Nothing like a pandemic to help you not take things for granted, right? Life is too short to wait until your kids are older to travel. Start now! You might be surprised at how completely doable and rewarding it is!
Here I am to tell you the why. And as for the how, you ask? Take a look at my 15 Secrets To Traveling With Your Baby or Toddler. But trust me – I do NOT claim to be an expert, by any means. I don’t think anything parent-related can truly be mastered.
I’ve been able to visit some places both pre-baby and post-baby, and I’ve never thought I’d say this (because my pre-baby vacations were awesome), but the post-baby trips were even better. Here’s why:
1. You’ll see the world in a whole new light
…an innocent, non-judgmental, childlike, joyful light – did you get all that? Sometimes I take this beautiful world for granted. But getting to see the “wow” on our toddler’s face has made me appreciate these landscapes and landmarks that much more.
(either that or a big yawn!)
2. You’ll create unforgettable new experiences and memories as a family
…which sure beats any toy they’ll ever have…well, almost any.
3. They’ll learn about the world and get to try new things
…I know, two things in one here. They will learn more than they ever would from any book or show. Languages, customs, cultures, landmarks, people, umm how to behave, haha.
They will get to try new foods, activities, parks, and more. I think this has also made our LO more adaptable in general, by being exposed to different surroundings and schedules (or lack thereof).
(maybe squid ink here?)
in San Sebastian, Spain
4. It might be easier than you think
Might be. Ha.
No, seriously though, I have been surprised that travel with kids is easier than I anticipated. They really are more adaptable and resilient than you think. And the earlier you start, I think the easier it may be for them to adapt and enjoy the ride.
5. You’ll be more relaxed on vacation to truly enjoy them
…you’re off work with no cooking, shopping, cleaning, blah blah blah, leaving you with more time and energy to have fun with your kiddos. It gives you more opportunity to be that fun, care-free parent that we all want to be. Well, I’ll speak for myself I guess.
6. It’s a rewarding challenge
…because let’s face it, it can be at times. But it only makes the pay-off that much sweeeeeeeeter!!! Like, “wow, we really did that! We can do anything! ” Working as a team only made our relationship stronger.
7. The pictures are just priceless…
And real moments, not staged or posed. Happy. In-the-moment. Attached to unforgettable memories. Hopefully one day our kids will look back at our photo albums and think, “Awesome… my parents took me there!?”
8. They will bring out the kid in you
… as well as a certain joy. Just like when you take your kids to Disneyland. Happy kids, happy parents. I also do a better job now looking for fun, adventurous things to do that I know the little ones will enjoy too.
And their excitement is contagious!
9. Family perks anyone? Um, yes, please!
…boarding early, more leg room with bulkhead seats, quicker “family” lines, family discounts, hotel room upgrades, more help with luggage, and so forth. While there are those who frown upon kids, you also have those people who are very helpful to families with kids.
10. Some people and cultures love babies and toddlers
…Especially in parts of Europe, people are more friendly toward babies and kids than what we are accustomed to in the US. The kindness and endearment we have received is just heart-warming. I’d have to say the sweetest responses have been from older Italian women. They are too cute when they see the little babies.
If you still aren’t convinced to venture out there and travel with your little ones, check out my 3 Most Important Things To Know Before Traveling With Your Baby or Toddler. It may give you a better idea of what you are in for.
Or maybe start with something small or local? Check out my Destinations page for some inspiration.