Summer Travel Tips
If you’re traveling with the kids this summer, check out our tips to help ensure your family vacation is an enjoyable and memorable adventure.
• Build excitement by letting kids mark off the
days on a calendar until your departure date.
If possible, involve them in the planning ahead
of time.
• Buy or borrow travel guides about your
destination and read them with your kids.
• When deciding when to travel, keep your kids’
napping and sleeping schedules in mind. Long
car rides can be ideal for naps.
• Allow for extra travel time in your itinerary. Whether you’re driving or flying,
keep in mind that summertime is peak travel season, so roads and airports
may be crowded.
• Use a packing list to help ensure you bring everything you’ll need, whether
it’s a swimsuit or your child’s favorite stuffed animal.
• Stay flexible!
• Map out your route ahead of time – identify interesting places you can stop
en route to your destination.
• Plan on taking a break about every two hours to let everyone get out of the
car and stretch.
• Pack an insulated cooler with snacks and cold drinks. Frozen juice boxes will
stay cooler longer and will also help keep your other snacks chilled.
• Try playing family games to help pass the time. Download our template >
• Music CDs and books-on-CD are great because they can entertain the whole
family!
• Be sure to allow plenty of time to check in and get through the security line.
• Check your luggage, but be sure to pack extra clothing and supplies in your
carry-on bags in case your luggage is late or lost.
• Bring extra snacks on board to keep your kids from getting hungry.
• Give kids their own carry-on bag filled with fun games, crayons, paper and a
favorite book.
• A portable DVD player may be a great investment if you’re traveling over two
hours. Kids will enjoy the travel time more if they’re able to watch their
favorite movies.