by Christy Masters | Dec 20, 2022 | Family Travel
I think it’s safe to say that most parents want their children to be kind, well-rounded, and inquisitive little humans that grow up to be kind, well-rounded, and inquisitive adults. One of the ways we can encourage this is to travel with them, but we can’t be wheels up 24/7. There are, of course, things to consider – finances, work, and school schedules, time, etc. So how can we continue to inspire their curiosity and sense of wonder between trips? Check out these suggestions to keep your kids craving adventure.
Camera – Taking photos is fun for all ages and now they even make durable, child-friendly digital cameras. Like this one an Amazon: Child friendly camera It is exciting to see what is important to them and what interests them through what they capture. Great thing about this is they can use this at home and while they are traveling … SCORE!
Books – This is a given. There are so many books out there that can support their curiosity to learn about the world around them. Atlases, fact books, books with plots in other countries, books about traditions and culture. The list goes on. This is one we love: The Travel Book, A Journey Through Every Country In The World.
Globe – Whether the globe is interactive or old school, there is something about giving a globe a spin that makes exploring the places on them fun. It also puts into perspective for them how big the world is when they realize their home is just a small dot!
Adventure Fund – Move aside piggy bank. We aren’t saving for toys – we are saving for experiences! Having a fund designated for travel is a great way to get your children excited for their next adventure. They will be more likely to put their money towards it if the money is going towards something that you all agree on. Maybe a certain excursion or new luggage! Consider a money saving app for them like Chime.
Binoculars – Let them explore the world around them up close! They can use these when going on walks, playing hide and seek, and simply spotting nature around them. Playing ‘I Spy’ is also a fun way to put these to use. Anything is more exciting when you are looking at it close up and personal! Try out this pair great for smaller eyes: Binoculars for Adults and Kids
Local Experiences – You don’t always need to go halfway across the world when you get the itch for adventure. Visit local parks, farms, and zoos. Buy annual passes to a nearby amusement park. Take part in seasonal activities like skiing or a day trip to the lake. I always encourage families to gift experiences like these to help with cost as well.
I hope this list has inspired you to find ways to encourage your child’s wanderlust at home. Of course, when you are ready to take flight, I’d love to help you!
Contact me to start planning your next adventure. Click here to schedule a 30-minute phone call to discuss any of your travel wonders. I would love to help you plan domestically or internationally.
by Christy Masters | Nov 22, 2022 | Holiday Travel
Travel during the busy holiday season doesn’t have to be full of frustrations. Remember these few tips to help you have smooth travel.
- Plan and budget. Travel in peak holiday season can be extra busy and priced at a premium. We recommend you consider your travel plans six to nine months in advance to find the best deals for air and accommodations.
- Travel on off-peak days. (Don’t worry I’ll do the minus-a-day-here, add-a-day-there foolery) Avoid traveling the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas. Traveling early on the actual holiday can often save you frustration and money.
- Pack earplugs and sleep mask. Earplugs will be your friend on noisy flights and a sleep mask can help you get better sleep while in unfamiliar hotel surroundings. Think ultra-comfy out of the box. Sometimes this is necessary to feel just slightly comfortable while out of town! You can buy this set below here: Amazon.com: Lucky Whale Silk Satin Sleeping Eye Mask, Soft Sleep Eye Night Blindfold for Women and Men, Eyeshade Cover with Satin Hair Scrunchies and Ear Plugs, Wedding Bridesmaid Gift, Royal Blue : Beauty & Personal Care
- Ship your gifts. Save frustration with trying to keep your suitcase under the weight limit and avoid the chance of gifts being opened for inspection. Instead, ship your gifts to your destination in advance. Let the recipient know that it is to be opened when you arrive by attaching a fun bright tag with special instructions on there they should hid it from themselves. Click the link to get info on Shipping and to find a Post office near you: PO Locator | USPS
- Pack light. If you can manage it, try packing a carry-on suitcase only. You can always do laundry on your trip. This will help you avoid long lines to check in luggage and will let you keep your items with you should you have any flight or train schedule changes. Find my favorite suitcase here. Best carry-on Suitcase | Monos Travel Luggage & Accessories Fits in all overhead compartments and looks beautiful! Also, consider laundry sheets like these to wash those undies on the go! Amazon.com: Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets – Fresh Scent – No Plastic Jug (60 Loads) 30 Sheets, Liquidless Technology… : Health & Household
- Remember your chargers. With the need to arrive early to air and train terminals during the holiday season, don’t forget to bring your device chargers and even a travel charging brick as a backup. I suggest buying an extra of each charger you usually bring and keeping it right inside your suitcase at all times. Your special travel chargers!Amazon.com: Electronics Accessories Organizer Pouch Bag, Universal Travel Digital Accessories Storage Bag for Portable Charger, Cables, Earphone, iPhone, Cord, Customize Inside with Dividers, Pink : Electronics
- Call your travel advisor. Stay calm and call your travel advisor. I can help you find the best value and make sure your travel plans are smooth during the holiday season. I will be there with you for all the holiday season drama. when all else fails book a 30-minute meeting: https://calendly.com/setandrisevacations/30min …..It’s way less expensive than a therapist : )
I hope these tips help spark ideas of how you can have a great travel experience during this holiday season. Quick bonus tip: don’t forget to pack your smile and sense of humor. Your simple smile will help you keep a positive attitude – and may just brighten someone else’s day, too!
I wish you a wonderful holiday season that is filled with love and laughter and of course, memories.
