Have you been dreaming of taking a vacation, but don’t have anyone to look after your child while you are away, or you are waiting until they are older? Does the idea of hopping on a plane to an international destination alone with your child petrify you? Maybe the idea never crossed your mind because it seems far-fetched.
The concept can be daunting, but with some planning, it can result in the most wonderful memories and educational experiences for your children.
Why take children on vacation?
Travelling is a wonderful way to immerse your child in a new culture! Going to other countries is an opportunity to expand your child’s worldview and help them appreciate other cultures’ customs and traditions. It’s a chance to spend uninterrupted, valuable time together. Away from work and school issues, you can be your best selves and build amazing memories that last a lifetime. Nothing boosts a child’s self-esteem like mastering something new. For example, let them print the boarding passes at the airport and help navigate to the boarding gate. They will feel empowered!
Overcoming obstacles
If something is holding you back from taking a trip with your children, the first step is to identify what is creating doubt or worry. Next, it’s time to play devil’s advocate! What is the flip side to each argument?
Here are some brief examples to get you going:
• Worried about your child’s health: If I purchase travel health insurance, bring all the medications and wellness aids we might need, and know where the nearest first aid station or hospital is, I’ll be completely prepared! But chances are, nothing bad will happen anyway.
• Concerned about safety: If I choose a location that is known to be safe for families and I make good decisions, like sticking to high-traffic areas after dark, it is highly unlikely we will feel unsafe.
• Fear of the unknown: If I always avoid the unknown, I’ll be teaching my child that trying new things is bad, and they won’t learn how to take calculated risks.
• Concerned about sanity: If I pack activities to keep my child entertained and choose a location that has fun things for each family member, we will have an amazing time!
• Anxious about money: If I look at my budget closely, I will find unnecessary expenses to cut out so that I can save up for a trip.
Destination Considerations
1. Pre-planning is crucial as it sets you up for success. Choose a city that is relatively safe, where your language is widely spoken (unless you want to learn essential phrases related to transportation, accommodation, food, money, health, safety, etc).
2. Choose an area that has a wide range of activities that you and your child will enjoy. Don’t automatically discount your dreams of going somewhere exotic, as many regions have areas that are family oriented.
3. If research and organizing aren’t your cup of tea (because let’s face it, it’s time-consuming), consider an all-inclusive resort or a cruise. Both choices have family friendly options.
Pro Tips
• Bring enough snacks for every leg of the trip
• Enforce bathroom breaks before a long ride.
• If you’re taking your child out of school, email the teachers a couple weeks in advance and ask if there are any projects/assignments they want your child to complete while away.
• Engage with the hotel staff you see daily—the friendly ones can turn a good trip into a great one.
• Bring earplugs or noise canceling headphones just in case.
• Pack extra set of clothes for each person in carry-on luggage.
• Bring a nightlight.
• Rent car seats and strollers at the destination (research before you go).
• Carry a stuffed animal or comfort item.
• Bring anti-bacterial wipes to clean the plane’s food tray, seat belt buckle, etc and high-touch zones in the accommodation.
• Amp up the fun with floaties and pool toys; portable speaker for your playlist; your own drink tumblers; a sign for your room’s door if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Pre-planning seems like a lot, but I guarantee that won’t be what you remember. You’ll have such an amazing adventure that you’ll be motivated to plan the next trip as soon as you return!
