Ah, summer travel with kids! I must admit, it’s quite the adventure—a chaotic mix of excitement and madness. I’ve been there, wrangling my little ones through airports and onto planes, questioning my sanity with each passing moment. This year, I’m the one taking my two energetic toddlers across the globe. Am I crazy? Maybe. But I also know it’s an experience we’ll treasure forever.
To help you navigate this wild journey, I’ve put together a thorough list of 33 things to do before embarking on your international escapade with kids.
Documentation:
- Prepare Passports: Yes, this is the obvious first step. Apply for passports at least six weeks ahead. Remember, both parents must be present during the application process. If that’s not possible, ensure you have the proper documentation ready. Special situations, like divorce or military deployment, may require extra paperwork.
- Snacks at the Passport Office: Seriously, bring snacks. You’ll thank me later.
- Check for Visas: Verify if your destination requires visas for entry.
- Passport Copies: Once you get your passports, make copies of the photo pages. Store one set in your suitcase and give another to someone who isn’t traveling with you.
- US Consulate Information: Make a list of nearby US Consulates with their addresses and phone numbers. This is invaluable in case of emergencies.
- Contact List: Compile phone numbers of family and friends, and pack that list.
- Enroll in STEP: Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. It provides updates and alerts relevant to your travel plans.
Medical Preparations:
- Consult Your Pediatrician: Ask if any vaccinations or medications are needed before your trip. You can also check the CDC’s website for recommendations.
- Stock Up on Medications: Ensure you have all prescribed medications, including Epi-pens or inhalers.
- Bring Chewable Medications: Pack chewable versions of common over-the-counter meds. Many countries require prescriptions for items like Tylenol or Benadryl.
- Know Medication Reactions: Make sure you’re familiar with how your child reacts to any medications before the trip.
- Local Medical Resources: Research and list local doctors and hospitals near your accommodations.
- Band-aids Galore: Seriously, pack a lot of Band-aids.
- Allergy Snacks: Bring safe snacks for kids with allergies or sensitivities.
Clothing Considerations:
- Weather Check: Research the weather in your destination and pack accordingly.
- Cultural Attire: Be mindful of local dress codes. In conservative regions, long pants and covered shoulders are often required.
- Break in Shoes: Make sure your kids wear shoes that are well broken in to avoid complaints of sore feet.
- Swimwear: Always pack swimsuits; you never know when a pool or beach opportunity will arise.
- Extra Clothes: For long flights, have extra outfits ready for spills and accidents.
- Kids’ Backpacks: Let your kids carry their own snacks—trust me, they appreciate having their own stash.
- Sunscreen: No matter where you go, sunscreen should always make it into your bag.
Cultural Considerations and Laws:
- Local Holidays: Research any holidays or events that could affect your travel plans, such as closures or altered public transport schedules.
- Car Seat Regulations: Check the car seat laws in your destination country to determine whether you will need to bring one.
- Snack Etiquette: Be aware of cultural norms regarding eating in public, especially during fasting periods like Ramadan.
Itinerary and Accommodations:
- Detailed Planning: Create a comprehensive itinerary. But be prepared to improvise if language barriers complicate things.
- Plan Downtime: Kids can only handle so much sightseeing. Include breaks and kid-friendly activities.
- Family-Friendly Accommodations: Ensure your lodging is suitable for families—TripAdvisor can be helpful here.
- Hotel Snacks: Check if the hotel provides snacks; it can be a lifesaver!
Entertainment for Kids:
- Portable Chargers: Invest in good portable chargers to avoid meltdowns over dying devices.
- Electrical Adapters: Make sure to buy an adapter suitable for the outlets in your destination.
- Non-Electronic Activities: Pack a few non-digital activities to keep kids entertained in case of tech failures.
- Disposable Cameras: Let younger kids capture their memories with disposable cameras. Older ones might prefer a digital option.
- Snack Time: Don’t underestimate the power of snacks as entertainment—keep them handy!
If you remember nothing else from this list, don’t forget the snacks!
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Summary
Traveling abroad with kids can be a daunting task, but with the right preparations, it can also be an incredible experience. From ensuring all documentation is in order to considering cultural norms and packing sufficient entertainment, this list covers essential steps to help make your family trip enjoyable and memorable.
Keyphrase: Traveling Abroad with Kids
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