Travel with the Kids!

For those of us who traveled in our childhood, many of us probably did not see what a privilege it really is.

I remember how exciting each part of going abroad was as an elementary student. From getting a stamp in a passport to going through security, traveling as a child was more than an adventure. Toting the carefully packed carry-on back pack was also a thrill for those first trips across the ocean.

It was always exciting to walk the runway and board the plane. While we were not always as warmly greeted by fellow passengers, it was well worth the snobbish looks to squeal over the window seat.

From take-off to landing, the travel part was the most exciting part of the whole trip. For children, a trip to another country can be incredibly educational and inspirational, as well as exciting.

For parents, on the other hand, the idea of children crossing an ocean can be quite frightening.

It can also be a tough call for traveling parents on whether or not to bring the children. Young children, under the age of 5 can often be a source of headaches for both the parents and other passengers aboard the plane. In fact, most of the memories of the trip will not be retained for children under 5.

So when is it worth it to bring the little ones?

It typically depends on the purpose of the trip. If the traveling involves seeing close relatives, it doesn't hurt to bring the little ones along. They may be a bit of a pain to travel with, but they will also be welcomed and cherished by the relatives they are going to visit.

If the trip is more of a tourism adventure, it may be wise to leave little ones at home with a trusted adult.

When children are above the age of 5 however, this rule bends quite a bit.

School aged children are generally more responsible and easier to deal with while traveling. There are of course, still going to be bumps and moments of turbulence along the way, but it will also be a great growing experience for the child.

The hassles involved with traveling with your children are pretty typical. Caring for them as they are motion sick always requires a few extra hands. Parents also often run into extra stress when the children have to go to the bathroom at all the wrong moments.

It is a good idea for parents to keep all the tickets, passports and flight information in one neat folder. This information should obviously always be kept in the same pocket so that parents have quick access.

It is also a good idea for parents to do a trial trip before flying. Taking a road trip will help you realize how sick your children will become from the motion. There are plenty of over the counter medicines that can be taken for flights that will help the kids prevent feeling nauseas and be able to sleep throughout the flight.

The recommended age for traveling children is three and above. When the kids are out of diapers, can eat real food and can talk. This way the children can communicate with their parents throughout the journey.

If you are hoping to make the trip a special memory for your children, it is wise to wait until they are at least 8-10. This way, they will be able to take their own pictures and journal about the experience. They will also be able to create more of their personal memories.

Benefits of traveling youth are the life skills they will gain from traveling. Children learn to be flexible and appreciate world cultures. It is also a great way to bond with your children as they gain new perspectives and experiences.

Be careful though, once you travel abroad with your children, they may develop a bug for it and want to continue to travel abroad throughout their adult lives!