Going on a family vacation to Europe is a wonderful and exciting opportunity to grow closer and experience rich history and culture together as a team. Although traveling is a beautiful luxury and opportunity to step away from day to day life, it can also come with its challenges, particularly when kids are involved.
Since it can be quite a costly trip between airfare, lodging, day to day expenses, and the conversion of currency, it’s ideal to make it go as smoothly as possible. Failing to prepare ahead of time can result in your trip being stressful.
In order to prepare you and your family properly and have the best possible trip checking out the wonders of Europe, follow these tips.
Rent a Car
Although you may want to take the train for some portions of the trip, in more rural areas you will want to have a car at your disposal. When you’re traveling with children, you aren’t always able to meet deadlines and timetables as well as you’d like. Therefore, being able to get around at your leisure takes off a lot of pressure.
If you do rent a car, make sure that you familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws. For example, you’ll want to determine which side of the road to drive on so that you avoid getting into dangerous accidents.
Bring Plenty of Activities
Although there will be plenty of sights to see during the day, the evening can be tricky with kids. While the adults want to sit back and relax, kids need to be entertained. Make sure to bring plenty of activities to keep them occupied during your downtime.
These activities will also come in handy for when you’re flying long periods of time. Make sure that you stock up on different activities for the way home since they may already be tired of the ones you brought initially.
Be Prepared For Jet Lag
Depending on where you live in the United States, you could have as much of a time difference as twelve hours once you arrive in Europe. Remember to give yourself a few days to adjust to the time change.
During the first few days, you may be completely disoriented and confused. When it’s night in your body and day in the sky, it can throw off your entire well-being.
When kids are involved, it can be particularly tricky since they can be harder to keep in bed. Just try to remain patient and give it a few days.
Pack Lightly
Since you may be moving around a lot and there are several of you, you should try to pack as lightly as possible. Hauling around large bags while trying to navigate with small children only adds to the chaos. You’re better off packing minimally and buying anything you need once you arrive.
