I love going on vacation. It’s the stress of planning and packing for the trip that I dread.
This is especially true if you are the one in charge of prepping the entire family for a getaway. Having to pack for three or four little ones in addition to getting your personal items together can be a real chore. Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce the amount of stress that comes with family vacations.
For starters, regardless of where you are planning to travel, it’s a good idea to create a packing checklist. Include functional clothing that can be mixed and matched. It’s also wise to check the weather for your vacation destination a few days before your departure, so you bring along appropriate outfits. In regards to personal items, stick with the essentials. Missing toiletries can be purchased at your destination. Focus instead on packing all your necessary travel documents. Be sure your ID is current and valid. Also, if you plan to travel out of the country, it is a good idea to take along a certified copy of your birth certificate and other pertinent documents.
Another way to reduce vacation stress is to avoid planning out every minute of your trip. You’re better off making a general schedule with room for flexibility. Pencil out a list of must-see attractions taking note of the hours of operation and price of admission, but be willing to make adjustments if your kids need a nap or decide they would rather swim in the pool rather than take a tour of a local zoo. Young children are especially prone to meltdowns when their regular routines are compromised, so be mindful of time zone differences and your kid’s internal clock when planning daily itineraries.
Finally, before you leave your home, devise a realistic budget that will allow you to stretch your vacation dollar as far as possible. Your family trip will be much more enjoyable if you don’t have to deal with a stack of unexpected bills when it’s over.
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