ultimate guide <\/a>to ensure a fun vacation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n14. Plan your meals.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Planning meals is an easy way to save money while you\u2019re traveling. This will also make your travel a breeze; a happy tummy means a happy journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re looking to save some money, we recommend brown-bagging your meals. Make sandwiches or pasta for the road or flight and take them along so you won’t have to splurge on expensive or unhealthy food on the way. Trail mixes and salads are healthier snacking options when compared to fast food joints on the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Young kids might get upset tummies if they eat too much greasy food on the way, so have some healthy snacks at the ready. Pack some granola, dry fruit, healthy (or homemade!) candy, and crackers to munch on while you\u2019re on vacation. This way, you\u2019ll be able to reduce some cravings and eat healthy too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
15. Get a first aid kit.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While traveling with children, having a first aid kit is very important. Such family travel tips are a must. Your kit must include first-aid staples like band-aids, gauze, and antiseptic. In addition, you can also add wet wipes, sanitizer, and a toilet kit. This will help you stay clean, safe, and healthy during your journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In case anyone in the family is on medication, carry spares in your kit and make a list of the medication. This will be useful during medical emergencies and can literally<\/em> be a lifesaver!<\/p>\n\n\n\nYou might also want to carry bug repellent and sunscreen depending on your location. Raincoats, hats, and umbrellas should be staples, especially if you\u2019re RVing and can afford the extra space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
16. Bring a water bottle.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Carrying reusable water bottles with you is not only a sustainable choice but will make travel much easier. Disposable water bottles may be cheap by the bottle but the cost adds up if you have more family members. Give each family member a bottle for themselves; this way, you\u2019ll teach your kids to be responsible and stay hydrated. Reusable water bottles are recommended if you\u2019re traveling to popular tourist destinations that have a reliable water supply. You can refill at your hotel or a restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re traveling to off-beat destinations, consider getting a water bottle with a filter. This will help keep dirt and bacteria at bay. Here, you might have to opt for pre-filtered bottled water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Set regular water bottle breaks and make sure the entire family stays hydrated; children may forget to drink water if they\u2019re excited and distracted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
17. Check your phone plan.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another way to make traveling a breeze is to keep your phone plan updated. Before you leave, check the phone plan rates that your carrier offers. Often, you might find that local carriers offer better rates. In this case, get a phone plan that offers great internet services so you can place calls over the internet. In addition, send your new vacation phone number to your emergency contacts so that they\u2019ll be able to reach you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re planning a long vacation, consider investing in a mobile router so that you can connect your laptops and tablets to a hotspot. This way, you\u2019ll get uninterrupted internet in case you want to work on the move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
18. Be sustainable.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Travelling is all about making memories and having fun. But they present many learning moments for the entire family. One such moment is to learn how to travel sustainably.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, teach your children to clean up after they\u2019ve had their meals outdoors. Do not litter; pick up the trash and dispose of it responsibly so that you leave the area exactly like it was before you came. This applies particularly during visits to national parks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, indulge in sustainable events like clean-ups; many vacation spots organize clean-up walks and free kayak rides. This way, you\u2019ll get a complimentary guided tour or kayak ride while doing something responsible for the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Packing responsibly for your trip also reduces the chance of unnecessary waste. If you pack reusable bags, you won\u2019t need to purchase extra plastic bags. If you bring comfortable shoes and clothes, you won\u2019t need to buy off-brand vacation clothes that may not be too durable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
19. Leave room for souvenirs.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While packing for your trip, make sure to leave room in your suitcases for some souvenirs. Often, filling your suitcase up with things may mean that you have to buy a separate bag or pay extra for souvenirs on your way back. This can be avoided by some proactive planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before you leave, share a tentative souvenir budget and storage plan and share this with your children. By keeping them in the loop, you\u2019ll likely avoid meltdowns while on vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n