World travelers often say that the “journey is more important than the destination.” That sounds like the words of someone who isn’t travelling with children! Whilst adults may not mind getting from home to the hotel, little ones may have more trouble with this concept.
So how can parents and grandparents set themselves up for a smooth journey? Whether you’re holidaying in New Zealand or abroad, a little planning can go a long way. Here are six tips for entertaining the kids whilst you travel.
1. Involve them in the planning
Ever planned a family trip, only to be met with bored little ones and sulky teens at your destination? Picking crowd-pleasing activities can be hard, especially as your children’s interests grow and change. One way to combat this is to get their opinions before booking your trip.
They don’t need free reign over the holiday, but getting the kids’ input can help you avoid meltdowns and ensure everyone has a good time. Research age appropriate activities or whittle them down by price, then present the grown up-approved options. Your children or grandchildren will feel like valued members of the “holiday team,” and will have something extra special to look forward to as you travel!
2. Bring surprise gifts
Anyone who has taken a long car ride or flight knows how easily boredom can creep in. Adults can manage their travel expectations, but this can be difficult for children, especially if this is their first big trip. To help avoid travel boredom, pack some surprises for the drive or flight.
Stock up on fun items, such as small toys, travel puzzles or colouring books—but keep them a secret! As you travel, give your little ones a new “boredom buster” every few hours. The novelty of a new toy will help keep them occupied and less likely to disturb fellow passengers. Older kids and teens might enjoy a surprise, too! Think books, magazines or a new game for their travel device.
3. Pack a screen & headphones
A new toy or book can be a fun travel surprise, but bringing too many activities for your kids can quickly weigh you down! Streamline your packing by taking advantage of smartphones and tablets.
Prep a tablet or old smartphone before you go by downloading entertainment that doesn’t require an internet connection. This could include books, magazines, music, games, TV shows or movies. There are even drawing and colouring book apps available for budding artists. Remember to pack headphones for some quiet time and a charger to top up the battery. You may find that you’ve freed up enough space to bring home a few extra souvenirs!
4. Give them a camera
Travel photos are a holiday must. Digital photography has made it easier than ever to capture special holiday moments. Why not let the kids in on some of the fun?
Inexpensive, kid-friendly cameras are available, or give them an old smartphone equipped with a camera. Kids as young as three can learn to operate either with a little help. Once they’ve gotten the hang of things, let them go wild! Learn what the world looks like from below, and see what scenery, objects and colours catch your child or grandchild’s attention. For older kids, consider a waterproof model or one designed especially to capture extreme sports.
5. Use public transport
Travel by car can be boring for kids. They likely take a drive every day—on the way to school, to the shops, or to weekend sport practice. Instead of hiring a car, try exploring your holiday destination using local public transport.
Young children love the novelty of using different modes of transportation. Riding a bus, train or ferry can feel like an adventure (and is one activity that’s usually easy on your wallet, too)! It’s a great way to experience a city as a local, instead of as a tourist, and an opportunity to meet the locals. Depending on your locale, you might come across some unique options. Trolleys, tuk-tuks or horse and buggy are all common in different countries!
6. Keep a travel journal
You’ll want to remember your holiday long after you’ve returned home, and so will your kids. Encourage them to keep a journal throughout your trip to collect their thoughts and memories.
Stationery shops may carry journals with pages especially for recording your travels, but your children may prefer a blank book that allows for more creativity. Unlined pages are great for drawing, or for pasting in ticket stubs and postcards. Have them write a few sentences about a place you visited, draw a picture of an activity or record all the new foods they’ve tried. Best of all, you can relax whilst they write down the day’s fun!
Not quite ready for a family holiday? Start by exploring your neighbourhood!
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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