Winter Family Travel Advice
Regardless of your means of travel things can go wrong whether it is weather delays or a flat tire, so you should be prepared for the worst during the winter. Keeping your family safe and warm no matter how you are getting to your winter land destination will leave you with a less stressful trip, as well as a happier family.
Flying
When traveling by plane be sure to keep documentation needed during your travels together in a secure place like a zipped compartment in your handbag or backpack. You need to keep on your person:
- personal identification
- boarding pass
- confirmation number
- luggage information
- all of the above for your children
This should be handy so you can move quickly through lines without digging around in a bag. This will also let you quickly double check that you have all necessary documents with you. Each piece of luggage that you are traveling with should be clearly labeled with your contact information as well as with some type of marker. I chose to attach bright orange ribbon on each of my bags so I can clearly distinguish them on the luggage carousel. Since flights may be delayed due to weather and you may end up having to stay the night near an airport be sure to pack a change of clothes for everyone along with a coat, gloves, blanket, and any necessary medication. Having an extra change of clothes is a good idea whenever traveling in case your luggage is misplaced or delayed.
Driving
Road trips are often a perfect opportunity to bond during a family vacation, however they are accompanied by extra risks during the winter, which should be accounted for while packing. Road delays may significantly extend your travel time so be sure to pack extra books or battery operated games for entertainment. Snacks are another necessity during long car trips. Also be sure that there are blankets, gloves, and coats packed for each passenger. It may be in your best interest to bring a car phone charger or a battery operated phone charger in case you get stuck.
Riding
When traveling aboard a train it is just as important to take care of your travel documents as it if you were flying. Be sure to keep some information about hotels near major stations in case you get stuck due to winter weather delays. Pack a cozy sweater for everyone as well as some extra snacks and entertainment.
Following these packing tips will help you get your family vacation started off right. Easing the stress of traveling will set the right tone for your trip and enable you to relax and enjoy some family time.
