Consider a villa when staying at a resort
We love a good villa. And Montemarano says villa accommodations at a resort are ideal for families. “A villa at a resort allows the family their own private, indoor space for gathering, along with outdoor space including a pool, lounge areas and their own kitchen to prepare quick meals or arrange for a chef to come and prepare a meal,” she says. And it’s a boon with babies or toddlers: While they nap, for instance, the rest of the fam can hang by the pool, she says.
Opt for the private tour
Whether you’re visiting a museum or trying a new activity, consider going private. “Private tours allow for the flexibility at time of touring, if the family wishes to stay longer or shorter in any one location,” says Montemarano. “It also allows for the guide to customize the tour based on the kids’ ages, interests, dietary needs and preferred time of day.”
Pack snacks—all the snacks (Plus a few more must-haves, like headphones)
Veteran parent (and advisor!) tip: Stock up on all.the.snacks. “Pack snacks they prefer,” says Montemarano. “It may be challenging to find things they like at the airport or in your destination.” Other ideas? “Pack new, small toys or items that you can take out slowly on the flights to buy time and keep their interest,” she advises. A traveling medical kit and an extra set of clothes are also smart, Baik says. Toronto-based F1S advisor Derrick Bloch strongly recommends headphones, particularly for long-haul flights, so your child’s devices don’t disturb other travelers—or you. And don’t forget their go-to comfort item. “Whether it be their favorite blanket or stuffed animal,” says Baik. “Something that reminds them of home.”
Make time for rest
“Plan your trip, but don’t overdo it,” advises King. When traveling with kids, she recommends leaving lots of time before flights, tours, experiences—and for the unexpected meltdown. “It’s nice to plan activities, but too much is too tiring,” she says. Plus, she recommends taking time to enjoy the facilities at the hotel, too. “Everyone needs downtime,” she says, both kids and (maybe more so?) their parents.
