HG Openhouse Blog

We just got back from a quick Florida vacation with our two kids (ages 4 and 8).  We visited with in-laws and spent a couple days at Disney, so we pretty much lived out of suitcases for 4 days.

So while it’s fresh in my mind, here are a few travel tips for those bravely heading out for the holidays with dependents in tow.

Packing:

• If you have access to laundry, take advantage of it and bring fewer clothes.
• If the kids are old enough, have each person bring their own carry-on bag of everything they will need. You won’t have to pay for checked luggage, and each kid will be more likely to take responsibility for their stuff (in theory, at least!).
• Bring a small purse, and carry it inside a larger tote bag for the flight. It will handily fit magazines and other travel needs while allowing you to use your cute purse while you’re at your destination.  Beats lugging an oversized purse everywhere.
• Keep a clip board for all travel documents – it fits nicely inside your tote bag and is quickly accessible.  Bonus: you’ll appear uber organized!

Air Travel:

• If traveling with kids, limit the number of travel toys. Foot room is at a premium on flights, and it’s incredibly difficult to reach anything under the seat during flight without bumping your head!  And if the person in front of you reclines, you are doomed! A simple pad of paper and markers can accommodate many forms of entertainment. Less is more here!
• Escape the cooties! Keep antibacterial gel handy (under 3 oz), but remember to put it in a quart-sized Ziploc bag and take it out of your bag before going through security (I got scolded for that one).   While you’re at it, bring some wipes to clean up your sitting area when flying.  I heard a lot of coughing and sneezing on our flights!
• Bring snacks and water on the plane. Peanuts only go so far and the beverage cart is unpredictable. Speaking of beverages…be sure to visit the lavatory BEFORE the beverage cart gets rolling so you don’t get stuck in the aisle.

Are you traveling for the holidays this year?  Please share what has worked for you!