guest post: top trip advice for traveling moms

i’m so exciting to share this guest post today from Kendra Thornton! it’s a honor to have such an expert here and read her trip advices!!

 Photo Credit: href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/86603835@N00/2414350097/">thejbird via href="http://compfight.com">Compfight href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">cc

Visiting new places and making memories, vacations can be an exciting time for children.  However, vacations can also mean stress for parents unless they take time beforehand to plan details that will help them have a stress-free vacation.

1.Checking Out The Perfect Resort For Your Family

When planning a vacation with children, pay special attention to where you are staying. Many resorts cater to families, with amenities such as indoor water parks, kids clubs, and playgrounds. While your kids are choreographing their next play or learning how to snorkel, you can relax with a massage or play a few rounds of golf.  On my family’s last big trip to Oahu, our family friendly resort was not only ranked as top Honolulu hotel but also recommended by a host of other families who had previously traveled to the Island State. If you are looking for activities for the entire family at the resort, consider a destination with outdoor activities, such as horseback riding. Children of all ages with enjoy this activity and it’s fun for adults too.

2.Forth of July Fireworks

If you are traveling around the Fourth of July, chances are you want to watch a fireworks display with your children.  If you are searching for a great display, look into some of the spectacular ones throughout our historic nation. When you arrive, there are some things you can do to assure a good experience for all ages.  Arrive early so you can get a good spot that is not blocked by trees.  Since you are arriving early, bring an outdoor game or activity you can play as a family to pass the time.  You’ll also want bug spray and light sweatshirts or coats just in case.  Depending on what area of the country you are in, it may get cold after the sun goes down, even in July. For holiday trips, it pays to be prepared!

3. Make Your Car Comfortable For Naps

If your travels involve a long car ride, there are things you can do to make the car as comfortable as possible for your children.  Consider purchasing blinds for the car windows to block the sunlight when your children are napping. If your child likes their favorite blanket or pillow when they sleep, make sure you pack that, and make it easily accessible to your child when they are in the car. Adding extra pillows and blankets will make the ride increasingly more comfortable and give your kids their own space to get excited about.

4.The Best Way to Carry Your Travel Supplies

When you travel, you usually have a travel bag that you will use to cram your belongings into.  This bag might be home to cameras, diapers, sippy cups, or miscellaneous toys.  If you have young children, a backpack is an ideal alternative to a travel bag.  There are many types that offer amenities such as roomy interior, extra pockets, and trend setting fabric. These bags can be found at a variety of stores at a variety of prices to fit your budget.  

5.Airport Security Guidelines For Parents

If you are traveling by plane with children, you will be busy enough in the security line watching your kids, and will not need extra stress of worrying if your bag will be held up at security.  Remember that TSA guidelines require all liquids to fit in a 3oz container and must all fit in 1 clear quart sized bag. Fortunately, baby formula and children’s juice is exempt but still must be presented to a security officer. Only pack the essentials in your carry-on and place the rest in your checked luggage to avoid having to purchase necessities you already own at an inflated price upon arrival.

 Photo credit: http://www.patrickwardphd.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sprinkler-kids-l.jpg

Kendra Thornton: Travel advocate, TV spokesperson, PR businesswoman, proud wife and mama of 3. I am a long time travel expert who has been packing my bags and traveling the world since I was 3 months old! I've found my utmost desire in life is right here in my own home. I have taken my excitement for travel and brought it to you with some of my favorite travel tips and tricks. Enjoy!