Do family vacations bring you bad memories? Confusion, stress, fatigue and tantrum episodes by your little ones is something recurring? Then this article is for you.
We all know that children adapt better to changes than adults and that it doesn´t take much to make them happy.
The trick to survive, and enjoy, a family vacation is simple: make sure everyone is enjoying the moment.
Check out six tips to put into practice on your next family trip:
1. Involve all members in the destination decision and the holiday schedule
Before scheduling your trip, join the family and ask all the elements where they would like to go and what they would like to do. In making this decision you will avoid discussions and avoid travelling with someone who is upset.
The fact that you enjoy museums or religious spaces doesn’t mean that your trip has to be dedicated only to these points. Organize the available time and diversify the script by including other genres of sites.
Children should also be heard and included in the planning of vacations, as a way to feel partially responsible for them.
You may consider visiting places mentioned in the educational program (such as the Guimarães Castle). By visiting places you have heard of will increase the enthusiasm of the children.
2. Attention to health
The unforeseen happens. The important thing is to be prepared for them, especially when traveling with children.
If the destination country belongs to the European Union, the European Health Insurance Card ensures treatment in public hospitals for the same price charged to you in your country. Don´t forget to ask for it in advance for all family members.
Also include a basic first aid kit in your suitcase. It will be very useful if someone unexpectedly gets hurt.
3. Don´t forget to do some breaks during the trip
Visiting and getting to know all the places (or almost all) in a few days is practically impossible. So forget about running around and take the necessary breaks.
Traveling with children is not like traveling with adults. The rhythms are different, you need to go slower and allow the children to enjoy the moments of rest that they need.
4. Always carry objects that entertain children
It’s a good idea to carry the favorite toys of the kids with you, as a way for them to entertain themselves during the most boring times (for example, during a long car or plane trip). Simply choose one or two with which the child feels a special attachment.
5. Water and snacks must be with you at all times
Not everyone can easily adapt to different foods or eating habits. So it is important to have something that can replace a local meal.
Avoid situations that can lead children to be hungry or thirsty by being accompanied by some kind of snack at all times.
Don´t forget to always have water with you. Hiking and walking requires that everyone stays hydrated.
6. Get around in a Tuk Tuk
If you want a holiday with less physical strain or if you simply want to take a break on the hikes, you and the rest of the family may want to book a tuk tuk tour.
You can avoid that feeling of tiredness typical of vacations if you choose to move in a Tuk Tuk. This motorized tricycle has capacity for several elements and still provides you with a unique and fun trip.
