Stress-free vacation - here's how!

Summer is a great opportunity for families to explore together and get off the beaten track. However, traveling as a family can often be stressful and challenging. Here are some tips to help you plan a stress-free family vacation and create unforgettable memories.

Where should we travel?

Joint decisions. It is important that you involve your child in the decision-making process. Let them express their wishes and preferences and then you can choose the destination together. Every family member should be heard and respected. By finding a compromise that is acceptable to everyone, you can increase the anticipation of the trip and ensure that everyone is looking forward to it.

How should we prepare?

The key is organization. Good preparation is the key to a stress-free family trip. Make a list of things you need to take with you with your family. Pack well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Remember to check the weather at your destination and pack appropriate clothing and equipment. Don't forget to take important documents such as passports or vaccination records. Well-thought-out preparation will give you a feeling of security and calm.

The checklist for a more relaxed arrival and departure:

• Planning is key: allow enough time for travel to and from the destination. Children often need more time to get going and unexpected delays can occur.
• Snack box to go: Pack a snack box with your child's favorite snacks. Make sure you go shopping early enough. Especially during travel times, your child's favorite snacks may already be sold out.
• Drink enough: Make sure you have enough water or other drinks with you! It is especially important to drink enough in summer!
• Entertainment is important: Think of games that can keep your child entertained during the trip. Uno or "I see something you don't see" are good options. An iPad can also be a good entertainment option, but make sure it is not overused, as too much screen time can overstimulate your child.
• Plan enough breaks: Children often need breaks to move around and burn off energy. Plan regular stops to give them the opportunity to stretch and play.
• Comfort is important: Make sure your child wears comfortable clothes and has access to everything they might need for a pleasant journey, such as pillows, soft toys or blankets.
• Stay flexible: Sometimes the best-laid plans can be disrupted by unexpected events. Try to stay flexible and adapt to changes. Sometimes spontaneous ideas are the best ideas!
• Prepare your child: Talk to your child about the trip and what to expect. This can help ease any fears or concerns and prepare them for what lies ahead.
• Have important documents ready: Make sure you have all necessary documents, such as passports or vaccination records, ready.
• Hygiene items: Don’t forget to pack basic hygiene items like hand sanitizer, tissues or wet wipes.
• Pharmacy to go: Medicines and plasters are also a must for your next trip! Make sure you stock your first aid kit before you leave!
• When traveling by plane: Chewing gum is particularly useful when traveling by plane to relieve potential pressure on the ears.
• Stay positive: Traveling can be stressful, but try to stay positive and enjoy the experience. Your attitude can have a big impact on how your child perceives the trip.

What activities should we plan?

Quality over quantity. When planning activities during your family trip, it's important to choose quality over quantity. Think carefully about what activities will work best for your family and what memories you want to create. It can be tempting to overload the schedule with too many activities, but this can lead to stress and exhaustion. Instead, plan fewer activities and ones that you can really enjoy and that allow time for real connections and shared experiences.

Summertime is travel time!

With these tips and advice, you can plan less stressful family trips and have a wonderful time with your loved ones. Memories made during these trips will last a lifetime and strengthen your bond. So use the summer time to experience new adventures and grow together.