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Traveling with kids can be tough, especially when you have more than one. Forgetting just one thing can make the trip stressful. Here are 5 simple tips to make your journey smoother, along with examples of what I do to keep our family trips fun and easy.

1. Snacks: Healthy snacks are key to keeping kids happy and avoiding mood swings. Fresh and dried fruits or salty crepes are great options because they're nutritious, easy to carry, and not messy.
   ​WHAT I DO: I pack a small box with mixed nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, and cashews, plus a small box of cucumber and carrot sticks. I also bring a medium box of salty crepes (the full recipe will be available in next Wednesday’newsletter). These snacks give hydration, fiber, and energy, keeping your kids happy and full of energy.​
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2. Travel Light: Keeping your luggage minimal is essential when traveling with kids. It makes moving around easier and reduces the stress of managing multiple bags. ​
   ​WHAT I DO: You won't wear everything you bring, so pack only the essentials. For a 4-day trip, we take 2 backpacks and one small hand luggage. Here's what to pack: 4 sets of underwear, 2 pairs of pants each, 2 shirts each. If you run out of clothes, you can either wash it or buy something cheap at your destination than to overpack your suitcase.
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3. Fly During Nap/Sleeping Time: this is my favourite. Scheduling flights during your children’s nap or bedtime can make the journey more peaceful for everyone. Kids are less likely to become restless if they can sleep through a significant portion of the flight.
   ​WHAT I DO: If your child usually naps around 2 PM, book a flight that departs at 1:30 PM. This way, they are likely to fall asleep shortly after takeoff, giving you a chance to relax as well.
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4. Don’t Forget Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially for children. It helps them adjust to the dry airplane environment and stay active and alert when you arrive.
   ​WHAT I DO: I Bring a refillable water bottle for each child and I fill it up after passing through airport security. If your child is under 2, bring your own water. Encourage your kids to take regular sips throughout the flight, even if they don't feel thirsty, to avoid discomfort and crankiness.
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5. Engage in Activities: To keep children entertained and prevent boredom during long trips, consider packing engaging activities.
   ​WHAT I DO: I bring along a small coloring, stickers and activity book, and a set of crayons. This simple trick can keep them busy for hours, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

By following these tips, your family can enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience.

Until next wednesday with the salty crepes recipe!

Paternaut