
- Create clear bedtime boundaries for the kids and designate a reasonable time for everyone to start their day together.
We are trending! Way to go tribe! #30SecondMom
— GIT Mom (@GIT_mom) July 7, 2016
@j_mostrom @30secondmom @GIT_mom wahoooo!! We is a rocking! Go us!! Go us!! #30SecondMom pic.twitter.com/YZJp01hTsj
— One proud mama❤️ (@7Reisen) July 7, 2016
Be sure to follow @GIT_mom, like her on Facebook, visit her 30Second Mom page and read her tips below!