Soon we will inaugurate the season of the most desired holidays: summer! With it you want to be more on the street, on the beach, make plans with the family, go to bed later, ... The sun makes us more away from home, more dark and in a better mood. But when there are children at home, holidays can be a little different to when there wasn't. That is why we leave you some tips to plan a happy family vacation.
We all like to plan vacations. They are days of relaxation, rest, seeing new places, disconnecting from the routine, airing out and connecting with yours. When there are children or babies (or both) you have to see things more, and planning can take more time. With our advice we will help you have a happy family vacation.
Choose destination
First important decision. Children can contribute their opinion, it is important that they feel that their assessment is important even if the final decision is made by the parents. They will feel involved in the family and in decision making. The ideal is to choose a destination that everyone likes, so that everyone is happy. Factors such as the age of the children, the economy and the climate, are important in choosing a destination.
Take a look at the programs that are available to provide entertainment for the whole family. Once you have chosen a destination, you can teach your child pictures of the place, help him point it out on a map, show him their customs ...
Organized or free trip?
It depends. The good thing about organized trips is that you forget everything. You have the pack organized and you just have to pack your bags. In addition, it tends to coincide with more families who have chosen the same vacation package, the children have more children to play with and the older ones also create friendships. It also has the advantage that you can organize activities in advance before the trip.
And you are from the families that you like to improvise, the best thing is to go it alone. Each day what will be done the next day is planned depending on the weather, level of fatigue, places to see ... It is also usually more economical if they take advantage of last minute offers.
Documentation
Depending on the chosen destination, inform yourself well of all the documentation you will need and the time necessary to request it. Since 2012 for a less to fly you need a DNI or passport. If you are divorced or separated, in addition to the family book, you will need the consent of your ex-partner and the divorce decree, if any, to enter some countries. Get it ready as soon as possible to avoid worry.
Accommodation
With children the choice of accommodation changes a lot. The ideal is a family hotel, preferably with a swimming pool, and activities for children. It will be a success if you have a kitchen, since you will save a lot of money when it comes to eating out.
If you have a baby, contact the accommodation so that they can have a cot ready for you.
Pack up
Suitcases with children are multiplying. In addition to their food if they do not breastfeed, there is their changing table with diapers, creams, changes, toys, pacifiers, clothes, ... Essential when traveling with children to have a small emergency kit.
If they are older they can help you pack your own suitcase.
Already on the plane
The ideal thing to travel with children is to carry a light, small and comfortable to fold chair. The ones we use on a daily basis are usually heavier, sturdier and less manageable. With the former you will have more mobility and you will be calmer. If you choose the plane as a method of transport, the chairs are not considered normal luggage so you can check them in.
Bring food prepared in case they do not have available on the plane and things to entertain the child during the journey such as a toy, coloring book or reading ... Don't forget to check the restrictions for carry-on bags.
Why remember ... The ideal is to have fun with the family and create a bond.