Category:

Travel

7 Important Tips For Traveling with Kids

by LifeAsMama December 6, 2019

Traveling is one of the best gifts you can give to your kids. It’s a great way to explore the world, meet new people and learn about geography, religion, culture and art. However, kids can be quite demanding, so traveling with your little ones without proper preparation can quickly turn into a cry-fest. Here are all the best ways to make traveling with kids easy, fun and fuss-free.

Make it simple

traveling with kids Happy beautiful family on a beach during summer vacation

Solo or couple travelers usually make their vacations fast-paced, but when you’re traveling with kids, you have to slow it down. Make sure you set realistic goals about what you can see and do at your destination. Cramming too many things into your itinerary will just make everyone nervous, exhausted and disappointed. A good rule is to organize a trip that’s suitable for the youngest child—if they can handle it, everyone can. Also, don’t forget to include plenty of stops, potty breaks, naps and snack stops into your day.

Be flexible with dates

If your kids don’t go to school yet, always choose to travel off-season. This will provide you with huge savings on both accommodation and flights, but also ensure you have a fuss-free, quiet and private vacation. Even if you have school kids, see if they can miss a few days of classes in order to travel outside major school holidays. If this is your kids’ first vacation, it’s best to explore the destination when there are no huge crowds of yelling tourists around.

Consider taking your car

Happy family on a road trip in their car

Of course, if you travel overseas, you can’t really take your car, but if you’re hitting the next state or the neighboring country, you might want to consider having a road trip. This is not only a more immersive way to travel, but it’s also much more comfortable and flexible than a plane or a bus. You can make your own itinerary, stop wherever and whenever you like and enjoy a trip filled with privacy. Just be sure to grab good car insurance that will keep you covered in case of an accident, natural disaster and theft. And ensure you opt for a comprehensive insurance deal that also offers emergency roadside assistance—you never know what can happen on the road. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with your tired and hungry kids in the car is not a good experience, so be protected.

Consider renting an apartment

traveling with kids Family Members Making Selfie. Parents and Kid Sitting on Sofa. Portrait at Home. Family Concept. Smiling Parents. Child at Home. Little Daughter. Child in Hugging. People in the Room.

Sure, hotels are luxurious, but most of them are not built from families with young kids. There’s not enough floor space for play, neighbors will be able to hear every tantrum and you will be left without a proper fridge and microwave. So, consider ditching hotels and opting for rental apartments instead. These will provide you with more space and you will have all the amenities at your disposal when you’re traveling with kids. Picking something with a washing machine is also a great idea, especially if you’re staying for more than a few days.

Pack smart

Remember that young kids can’t really help with luggage, so everything will be in your hands. For that reason, it’s better to travel light than to drag pounds and pounds of unnecessary things behind you. In order to reduce your luggage, roll clothing, wear your largest and heaviest clothes on the flight and minimize toys and electronics. It’s best to pack a lot of neutral, comfy and versatile clothing items you can combine and wear on many occasions. Also, allow your kids to choose a few clothing items to prevent meltdowns when getting dressed.

Bring a few comfort items

When your kids get tired, sad or bored, it’s a great idea to have their favorite toy, some familiar reading materials and good music at hand. These activity packs will be life-savers on a plane or in the car, so everyone can stay busy and relaxed.

Have a small surprise up your sleeve

Kids love a good surprise, so when you notice everyone is feeling a little tired and nostalgic for home, it’s time to spice things up. “Forget” to mention a visit to the waterpark, theme park, Legoland or zoo, but you can also have a no-warning ice cream stop. Pick something your kids love and it will bring a smile on everyone’s face.

With these travel tricks, you will not only provide your kids with an unforgettable vacation but also teach them to love traveling. Soon, you’ll be a proper adventurous family!

About the Author

Mia Taylor is 33 year old blogger who writes about beauty, fashion and travel. She had always been passionate about fashion and over time she had developed a style of her own. Mia loves to mix and match and get inspire girls with her advice about outfit and accessories. She loves telling a story about her travels, providing beauty tips with readers.

Twitter

Style Tricks: What to Pack for a Weekend Getaway

by LifeAsMama October 17, 2019

written by LifeAsMama

For some people, packing for a weekend getaway is something they do with ease, but for the majority of us, this simply isn’t the case. Even though we are aware that we only need to bring a https://realisationpar.com/shop/weekend’s worth of clothes and shoes, many of us tend to get carried away and either overpack, and this is especially true for those of us who wait until the last minute to start packing their bags and then do it in a hurry. To help you pack smarter, quicker, and lighter, we’re sharing a list of essentials you should definitely bring for your weekend getaway.

A pair of basic denim jeans you can dress up and down

An essential in every capsule suitcase, a pair of plain, basic denim jeans can be used to create a range of outfits. A pair of jeans in a classic, timeless hue can be mixed and matched with virtually anything, and their versatility allows them to be worn for many occasions. A nifty transitional piece, denim jeans can easily be taken from a daytime to a nighttime outfit with the addition of elegant accessories. During the daytime, they can be worn with flat shoes and a plain tee, and when the sun goes down, they can be paired with cute heels, a feminine top, and statement jewelry to get a chic outfit for a night out.

A jacket that can be worn with multiple outfits

Another important item in a weekend travel bag, a versatile jacket that can be restyled and worn with multiple outfits is going to save a lot of space in your suitcase. Depending on the weather and season of the year, pack a jacket you can rock with different shirts – it’s best to stick within a neutral color palette and go with hues like beige, gray, black, and tan. If it’s cold, a cozy, camel coat may be the perfect garment to pack, but if it happens to be warm and sunny, you should bring a versatile denim jacket. As for autumn and spring, a trench coat or a quality leather jacket in a neutral color will do the trick.

A printed dress as a statement piece

While basic, neutral pieces are a must on every weekend packing list, it’s advisable to bring at least one or two statement pieces that call for attention. Not one garment can make a woman feel more in touch with her feminine nature than a chic, fitted dress. A beautiful Realisation Par dress can make a woman feel empowered and take any outfit from basic to chic in an instant. Be sure to pack at least one statement dress and maybe a skirt that you can wear during the day and turn it into a nighttime outfit by swapping out the accessories and changing the tone of the dress.

Lightweight tops you can layer

While it might be tempting to pack sweaters to keep you cozy during the winter, chances are, they’re going to overtake your suitcase, leaving no space for some other essentials. It’s better to pack several shirts you can layer, and combine them with a lightweight jacket or a simple coat. If it happens to be warm, wear an unbuttoned denim top paired with a simple tee or wear it as a shirt on its own. If you simply can’t afford not to bring your favorite knit, winter sweater for your weekendgetaway, consider wearing it while you’re traveling. This will help save space in your suitcase and keep your travel bag light, meaning you won’t be paying extra for luggage.

Neutral shoes that match all your outfit combinations

Another basic element on your weekend packing list, shoes can be used to tie the whole outfit together or support the look without attracting too much attention. When traveling, comfort is king, so it’s best to equip your suitcase with neutral, cozy shoes that you can match with all your outfits. Bring a pair you can wear while walking and sightseeing (sneakers or ballerina flats), one pair you can wear for any special activities you had in mind, and then one pair of shoes that will spice up your outfits and dress them up (heels or sandals). If the weather’s changing, be sure to pack a pair of shoes that accommodate those weather conditions (boots or flip-flops).

Women are notoriously known for bringing overflowing suitcases when traveling, even when it’s just for a couple of days. It’s high time females set the record straight and stop getting all the bad rap about overpacking. By mindfully organizing your travel bag and being strict with your outfit choices, you can master the art of packing light and make sure you’re all set for your weekend break.

About the Author

Twitter

Lifestyle Travel

7 Activities for Your Fam to Try in Boston This Summer

by Jennifer Landis July 3, 2019

written by Jennifer Landis

Taking the family to Boston this summer? It turns out that Beantown has a host of kid-friendly activities that will be fun for their doting parents, too. So pack up your suitcases and head to the Northeast. Then try one of these seven fam-approved Bostonian things to do.

1. Splash in the Christian Science Plaza

Sprawling over 13.5 acres of land, the Christian Science Center in Boston draws many tourists for its stunning architecture and grounds. Families will love it because of its plaza filled with fountains. Pack the right sun-protective clothing, sunscreen and towels, then let the little ones run wild through the spouting water features that line the plaza.

2. Visit the New England Aquarium

The great thing about the New England Aquarium is that everyone in the family will love it, whether you’ve got toddlers, teens or both. And, let’s face it, visiting the aquarium can be pretty fun for grown-ups, too. For starters, the aquarium has a four-story coral reef tank at its center, wherein you and your brood can observe the colorful undersea foliage as well as the animals that inhabit it. Then you can check out the touch tank, where your kids can pick up starfish and other gentle creatures.

Along with all the fish, there are some furry friends to visit, too. Outside the aquarium, for instance, you’ll find bouncy seals and sea lions. In other words, this will be a full and fun day for the fam—buy your tickets online to ensure you can get in and get on with your tour.

3. Walk the Freedom Trail

Older kids and younger ones with an interest in history will love to traverse the Freedom Trail with you. As you know, Boston has a lengthy history, especially in the fight for American independence from England. As such, there are plenty of sights to see, many of which you’ll find along the red-brick-lined Freedom Trail. The 2.5-mile trek includes stops at Boston Common, the nation’s oldest park, the Massachusetts State House, and the city’s oldest building, the Old State House. Make sure you bring plenty of water, comfy shoes, sunscreen and kids who will be jazzed to see such important parts of the country’s history.

4. Play on Boston Common

Even if your child can’t handle the entire Freedom Trail walk, they can still visit Boston Common. You’ll be glad to take them there, too, as a run through the park will surely burn off a bit of their extra energy.

The 50-acre park has plenty of kid-friendly elements, which is why it often makes the list of best places to visit with a toddler. For starters, there’s an eye-catching, 22-foot fountain that your child will love to see. Plus, there is a frog pond and playground, as well as a pay-per-ride carousel that will definitely delight your little one. And, of course, there are sprawling stretches of grass where they can run and play amid a little piece of history — the Common is, of course, the country’s oldest public park.

7. Cheer for the Sox at Fenway Park

Take them out to the ball game! Boston’s historical baseball field is the perfect place to bring your family for a night of fun and excitement. Not only does the famous park have plenty of atmosphere, but attending a baseball game makes it easy for you to keep the kids happy, contained, and content. You can grab stadium food, sit down and root for the home team, and the kids will love every minute of it.

6. Set Sail on a Whale Watching Tour

Perhaps your little ones loved the aquarium and want to see more marine wildlife. If so, a whale-watching tour might be the perfect activity to add to your summer itinerary. Tours will take you to local harbors, bays, and marine sanctuaries where marine mammals frolic. You might see dolphins and sea birds, as well as a variety of different whale species—humpback, pilot, and even endangered right whales have appeared during such treks. Plus, some tour groups have knowledgeable naturalists on board to explain everything you see, making it an incredible learning experience for you and your kids.

5. Explore the Boston Children’s Museum

Checking out a children’s museum is always a safe bet, but in Boston, you’re in for something spectacular. This one stands as one of the world’s oldest establishments of its kind, even inventing the concept of hands-on exhibits to enhance children’s engagement and learning. Plus, there’s a giant climbing structure inside, where kids can scale three stories and check out great views of the city. Plus, the museum puts on a slew of events and activities that will further entertain and delight your little ones — they can watch performances, make crafts, and more. If you’re attending with a big group, consider visiting on Friday when it’s only $1 to get in.

Visit Boston

It can be tough to travel with little ones in tow. However, a family trip to Boston affords all of you the chance to enjoy attractions both entertaining and informative. So, pack your bags, plan your trip and get going—this family-friendly city is waiting to show you a great time.

Travel

6 Tactics for Surviving Long Flights With Young Kids

by Karly Wood June 25, 2018

written by Karly Wood

Just this month, our family of three headed across the United States and the Atlantic Ocean for a European vacation. Coming from California, that means we all boarded a flight that was a little over 10 hours, and with a 5-year-old-in tow, it was an adventure to say the least. While I can’t call myself a master of trans-Atlantic flights, I will say I know more now than I did when heading into such a trip. Here are some of my tips and tactics for getting through long flights with young kids.

long flights with kids

1. Start Talking About Your Trip Ahead of Time

While this tip may not apply to families traveling with kids under the age of 3, we found that discussing the impending looong flight to be a big help with our 5-year-old. Even though she doesn’t quite grasp the complete concept of time and hours, she knew that it would be a lengthy trip. We talked about needing to get some rest but also that she could watch some movies and have snacks. We outlined what would happen when we were on the plane, and how we would need to navigate the airport, a car ride to the hotel and a few other things when we arrived. Although we still landed exhausted, we all knew what to expect which was a huge help for two exhausted parents!

2. Bring Comfy Clothes

Oh, the outfits people wear on 10 hour flights! I’ve never witnessed such uncomfortable ensembles for a half-day journey as I did this trip. We personally threw all fashion caution to the wind and brought PJ’s for our red-eye flight. While not all long-haul trips are overnight, most will involve sleep in some sort, even if just for a nap. Keep the kiddos comfy and pack pajamas or sweats that won’t inhibit sleeping, and get ready to cozy up with your little’s fave blankie.

3. Consider Natural Supplements to Encourage Sleep

If you’re traveling overnight, chances are your kiddos will be pretty excited and sleep won’t come easy. If you’re not into using Benedryl (no judgment here!), consider a natural supplement like melatonin to send the kiddos off to dreamland. We personally used Wink Naturals Sleep Melts with melatonin once we got on the plane and were pleased that our daughter snagged 6 hours of sleep (parents got pretty much zero-because planes). I have no doubt she would have tried to stay up the entire time without melatonin, and that precious 6 hours meant we could navigate London from our 3pm arrival time to bedtime and beat jetlag.

4. Bring Extra Snacks & Food

If you have a little sleeper, chances are they miss mealtime, or just not enjoy airplane food (no surprise there). Bring plenty of snacks and other food to help bridge the gap between takeoff and landing. Don’t depend on airport shops and kiosk to have what you need––come prepared to the airport! No one wants a hangry kiddo on a long flight!

5. Pack Plastic Bags

As a mom of a queasy traveler, I know first hand how small “barf bags” can be on airplanes. Good luck catching a potential vomit incident in a pint-sized doggy bag! It’s never a bad idea to pack a few extra plastic bags (grocery or 4-gallon trash bags) for motion sickness or to just corral the mess that kids always make. They take up virtually no space, can help catch huge messes and bring tons of peace of mind.

6. Plan Non-Screen Activities

Most long flights host small televisions with plenty of kids games, shows and movies but even those can grow tiresome on a lengthy trip. It’s a good idea to pack some non-screen activities like coloring books, search and find activities, small toys and easy craft materials like Wikki Stix. One of the keys to surviving long travels is diversity! Let the kids watch one movie, and break it up with a snack, a trip to the bathroom and a hands-on activity. You’ll be at your destination before you know it!

I received a free bottle of Wink Naturals Melatonin Melts in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

11 Essential Tips For Flying With A Toddler

10 Must Know Tips For Flying With Young Children

6 Tactics for Surviving Long Flights With Young Kids

Travel

5 Easy Ways to Save On a Disney World Vacation

by Guest Post June 5, 2018

written by Guest Post

Ways to Save at Disney World

Ever since Magic Kingdom opened its doors in 1971, Disney World vacations have been a right-of-passage for generations of young families. Today, the resort is bigger and better than ever before. There has never been a better time to visit Disney than the present!

Disney World is comprised of four expansive theme parks, two gigantic water parks, more than twenty-five resort hotels, over a hundred restaurants of all types, four golf courses, shopping, and nightlife. Whatever your age – or wherever your interests may lie – you are bound to love something about this destination. I can attest to the fact that adults love the park just as much as the kids!

Not surprisingly, the major downside is the cost. A family of four can expect to spend at least a few thousand dollars on a five-day Disney World vacation. And that’s not including airfare! However, there are a number of strategies you can implement in order to make your family vacation as affordable as possible.

With that said, here are my top 5 ways to save on a Disney World vacation without compromising your level of fun.

Source: DisneyWorld.disney.go.com

1. Stay at a Disney Value Resort

Disney World has 3 tiers of resort hotels: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Disney Value resorts are far and away the least expensive tier and an optimal choice for families on a shoestring budget.

Each of the five Disney Value resorts have fun themes and decor geared towards kids, fantastic pools, arcades, and food courts serving quick meals. Because you are staying at a Disney-owned resort, guests receive certain perks which those staying off-property do not receive. These include: Extra Magic Hours (extended time at a designated theme park beyond normal operating hours), free transportation to/from the theme parks, free shuttle service to/from Orlando International Airport, up to 60-day advance booking for FastPass+ selections, and an extended window to make advance dining reservations.

Possibly the most appealing reason to stay at a Disney Value resort is their low cost. As of 2018, the least expensive Value resorts start at a just $110 per night (All-Star Movies, All-Star Music, and All-Star Sports). Standard rooms at a Disney Deluxe Resort often cost three or four times this amount!

As far as negatives go, Value resorts have no-frills decor, the rooms are small and can only be accessed from the outdoors (ie, no interior corridors), there are no table service dining options, and you are limited to bus transportation to get to the theme parks. Value resorts also tend to be more noisy than Moderates and Deluxes because the resorts are less spread out and seem to attract more families with younger children. However, Value resorts are a no-brainer if your bottom line is of utmost consideration. If money is less of an object, consider the Moderates and Deluxe resorts because they are admittedly nicer, more spacious, and have superior transportation options.

If you will have a car for the duration of your trip, you may want to consider renting a property in the Orlando area. Websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VRBO, and FlipKey have plenty of listings at different price points. Rentals offer the potential to save you money while also giving you a little more space and privacy.

Another option is to stay at an off-property (non-Disney) resort hotel. Often times these are less expensive than Disney resorts yet still offer fabulous amenities and complimentary shuttle service to the park. However, there is something extra magical about staying at a Disney resort which you will miss out on by staying off-property. My recommendation is to go with a Disney Value resort!

5 Easy Ways to Save On a Disney World Vacation

2. Go during the Off-Season

Disney World is the single most visited resort in the world. As such, there are rarely days when the park isn’t crowded. However, certain times of the year are less crowded than others. Often these less crowded periods coincide with the times in which Disney offers lower resort rates and seasonal promotions.

Unfortunately, the crowded season typically occurs when schools are out on break. Disney is constantly adjusting room rates based on the demand, but as a general rule, you can expect higher rates during holiday breaks, weekends, summers, and other peak periods (usually any school vacation period or when Disney hosts special events). More specifically, busy times include President’s Day weekend, February school vacation, Easter vacation, Spring break, Memorial Day weekend, summer vacation from late May until mid August, Labor Day weekend, Thanksgiving vacation, and Christmas vacation through New Year’s.

The least crowded (and often cheapest) time to visit Disney includes the weekdays, January through mid-February (except MLK holiday weekend), and September through early December (excluding Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving week).

My favorite time to visit the park is during the autumn months of September and October because the crowds are subdued, the rates at tend to be lower, and the Florida weather is beautiful that time of year. Unfortunately, this time frame doesn’t always work out well for young families. But if it does, try to plan your trip during the autumn time.

I would recommend viewing a Disney Crowd Calendar for crowd estimates before booking your trip.

Ways to Save at Disney World

3. Save on Theme Park Tickets

With the exception of those in the military, Disney World doesn’t offer much in the way of theme park discounts. However, there are a few things that you should be aware of which could potentially save you money.

For starters, theme park tickets gradually decrease in price the more days you purchase. For example, three days worth of theme park tickets start at $101.65 per day (2018), while five days worth start at $79 per day, and nine days at just $48.34. Disney does this to incentive us to stay longer. But – of course – not everyone has the time or money to spend a full nine days at Disney World.

With this price drop in mind, it may be cost-advantageous to extend your Disney vacation by a few days while also making a pact with your family to take fewer vacations in the future. This offset could save you money in the long run.

Another thing I would point out is that a standard theme park ticket allows you entry into only one theme park for the day. In other words, if you buy a Magic Kingdom ticket, you won’t be able to use that ticket at Animal Kingdom, Epcot, or Universal Studios. Disney offers its “Park Hopper” ticket as a way around this restriction. The Park Hopper allows you to hop between any theme park you wish during the day with just the one ticket.

While this may sound great on the surface, the Park Hopper ticket will cost you roughly 30% more than a standard, single theme park ticket. When it comes down to it, the Park Hopper is not really worth the extra money because each theme park has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained for at least a full day. Plus, who wants to spend their valuable vacation time shuttling between parks when you could be enjoying the rides at the theme park of your choice? Stick with the standard theme park tickets and your wallet will thank you.

Ways to Save at Disney World

4. Skip the Theme Parks for a Day or Two

If extending your vacation to lock in lower-priced theme park tickets isn’t in the cards, you may want to take an entirely different approach. Why not spend a day or two away from the theme parks and explore the 47 square miles of Disney World? There are tons of free things to do around the park that won’t cost you a dime. Here are a few on my suggestions:

Disney Springs: Head over to Disney Springs, the shopping and entertainment district of Disney World. Here you can watch the street performers and musicians, build something at the Lego Imagination Center (a 3,000 square foot LEGO play area), browse around the stores and souvenir shops, or hop on a Disney Springs water taxi and explore the nearby resorts.
Disney’s BoardWalk: The BoardWalk is a vibrant quarter-mile promenade modeled after turn-of-the-century Coney Island. Stroll along the banks of Crescent Lake, watch the street performers, dine, window shop, or just do some people watching.
Disney Transportation: Whether it is monorail, boat, or bus, all modes of Disney World transportation are free of charge. Board the monorail and loop around Magic Kingdom and the Contemporary, Grand Floridian, and Polynesian resorts. Get off at each resort to explore the beautiful lobbies and grounds. Or hop aboard a water taxi and enjoy a relaxing and scenic boat ride around the waterways of Disney World. View a Disney transportation mapto plan your route.
Free Art Classes: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offers free art classes throughout the daytime. An instructor will teach you how to draw a famous Disney cartoon character, and you get to keep your artwork as a souvenir. All ages are welcome and you don’t have to be staying at the resort to participate.
Relax by the Pool: Take advantage of the afternoon calm and head to your resort’s pool or jacuzzi. Most guests will be at the theme parks so you may just have it all to yourself!

Ways to Save at Disney World

5. Use a Disney Travel Agent

First of foremost, Disney travel agents are completely free to you, the client. There are no hidden fees and Disney itself pays these agents a small commission to help their guests and promote the Disney World brand. With that misconception cleared up, there are several reasons to use a specialized Disney travel agent. Namely, they will likely save you money and make your life easier in the process.

Disney travel agents stay on top of all the discounts and promotions. They search for the best available rates for their clients and will even re-book the trip if a better rate becomes available after the initial booking. You can certainly book your own trip, but having someone there to search through all the available discounts is added insurance that you will get the best possible rate.

When you use a Disney travel agent, you have someone there to give you advice and answer your questions. Most agents have been to Disney dozens of times, so they can give your first-hand accounts and informed advice as to which resorts, theme parks, attractions, restaurants, etc. align with your vacation goals. They will also book your hotel stay, theme park tickets, dining reservations, and FastPass+ selections for you. When all is said and done, a Disney travel agent can save you time, money, and the stress of finding the best possible vacation package for you and your family. And since it won’t cost you a dime, there is really no reason not to use one!

Final Thoughts: In conclusion, I would also like to mention that children under the age of 3 years are granted free admission into the theme parks and water parks. This is great news for families with infants and toddlers! And finally, while most people purchase the Disney Dining Plan, be aware that you can bring your own food and (non-alcoholic) beverages into the theme parks to save money.

I hope these tips will help to make your Disney World family vacation more affordable. Have a magical trip!

Author Bio:

Today’s guest post is by Disney World blogger Jonathan de Araujo. Read more of Jonathan’s articles at MagicGuides.com

Ways to Save at Disney World

6 Must-Have Accessories For Your Trip To Disney

18 Inside Hacks For Taking Your Kids To Disneyland

DIY Disney Shirts For Your Next Trip To The Magic Kingdom

9 Things To Do At The Disneyland California Resort On A Crowded Day

5 Easy Ways to Save On a Disney World Vacation

SaveSave

Travel

8 Ideal Spots For a Long Weekend Family Trip

by Karly Wood May 11, 2018

written by Karly Wood

As much as we’d all love a good long vacation, we don’t always have the time or resources to make it happen. That’s where a long weekend trip comes in! Parents everywhere have found that packing up and heading out for a 3-4 day trip satisfies the travel bug and gives our kids tons of new experiences, without the price tag of a a huge vacation. Check out some great ideas to take the family on your next long weekend.

long weekend family trips

1. Chicago, Illinois

Pack in tons of sights and sounds, or keep it low key––a weekend in Chicago is whatever you want it to be! Take the kids to see the Bean, the Art Institute or Millennium Park. Enjoy gorgeous weather for 3 out of the 4 season and savor tons of local flavor at your choice of restaurants.

Head to A Passion And A Passport for some great itinerary recommendations!

long weekend family trips

2. Savannah, Georgia

A little bit of history for mom and dad and a whole lotta fun for the kids await you when you visit Savannah, Georgia. Make sure you take the kids to the outdoor Savannah Children’s Museum, on the site of a former train station. Stroll through Forsyth Park and hit up some local eateries for the complete Southern experience.

Check out Family Vacations US for some great tips on visiting Georgia with the fam.

long weekend family trips

3. Raleigh, North Carolina

Of the top 10 things to do in Raleigh, Visit Raleigh lists beer-related activities two times! While mom or dad is relaxing in the Raleigh Beer Garden or taking a walk through the Raleigh Beer Trail, the other can be taking the kiddos to the North Caroline Museum of Natural Sciences, Museum of Art, Marbles Kid Museum, taking a plunge in Jordan Lake, strolling through Pullen Park or hanging out at the Videri Chocolate Factory. While you’re there, try and catch a concert- you won’t be disappointed!

Check out Family Travel Magazine for more kid-focused activities in North Carolina!

long weekend family trips

4. Kansas City, Missouri

We’re not in Kansas anymore! There are plenty of kid-friendly activities in Kansas City, including Legoland Discovery Center, it’s next door neighbor SEA LIFE Aquarium, the Kansas City Zoo, Kaleidescope and Science City. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! For dad, there’s always the Kansas City Chiefs! Don’t forget to grab a snack at the Crayola Cafe before hitting the road home!

Check out Kidventurous to see more fun things to do in KC.

long weekend family trips

Source: Kat Jenkinson via flickr

5. Traverse City, Michigan

Visiting Traverse City means fun for everyone.There’s biking, hiking and beaches for the entire family, tap rooms, microbreweries and wineriess for mom and dad and tons of amazing restaurants. If you visit in the summer, get ready to enjoy the annual Cherry Festival in addition to the natural beauty that Michigan has to offer.

Plan your trip to Michigan by visiting the Traverse City website!

long weekend family trip

6. Charleston, South Carolina

If the beach alone isn’t enough to draw you to Charleston, the Charleston peninsula should do it. The historic district is packed with old gems and is super walking friendly. For the kiddos, hit up the South Carolina Aquarium, all the plantations you can muster, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, and take a stroll across the Cooper River Bridge. There’s also no shortage of fabulous Southern cooking to satisfy your fried cravings!

We found a great list of things to do in Charleston over at Scary Mommy!

long weekend family trips

7. Seattle, Washington

Get ready for some amazing learning experiences when you visit Seattle with the fam. The Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Children’s Museum at Seattle Center, and Living Computer Museum are just a few educational experiences that are surprisingly fun. Enjoy the beautiful Seattle weather by getting outside and visits Pike Place Market, the Woodland Park Zoo and riding the Ferris Wheel on the Seattle Waterfront. Don’t forget to get your fill of fresh fish!

We can’t even begin to list all the amazing things to do in Seattle, so check out Santorini Dave!

long weekend family trips

Source: Chad McDonald via flickr

8. La Jolla, California

Pronounced “La Hoya,” this destination is perfectly placed above San Diego and without all the traffic hubbub. If your family loves the outdoors, then La Jolla is for you. Take time to check out the seals at The Children’s Pool, La Jolla Shores Beach, Shell Beach Tide Pools and plenty of outdoor parks.Catch a concert by the sea in the summer and if you’re brave- snorkel with leopard sharks! Take a quick day trip into San Diego for even more fun at places like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo or Seaworld.

Check out all the fun things to do in La Jolla by checking out La Jolla Mom.

7 Packing Cubes You Positively Need For Your Next Vacay

5 Fun And Romantic Weekend Getaway Ideas

6 Perfect Fall Travel Destinations For Families

8 Ideal Spots For a Long Weekend Family Trip

Travel

7 Packing Cubes You Positively Need For Your Next Vacay

by Karly Wood April 10, 2018

written by Karly Wood

Traveling can be thrilling and adventurous, at least it was before we had kids. Now it can be a mash of fun, stress and mess. But packing cubes are here to save the day! Take the hectic out of packing, and delve into the world of packing cubes: a simple way to organize your wardrobe for your next vacation. We love them because they keep everything neat and tidy, but also because they come in tons of colors to keep everyone’s clothes sorted. Here are some of our favorite affordable packing cubes we know you’ll love for travel.

packing cubes

Source: Amazon.com

1. Bagail 4 Set of Cubes- $19.99

Coming in tons of colors, this 4 set of packing cubes also comes with a free laundry bag to sort out dirty clothes! Use the smallest bag for packing small items or as a toiletry bag, and enjoy the mesh tops to see what you’ve packed in each bag. Cubes come with a carrying handle and a corded double zipper pull for easy opening and closing. With an 85% 5-star rating on over 2,000 reviews, you can bet this product is perfect for your next vacay!

packing cubes

Source: Amazon.com

2. Shacke Pak 4 Set of Cubes- $22.99

Shacke Pak’s packing cubes are made from water resistant nylon that also shies away from tearing. Coming in 9 different colors and a 4-inch design, this brand is perfect for buying multiple sets to accomodate your entire family easily. The deep cubes allow for tons of room, and the extra black tote the cubes come in can serve as a great shoe bag or laundry bag.

packing cubes

Source: Amazon.com

3. Eagle Creek Pack It Specter Compression Cube Set, 2 pack- $31.96

Eagle Creek’s Compression Cube are a totally unique way to pack. While they do run a little more expensive, they also pack tons of punch. Load up your bags and then use the compression zipper to flatten each cube for maximum packing potential. They are made from an ultralight speciality nylon that avoids rips and tears, all while allowing some level of transparency to see what you’ve packed!

packing cubes

Source: Amazon.com

4. eBags Ultralight Packing Cubes, set of 5- $54.99

If you’re looking for a larger, but lightweight set of cubes then check out this collection from eBags. Each cube has a lightweight wire in the top to help maintain shape and an ultra strong zipper, too. This set comes with some much needed small bags for toting unmentionables or even electronics.

packing cubes

Source: Ikea.com

5. Förfina Travel Bag, set of 6- $9.99

This budget-friendly set of travel bags from Ikea is perfect for short trips. Reviews state that most travelers wish there were a few larger size options, but that overall, the bags wear well and handle small items nicely. One thing’s for sure- you can’t beat that price!

packing cubes

Source: Amazon.com

6. Travelwise Packing Cube System, 5 pieces- $22.99

Five cubes for under $25 makes for a great purchase from small business Travelwise. Choose from 6 colors to keep everyone organized in this set that includes 3 different sizes. This is a basic set of packing cubes that still gets the job done.

packing cubes

Source: REI.com

7. REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

You know you’re getting quality when you purchase these packing cubes from REI. Made with a special expandable feature, it’s like you’re getting 6 cubes for the prices of 3. Each bag has a top and side handle, heavy duty zippers, high quality nylon and mesh viewing pockets. Whether you’re back packing or jet setting, these bags will get you through.

10 Family-Oriented Vacation Spots Around The World

by Guest Post March 13, 2018

written by Guest Post

When you think of family holidays, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Theme parks and zoos? Well, it doesn’t have to be like that!

There are several vacation spots that you and your kids can enjoy together. We’ve compiled a list of 10 of these remarkable destinations. Browse through them and see which of these will make it to your travel bucket list:

Family-Oriented Vacation Spots

1. Lapland, Finland

Ideal for children: 4+

Have you ever dreamed of visiting the winter wonderland? Lapland is the closest place to that dream! Known as the hometown of Santa Claus, Lapland has a variety of activities for adults and kids. You can ski, visit a reindeer farm, or go for a snow safari; this place can cater to all your outdoor winter fantasies. However, the main attraction of Lapland is the Northern Lights – a slideshow of nature’s multi-colored lights visible around 200 nights a year. To observe nature in its full glory, you will have to go at least 60 degrees towards the north

The customary way to view the Northern Lights is to go sled dog touring or snowshoeing. Nevertheless, you can opt for the comfortable option of sky gazing in a cozy setting as well.

Family-Oriented Vacation Spots

Source: Richard Probst via flickr

2. Port Angeles, Washington

Ideal for children: 8+

Port Angeles offers many exciting vacation spots for families, but the one that all the children get excited about is the Olympic National Park. The park has a versatile eco-system with tropical rainforests, coastal tide pools, and mountain vistas. It is the ideal place to revitalize and connect with your family and nature. Plus, there are several picnic areas spread throughout the park with meal facilities.

Also, the place holds several other attractions, including a hiking trail, a forest with bright yellow banana slugs, tide pools filled with crabs and snails, and glow worms after sunset. Of the many attractions for kids, the most popular is the Discovery Room present in the main visitor center. It has puppets, interactive touch tables, Ranger Station playhouse, and more.

Family-Oriented Vacation Spots

3. The Greek Islands

Ideal for children: 1+

For exotic beaches, famous relics, lively villages, and mouth-watering food visit the Greek Islands. With an abundance of historical sites, the islands offer a unique experience for people of all ages. Rent a villa at one of the islands and experience the cultural magnificence.

Kids Travel

4 Tips To Make Traveling With Kids As Fun As Possible

by Amanda Foust July 1, 2017

written by Amanda Foust

We have given you many reasons you should travel with kids. But let’s be honest, traveling with children is not easy! During a road trip, the playlist is full of kids’ songs, the drive includes continuous questions and possibly crying fits, there are frequent stops for potty breaks and snacks, and your vehicle is ANYTHING but organized. On a flight, you spend the entire time trying to make sure your kids don’t disturb any of the other passengers and you find your arms or legs falling asleep because your kiddos are latched onto you the entire flight. You walk off the plane hungry, tired, and irritable.

So how can we make traveling easier and more fun for ALL involved? Here are some ideas:

–Pack each child an individual, customized backpack of activities.

–Save electronics as a last resort (not because they are BAD but because you want your children to not get bored of their electronics too soon).

–Have plenty of snacks and water on hand! There’s nothing worse than hangry kiddos trapped inside of a car together!

–Remember that the trip doesn’t start when you arrive at the destination. The trip begins when you leave home, so make traveling FUN!

traveling with kids

Source: kristendukephotography.com

1. Road Trip Scavenger Hunt

Your kiddos probably enjoy looking out the windows and pointing out what they see (when their faces aren’t in front of a screen). Make it easy for your kids to look for specific things with the printable scavenger hunt worksheet above! You can even do this activity together as a family and see who can find the most by the end of the trip!

Check out kristendukephotography.com for all things family fun! She captures her kid’s joy through the use of photography and shares it with us along with tips for how we can create a similar experience with our children.

traveling with kids

Source: iheartcraftythings.com

2. Educational Games

Who says kiddos can’t continue to brush up on some learning while they are traveling? The tool above is an easy way for kids to practice their spelling! All you need is magnets, magnetic letters, popsicle sticks, markers, and a metal container to keep all the supplies together! You will write easy words on the popsicle sticks, place magnets on the back, and then your child will use his/her magnetic letters to spell the words on the sticks.

Check out iheartcraftythings.com for more kids craft and activity ideas.

traveling with kids

Source: Buzzfeed.com

3. Healthy Travel Snacks

Remember how I said to have plenty of snacks on hand? Well. being asked for a snack every five seconds can be pretty irritating. So the food travel kit is a GREAT way to pre-prep the snacks, pick ones that each child likes, and limit the amount your children are eating. Let your children choose one snack every 30-minutes or whatever works best for you — maybe two snacks for the older children. Each time you stop, you can refill the food travel kit with the extra snacks you have as-needed.

traveling with kids

Source: sweetrosestudio.com

4. Travel binder

I love the idea of a kids’ travel binder! It’s fun, educational AND a quiet activity. Customize each binder based on your children’s interests or what they are learning in school! Color in a map of the U.S. according to the license plates you see along the way. Also, include writing and drawing prompt worksheets. You can even include a journal page for each day so your children can record memories of their favorite things and how they felt about the trip once you arrive!

Check out sweetrosestudio.com for more kids printables and DIY tips!

For more travel ideas, look at these Printable Roadtrip Games from thejoysofboys.com.

Tell us in the comments all of your best tips for traveling with kids!

traveling with kids

Bio
Latest Posts

Amanda Foust

Amanda is a wife, mother, writer/editor, and certified life coach. Pen and paper make her spirit come alive. She spends her creative time reading, decorating, and handwriting fonts. Her world is better with an assortment of chocolate and a stack of books packed and ready for travel. She works each day to be a creative maker and a light bringer. You can find more of her writing at Downs, Ups & Teacups and TheDailyPositive.com.

Latest posts by Amanda Foust (see all)

10 Last Minute Teacher Gift Ideas - November 29, 2018
10 Healthy And Tasty After School Snacks - August 16, 2018
What My Kids Have Learned From Seeing A Working Mom - August 8, 2017

Travel

9 Things To Do At The Disneyland California Resort On A Crowded Day

by Karly Wood June 30, 2017

written by Karly Wood

I can think of few things more disappointing then saving your hard-earned money for a trip to California’s Disneyland Resort, only to get there on a super crowded day. It’s super frustrating to look up and see a virtual sea of people as you make your way down Main Street and attempt to navigate long lines, all in the spirit of good fun. In recent years, nothing has stopped the crowds at Disneyland, with there being fewer and fewer “ghost town” days where you can basically walk on rides. Not even rising ticket prices are keeping people away from experiencing the magic of Disney. As an annual pass holder, I visit the resort often and most of the time it’s crowded. If I waited to go on empty days, we would probably never go. So, we’ve learned how to make the best of a trip to the Disneyland California Resort (assuming you have a park hopper ticket) on a crowded day. Here are some of the fun things you can do to keep the magic alive on a packed day.