So you’ve booked a place on a warm sandy beach somewhere far, far away from the icy tundra of home. You can almost taste that tropical drink in your hand as you sip quietly by the pool, your kids splashing happily nearby.
It’s a beautiful thought isn’t it?
Spring Break is just around the corner and the promise of some sunshine is helping you get through the unending grey days of late winter but before you hit the road or take off, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got everything ready for your trip.
Spring Break Travel With Kids Prep
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Complete a Vacation Planner
Having all your plans in one place ensures your trip starts out with a success. Organize all your trip details and check off the big items on your vacation check list, plus when you fill out a planner, you’re ensuring you don’t accidentally forget to book something!
Grab my free One Hour Vacation Planner and get your whole trip organized in less time than it takes to watch an episode of The Crown.
Write Your Packing List
Nothing ruins your spring break trip faster than finally making it to your warm and sunny destination only to discover that your bathing suit is tucked neatly in your drawer at home. Or ask me about the time I forgot the kids’ winter coats on a hiking trip in November! Packing lists are your best friend when it comes to making sure you don’t miss something for your trip.
Type one up on your computer, handwrite your list or grab one from Pinterest. There’s lots of ways to make your list, but make sure you take time to think through your whole week so you have everything you need for your spring break adventure!
Related Post: Family Travel Gear You Might Not Think to Pack
Plan Your Route
If you’re road tripping for spring break, it’s worth looking for some fun stops along the way. After all, that’s part of the appeal of a road trip. Check your route for state or local parks, funny roadside attractions or even a unique restaurant. There’s lots of ways to include quick and unique stops that add some adventure to your trip.
And if you’re flying, think about your transportation needs by planning all the way from your front door to your destination. Make sure to arrange any transfers, rental cars etc.
Related Post: How to Plan Fun Stops On Your Road Trip
Prep Your Kids
Kids are great travelers…if they know what to expect. Make sure to spend some time talking with your kids about your trip and what they might expect to see, especially if there are parts they haven’t done before.
Prep some fun activities for the journey. This list of our favorite toys for traveling is a great place to start but you might also think about checking out some books about your destination or your travel mode (ie airplanes, highways, train) to help get your kids ready for the trip.
Related Post: Best Family Travel Games (That Can Also Be Played At Home)
Capture Memories
When you finally arrive, you’ll want to make sure you have a great way to capture those special travel memories. I love our Sony Alpha a6000 camera for really good pictures and being a little smaller than a typical DSLR. Even a good point and shoot camera can capture great shots and don’t underestimate your phone’s camera. With this add-on lens kit for iPhone, you can use your phone in new ways and get some really creative photos.
Bottom line, make sure you have something you’re comfortable using and that you charge your devices and pack extra charging cables and batteries so you don’t miss any memories.
How to Prep for Spring Break Travel with Kids
Whether you’re heading to a nearby city for a long weekend or hitting the beach for a week of sun soaking, these spring break with kids prep tips will make sure you are ready to go. Plus there’s a cute little umbrella topped drink waiting for you to reward all your hard work.
Pin for Later
Where are you headed for Spring Break this year? What’s the hardest part of getting ready for trips with your kids? Leave your comments below.
Packing list is key! We go to the beach 3x a year and I mistakenly thought I could wing it last time… I forgot swim suits.
I’ve been there! We had to buy winter coats for one trip and another trip involved flip flops for half the family.