Plane, Train, Auto, or Other? - Thoughts on Travel TransportationAre we there yet? If you are reading this, you're likely a parent; if you are a parent, you've heard this before! Save yourself and your kids some grief by traveling with a few tricks up your sleeve whatever your travel transportation plans. PlanesChildren get restless when they fly. Make sure they know what lies ahead if it is there first time flying. Flying (like so many things) with kids goes more smoothly when children understand what to expect. We recommend doing something at the airport before the flight to burn some kid energy off (walk around while you wait, check out planes, enjoy the luxury of personal space). Kai and I go to the bathroom at least twice before boarding. You know how kids are.Save yourself some lugging by checking your luggage before parking, or get a ride to the airport (I always offer to return the favor). If you have an infant, toddler, or both, consider bringing a car seat for them. You can probably rent them at your destination site along with a rental car (check when reserving the car), but if you have a light weight carrier, and it doesn't create too much peril, you'll be glad you brought your own. Some recommend purchasing a separate seat for young children (even if the airline doesn't require it) since it is safest for them to be strapped in. Sometimes, though, flights have extra seats that you could use (just ask an attendant). It's totally your call. You probably already employ your own boredom distraction tactics, so bring those along. In addition, plan something extra if your flight is lengthy. We like drawing, reading, watching movies, leap pads, playing hangman and other compact games (paper and cool pens go far with us). Consider purchasing something new to entertain your children and surprise them with it when a diversion is most needed. Even several small surprises. Water. Remember to drink plenty of it. You can usually get extra bottles from the attendant. You will all feel better upon landing and start your vacation adventure ready if you are well hydrated! TrainsKids love trains, and I don't know about you, but I love the break from driving and the added space not available when flying. All this makes for more relaxed vacation time and more one-on-one with your kids. Let them help you map out the trip details while riding the rails. Amtrak is THE American interstate train option. Check out their "Hot Deals." In Europe, Rail Europe is a great way to add several countries to your passports. If you have other rail travel suggestions, please let us know!AutomobilesWhether you're traveling in your own car or spending sometime in a rental, time on the road equals bored little ones. Music, games, and toys are essential. Also, we always travel with water and a variety of snacks.During bathroom breaks, get the kids to run around a little by chasing them around or whatever you like to do for fun. Get the circulation back in your legs with some roadside yoga. Give yourself a break, break up the driving as much as possible. Public TransportationKai prefers public transportation, maybe because he's a budding environmentalist. It can be tricky, so try to get maps and schedules ahead of time and let the most map adept person in the family do the reading. It's a skill worth learning even though GPS threatens to eliminate it. It often takes longer to travel by public transportation. If your on vacation though, why not slow down a little.
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