10 tips for vacationing with kids

“This post is sponsored by Carter’s; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.”

Spring is coming and that means our family traveling begins.  I love warm weather.  I love weekend trips.  I love the flowers blooming and heading on an adventure with my hubby and kiddos.

Making memories with our kids through day trips or full out vacations has always been a priority to us.  As a mom of 3 boys, I have learned some tips I want to share. They simplify my life and take away some of the stress associated with taking a trip with kids.

1.  Travel when they are sleepy.

Whether it’s a car trip or getting on a plane.  I try to travel during nap or bedtimes.  The goal is to get a few travel hours in while they are sleeping. This means…less need for entertainment and more peace & quiet.

2.  Bring food..then bring some more.

Seriously, bring all the snacks and drinks because, traveling, somehow, makes kids hungry and thirsty NON-STOP.  Be overly prepared with goodies for the trip.

3.  Bring their favorites.

I bring my kid’s favorite gaming system, toy, snack or book.  I have a bag I fill with their favorites to have on hand for the trip.  This is like gold while we are traveling.

4.  Go to the dollar store.

Finding a new coloring book or cheap toy you can whip out when things get rough is always helpful.

5.  Pack for every possible situation.

We have been on trips and needed to run to the store because we thought it was going to be warmer or colder than we ha planned.  My older boys are simple because they can just grab a hoodie to go over any outfit. However, as many of us mom’s know, bringing enough types of outfits for a toddler or baby is so important.

I always bring a super cute outfit along for a nice dinner out as a family.  Carters has everything from fancy dresses to button down oxfords for your child to look their best.

I also bring a casual play outfit along that will fit any plans we have that day.

I always pack a long sleeve casual shirt that can go with any pair of shorts or pants.

Lastly, I make sure that I have a casual, warm and comfy outfit to play around in.

Carters has the cutest clothes that keep my child always looking picture worthy.  Their selection is perfect for dressing your child in the cutest spring fashions.

Whether it’s their easy outfit sets, a cute romper, or some of their super soft knits, your child will be ready for any activity you choose to do.

6.  Give yourself extra time.

Whenever we have a specific time to be somewhere we give ourselves a few hours of wiggle room. It may seem like a lot, but with road trips, it takes off a lot of pressure.  We can take more breaks and let the kids stretch their legs and run around a bit.  It makes the trip more enjoyable for everyone.

7.  Bring bedtime prep.

Whether your child sleeps with a favorite blanket, stuffed animal or sound machine. Bring everything that will make the place you are staying as similar to home as possible. This will save you a lot of sleepless nights adjusting to a new place.

8.  First Aid is a must.

I have bought so many bottles of pain reliever and first aid supplies for myself and kids while on vacation, when I actually had it all at home.  Bring all of those solutions for any “possible” situations and you will save a lot of time and money. You will be fully prepared for anything that may come your way.

9.  Bring outdoor toys.

We have thrown a few balls in the car to have something fun for the kids to do on days we don’t have activities planned.  Also, if you are taking a road trip this is perfect to create some family fun at rest stops.

10.  Research.

I make a list, a few weeks before we leave, of all the family friendly activities we can do.  I research family friendly restaurants that have a fun play area included.  When we get to our destination, there is no need to spend a bunch of time on Google trying to figure out what we are going to do that day because, I already have a “go-to” list.

I hope this list helps make the next time you travel with children much easier.

Be sure to head to Carters to stock up on everyday essentials, including colorful soft polos, cool tees, and knit shorts.  If you’re heading to the beach or pool with the little ones, don’t forget to grab some swimsuits, rash guards and trunks that all include UPF 50+.  They are my absolute favorite for toddler clothes.

Here is an amazing coupon below!