Accommodation
If you’re booking your own accommodation consider the sleeping arrangements. You should put the children in a separate bedroom to yourself. Look for places with interconnecting rooms or even book an apartment with several bedrooms.
Travel
Always allow the family extra time when traveling for any unforeseeable delays like an emergency bathroom stop over, dealing with luggage and the recovery of items that have been left behind. For airport checkins always arrive well in advance and discuss with your children what is involved in security checks so they don’t make silly jokes in front of airport personnel or delay the entire family because they’ve included something they shouldn’t have. Some transport services might offer assistance to families so always ask at the checkin desk whenever you are traveling. If your children have any health problems or you have a young baby, you should consult with a doctor about how they can travel as they may not be allowed to fly. Always have children seated away from the aisle on any form of transport so they don’t interfere with other passengers or service trolleys.
If your children are sensitive to motion try to give them some anti-nausea medicine half an hour before travel and don’t eat any large meals. Always carry a few items like books, toys, crayons or music to keep your child distracted and entertained on long journeys.
Arranging Child Care Overseas
The standard of babysitting / childcare services varies widely from place to place. There may not be the same standards of care that you are used to, training in first aid or even personal liability insurance. If you have any concerns, check with those offering the service first or other parents that might be leaving their children there.
Vaccinations and Health
Staying healthy while traveling helps ensure the trip is a happy and enjoyable one. Make an appointment with your doctor or health clinic before you go to find out if any vaccinations or health checks are needed. Make sure you have necessary medications with you and that they are legal in the countries you are visiting.
The most common problems that you’ll probably face when traveling with children is diarrhea. This is usually caused by a virus or bacteria. Always give the children filtered water and ensure food is fresh. Diarrhea drains water and salts from your child, and if these are not put back quickly, your child can become dehydrated so travel with an oral rehydration solution. Wash your hands and those of your children often when traveling, particularly before meals.
Destination and Activities
Consider carefully when it comes to selecting the destination and activities on your trip. Make sure you schedule in plenty of time with the kids and private time for yourself. There should also be some quiet time in the day for everyone so no one becomes too tired or grumpy. Meal times should be kept regulated, although obviously you can be a little more relaxed on vacation. If you are dining out you might find that restaurants and resorts offer child portions that are smaller and cheaper. In some countries dining times can be quite different to what they are at home, for example in Italy or France dinner is often a lot later and it can be difficult to find a place with a suitable eating time for children. If this is the case, consider a larger midday meal or have plenty of snacks to keep them going until dinner.