Photo by Marion A.

Its that time of year, the time most families go on a vacation.  Maybe you have planned your trip, maybe not.  Maybe you’re taking a staycation this year.  Whatever the plans are, here are some ideas to plan your trip and make it somewhat sane.

First, you and your spouse need to decide how much your kids will participate in where to go

… if this has not already been done. Some families allow the kids to suggest places to go, where to stay, what to do and where to eat. Some families let each kid pick one thing to do. Some families don’t.

Use Websites, Maps And Travel Books To Decide What To Do Before You Get There.

Use the web to find out more about where you are going.  Do you want each child to plan a day? Or allow them to pick one thing they can choose on the trip? If your children are old enough, show them where you will be going and how long its going to take to get there. Show them maps of the area where you are staying and attractions (or relative’s houses) you will be going to.

Have Each Child Pack A Bag To Keep Them Entertained.

Whether you are flying, driving or taking the train, you can include mess-free coloring sets, books, stuffed animals and quiet toys.  Pack items your child has not seen in a while or new items such as coloring books. I love to hit clearance sections during the year and pick up items that may be good to keep the kids entertained.  I try to bring my laptop or a portable DVD player and a few favorite videos on the trip to keep them calm on diverted flights, in interstate traffic jams or when monsoon season begins in Florida and you’re all stuck in a 300 sq foot hotel room. We also have a family rule on vacation that any souvenirs my kids get have to go in their backpacks on the way home.

Discuss ground rules for behavior with your spouse and children before you arrive.

Will you allow your kids all the sugar they can eat? Are they expected to eat “no thank you” helpings at Grandma’s house? Do they still get time outs for inappropriate behaviors? Are they not allowed suggesting eating at restaurants that are available back home? Decide what rules you will (or won’t) relax and make it known.

Make a (loose) schedule.

If you are not going to an event such as a family reunion, plan what you want to do each day. It does not have to be hour by hour. For example, if you were going to Walt Disney World, you may say that day one is EPCOT, day two is Magic Kingdom, and so on.

Plan for the unexpected.

Make sure to pack basic medicine and first aid supplies. Items at hotel gift shops are very expensive, and its better to have your own painkillers than pay $2.00 for two Tylenols. Bring 1-3 more outfits than days you will be there, unless the room has a washer and dryer. If the weather isn’t going to hold, many larger hotels and resorts host activities for kids, find out when you check in and if there is a cost.

With a little planning, the bumps of travel can be made smoother.

For more of Jennifer’s travel misadventures, you can visit her at Toast on the Ceiling.