Planning for a Trip
Some of the parents I know would rather go for vacation as couples than bring their kids along. Frankly, I just don’t understand how they can enjoy themselves by leaving their kids behind? Unless it’s a honeymoon, then it’s pretty understandable. However, if the couples keep going on vacation without the kids, then I think they are not being fair with the kids.
Don’t tell me that younger kids can’t remember a thing about the trip and it’s a waste of money bring them along. They might not be able to recall all the events or know how to relate it, but it’s more about spending time as a family at special places and it’s a memorable family moments that all of you will cherish forever. Even if you baby may be whining on the plane, you miss your flight (I had this experience!), you didn’t get to visit all the tourist spots, and etc, but with proper planning, everyone will have a wonderful trip.
Planning is everything. If possible, I wouldn’t plan of a trip at peak season, unless it’s totally unavoidable. Just like my trip to Bali, we are going in August, and it’s one of the peak season. I could foresee that we might end up wasting time if we want to get around in free and easy style as most of the taxis will be occupied, so I got to have the trip planned out now to avoid major disappointment.
Packing is the second key point. I could suggest bring only the minimum baby stuffs and try to get from the local stores. For example, baby diapers, formula, baby clothes and etc. I don’t mind paying a bit more for some international branded baby products, as long as I can get them easily from the local stores, that will be fine to me.
Of course, you need to plan out your budget too. If you can find cheaper tickets such as Universal Studios Tickets, get them first before you go. Unless you are joining all inclusive trips, if not, you might be spending more than you plan for if you are traveling with kids.
Besides that, study the places you are visiting. Not every tourist spots are suitable for kids. Once, when we went to Bangkok, we went to the flea market for shopping. It’s really stuffy, smelly and hot. SIL brought along her 9 months old for the shopping and I tell you, she just can’t shop anything much. It’s not a nice place of baby to look around, and in fact, he just couldn’t stop complaining! So, if it’s not a right place for baby, then don’t go!
On top of that, make sure you bring along your kids important medication too. I always bring my kids to their paediatrician before any trip so that I know they are healthy for traveling. And if they are not feeling well, I already have the medication ready, or they will get some jabs first if it’s recommended.
BTW, check all your passports, visas, flight tickets, and accommodation. Make sure that everything is ready before you leave. And again. enjoy your family trip!
