Holiday traveling with children

Traveling around Europe can be intimidating with small children. Actually, it can be downright scary.

With holidays fast approaching, planning and preparation is key when it comes to vacationing with the family.

Jeanie Veith, Ramstein Travel and Tours group travel supervisor, encourages parents to choose trips that are age appropriate for their children.

“If possible, try to involve your children from the beginning,” Veith said. “This will allow them to be more involved with the trip and gain something from it. Preparing them in advance will make the trip easier and more enjoyable. It’s important to provide something for them to do that’s fun and to make adjustments for different age groups when choosing a trip for your family.”

There are many different modes of transportation when deciding on how to get where you want to go.

One thing for parents to consider when choosing the right transportation is to include proper seating arrangements. Most buses and airplanes only have lap belts where you will need the base to a rear-facing car seat to securely fasten in an infant.

To simplify packing, there are many pointers you can follow. In most places, there may not be a laundry facility readily available and hand washing is very time consuming. In most cases, children will need three to four times the outfits, playwear, sleepwear and accessories.

Among packing essentials, like plenty of diapers and wet wipes, there are some things everyone may not think to bring.

“A night light is something everyone may not think to bring for the bathroom,” Veith said.

Creating games your children don’t usually play can be fun and exciting.

“Rebuild the trip by looking at the memories — photographs, souvenirs and artifacts. (It) makes the trip really come alive for the children,” Veith said. “Another thing to remember: passports need to have a six-month validity period for traveling.”

Language barriers can also play a role in your travel plans. For example, in England if you ask for a “crib” you will receive a “cradle.” A “cot” is the term used for “crib.”

“I always recommend parents go to the website www.travel.state.gov because they have the countries listed and any requirements for documentation and immunizations can be found there,” Veith said.

Traveling for the holidays can be a rewarding experience for the entire
family. With the proper planning and preparation, the world is at your
fingertips.