We hear you: You want to build incredible memories and show your kids how diverse the world is. You know traveling abroad is a great way to open your child’s mind and you long for those amazing experiences that come across your Facebook and Instagram feeds. And yet the prospect of traveling in a distant country with in a foreign language and with different customs is daunting. Not to mention, there’s an overwhelming amount of information out there.
We get it. As parents, we all have the same aspirations and concerns. But travel can be challenging, especially international travel with kids. Here are a few tips to make traveling abroad with kids easier.
Start at home.
Exposure to different cultures starts at home: Get a map or a globe, cook international recipes, read plenty of books about the world and talk about other customs and cultures. This will surely foster your children’s curiosity and get them excited for new far-away adventures.
Pick the right destination for your family.
No two families are alike. Choosing the right vacation based on your family’s interests is the first step to a great experience. If you’re art lovers who love urban places, choose Paris over Costa Rica. Likewise, if you long for adventure and off-the-beaten-path experiences, you probably won’t get what you want out of a beach resort. Your child’s age is also a key factor. There’s often a sweet spot for certain destinations.
Travel can teach kids about the world.
Check passports, visa and immunizations requirements.
Get your passports and check visa and immunization requirements well before your departure date. Ensure that your passport — as well as your children’s — is valid for six months beyond your travel dates. Take an extra step: Scan your passports and kids’ birth certificates, then upload them to a Dropbox or Google drive, so they’re available offline.
Pack smart.
When in doubt, leave it home. In this day and age, you can find virtually anything, anywhere, so just bring the essentials. Sure, brands are different in other countries, but unless your child is allergic or has special needs, that’s part of the travel experience, right?
Prepare for long flights.
Long flights are likely the most dreaded moment of a trip abroad, but this should not keep you away from taking an international vacation. Bring a favorite toy, healthy snacks and a good dose of patience and calm. There are plenty of tips for flying with kids out there, but remember: The right mindset goes a long way. Equally important: Bring an extra set of clothes in your carry-on for everyone.
Get enough sleep and food.
This is essential for both the kids and the parents. Get as much fresh air as possible that first day. Go on a walk, visit a park or discover a fun playground. If you’re arriving somewhere after an overnight flight, stay up all day, eat well and get to bed at your normal time to have a restful night. Hunger will strike at odd times, so remember to have plenty of healthful snacks at hand.
Reach out to your village.
Friends are the best resource for advice and support. And social media has made the world even smaller. Check out groups where you can get advice from parents like you. We like Travel with Kids – #WeCollectMemories community, Nugget and Bebe Voyage.
Consider a group departure.
Small group departures are a terrific way to make the most of your family trip. You get knowledgeable guides, local and authentic experiences and peace of mind. The best part? The added bonus of traveling with other like-minded families means instant playmates for the kids and some free time for the adults.
Patty Monahan is the founder of Our Whole Village, a travel company that connects families with local and authentic experiences that give back. For more on traveling with kids, check out www.ourwholevillage.com.