Many new parents shudder at the thought of travelling with kids. Handling a rowdy bunch of young children at home is challenging enough. Taking them along on a holiday will be a lot more stressful. Not surprisingly, many parents put off family holidays until the kids are much older.
However, these days, holiday travels have become inevitable, especially with loved ones living in different corners of the world. If the need to travel with kids arises, the most important thing for parents to do is to get organized well ahead of the travel date.
Here are some suggestions to make holiday travel a lot more fun and less stressful for young families.
Check Availability of Baby Products
Babies and young children are not little people who can get by with things that adults can. They need baby food, nappies, wet wipes and a host of other baby products. That’s why parents should check the availability of baby products at places they wish to travel to. If there are little fussy eaters in tow, make sure adequate stock of usual foods are packed along.
Apply for Passports Early
If there are plans to travel abroad at least once a year, it’s advisable to apply for passports for all family members way before the travel date. Go to the relevant immigration department early. Don’t wait until long school holidays to organize passports. There are bound to be long queues ahead!
If there are existing passports, check their expiry dates. Some countries require that passports of visitors be valid not only for the duration of their visit but also for three to six months after the visitors’ entry to their countries. Check the passport expiration date carefully. Call the consulate of the country concerned for more information. You can even get help from http://passportseva.org.in portal.
Get Necessary Vaccinations and Medications
Travellers, young and old, can fall ill easily due to the changing environments, especially if they travel to less developed countries. Ensure that everyone get the necessary vaccinations before leaving the country.
Parents should also take children’s medications along since some countries may not have the same supplies. Remember to get the family physician to draft a letter verifying the need of the medications as some countries have certain restrictions about bringing any form of drugs into their territories.
Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not just for overseas travel but for domestic travel as well. Something unexpected and unpleasant can happen anytime during the holiday. The baggage may end up in another state, expensive items may get stolen and a child may have an accident or fall sick. Families with travel insurance will have peace of mind and have their holiday without any worries. For those travelling abroad, travel insurance is a necessity.
Although travelling with kids isn’t every parent’s cup of tea, it is something that can be managed with properly planning. Holiday tips for parents with young children include checking the availability of baby products at the destination, applying for passports early and checking the expiration date carefully, getting the necessary vaccinations and medications as well as buying travel insurance.
