The Unconventional Traveler: How I Learned to Travel Right with My Daughter
Since my daughter was a baby, we’ve prioritized travel. When she was young, we did smaller visits to neighboring states or staycations in the city. As she got older, a little more adaptable, and our family gained more comfort with traveling, we ventured farther — hitting up the majors like Disneyland and Universal Studios Orlando. In our latest adventure, we went international. After so much traveling, and a recent trip to French Polynesia, as a mom, I feel like I’ve gained so much wisdom when it comes to how to travel (and travel right) because kids change everything.
Unconventional Travel Rules for the Win
I’ve compiled eleven unconventional travel rules for our family that I’ve implemented after so many trips and so many mistakes. These rules have been a game-changer for our family, and I’m excited to share them with you. From avoiding homework during trips to booking private car services, these rules have helped us navigate the challenges of family travel with ease.
Rule 1: No Homework During the Trip
I realize that this isn’t a super hot take, but when your kid has missed a lot of school, people get a little judgmental. Before I take my daughter out of school for a trip, I always email her teacher well in advance, notifying her about the future absence, noting that we do not plan to do any homework on the trip. Not once has one of her teachers balked. I don’t want to waste their time gathering a bunch of assignments or reading, and I don’t want to do it while I’m trying to relax on the beach!
Rule 2: Learn Key Phrases in the Local Language
There is truly nothing worse than showing up in a new country, and you don’t understand anything in their native language, but you expect them to understand English. The wild thing is that most people from other countries, especially those with high tourism, do speak some English. And there we’re over here with zero to speak back. Going forward, if we’re heading somewhere where English isn’t the primary language, we’re learning key phrases before we show up. That way, we’re not using Google Translate at the restaurant, looking like the poster child for what everyone thinks Americans actually are like.
Rule 3: Book a Private Car Service for Airport Pickups
After so many trips to and from the airport, I now know in my heart of hearts that I do not want to have to wait for a ride at the airport after a long trip. I don’t want to lug all the luggage and my kid to the ride-share area of the airport. I also don’t want to be stuck in the back seat of my father-in-law’s car as he drives half the speed limit home. I want a professional driver with a nice car to come pick us up curbside. For the past few trips, I’ve booked a car through Blacklane, and it’s changed my life. They’re always on time with great communication, and I never have to worry about anything.
Rule 4: Don’t Schedule Trips Around School Breaks
If it makes sense in our calendar, we’re booking the flight. My husband works weekends, so traveling during the week actually works a lot better for us. Prices go up during school breaks because airlines and lodging facilities know demand is going to skyrocket. In fact, we usually avoid going anywhere during school breaks because of crowds and cost.
Rule 5: Book Red-Eye Flights
Listen, you might not sleep in economy, but your kids will! On a recent trip, my daughter slept most of the time. Plus, an 8-hour flight feels ten times shorter when your kid is not asking you for snacks constantly. It’s also a great way to avoid an entire day dedicated to travel. Also, I prefer the quiet of the airport at night as opposed to the loud rush of the morning.
Rule 6: Read Every Night Before Bed
Now, I know I said we don’t do school work while we’re on trips, but best believe we’re all reading. As a bookworm, I’m getting in a good slice of reading anywhere I can, but especially at night, I’m reading with my daughter before bed. Not only do we stick to this because I want to keep her mind fresh, but it’s great to keep at least something from our bedtime routine from home.
Rule 7: Everyone Packs Their Own Bags
I give my little one a list (ie, 6 pants, 7 shirts, etc.), and she packs her own bag. This not only teaches her responsibility but also helps me avoid having to pack for two people.
Rule 8: Use a Travel Agent
My entire outlook on travel changed after I finally decided to utilize the totally underutilized source of a travel agency. Tahiti Tourisme helped make the planning feel way less overwhelming. They’re always on time with great communication, and I never have to worry about anything.
Rule 9: Avoid Peak Season
We usually avoid going anywhere during peak season because of crowds and cost. If we can, we try to go during the off-season or during the week when prices are lower.
Rule 10: Foster Independence
These trips are for fun and adventure, of course, but why not also take these trips as an opportunity to foster independence? I give my daughter small tasks to complete during the trip, such as navigating the airport or ordering food at a restaurant. This not only helps her build confidence but also gives me a break.
In conclusion, these unconventional travel rules have been a game-changer for our family. From avoiding homework during trips to booking private car services, these rules have helped us navigate the challenges of family travel with ease. By implementing these rules, you can make your next family adventure stress-free and enjoyable for everyone. So, the next time you’re planning a trip with your family, consider these unconventional travel rules and make your next adventure one to remember.
