How to prepare for a trip with children?

For many parents, traveling with a child is a pleasant and exciting experience, providing a lot of positive emotions. However, for some moms and dads, it becomes a real challenge. Why does this happen? It's simple! Not everyone knows how to properly prepare for a trip so that it goes smoothly, calmly, and pleasantly for both the adult and the little traveler. This article presents the main "rules" for organizing a comfortable weekend for the whole family.

First and foremost, you need to set the right mood for yourself and engage your child in the upcoming trip, thus "programming" them for the right behavior and attitude towards what is happening. Tell them how interesting and exciting the upcoming trip will be for them. What they will be able to see, for example, new types of fish that are not found in the area where they live. With older children, it's much easier because you can ask them about the places they would like to visit. Be sure to include these locations in your tour list. Remember, a properly motivated child for the trip guarantees a comfortable, light, and pleasant journey.

What do we recommend preparing for a trip with children?

1. Proper and comfortable clothing.

Check the weather forecast for the days when the weekend is planned and choose the appropriate wardrobe. You may need everything - from swimsuits and sunscreen to raincoats and warm sweaters.

2. Favorite toys.

For babies, this might be a pacifier or a soft toy they are used to sleeping with. For older children, it could be a Rubik's cube or a stress ball.

3. Medicines.

Basics: paracetamol/ibuprofen, nasal aspirator (for children under 3 years old), nasal drops, ear drops, remedies for intoxication, allergy medications, etc. If your child has serious illnesses, double-check that you have their individual medications.

4. Personal hygiene products.

Toothbrushes, toothpaste, baby shampoo, wet and dry wipes, diapers - must-haves for the trip!

5. Games and videos.

The simplest and most practical option is a gadget with downloaded audiobooks, games, cartoons. You can also take compact board games with you. They easily fit into a small bag without taking up too much space. Upon arrival, don’t assume the child is interested in just swimming all day. They also need other entertainment: attractions, water parks, interactive museums, etc.

6. Snacks and food.

If the child is not breastfeeding, take enough baby formula and a bottle. You can bring a small thermos with hot water to prepare the formula in the bus. Also, plan some snacks - cookies, crackers, vegetables/fruits, etc.

7. Baby carriers and strollers.

If you are traveling with infants, we recommend taking slings or baby carriers. They take up little space in the suitcase but are indispensable helpers for parents during the trip. If the trip is long, a stroller might be necessary.

Have you prepared the top important items? Then it's time to pack them in the suitcases!

What are the free baggage limits for children?

We remind you that currently, one passenger can carry baggage weighing:

1. Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia - 30 kg (divided into 2 bags, each not exceeding 15 kg, measuring 90x60x40cm) and one hand luggage up to 5 kg;

2. Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg - 40 kg (divided into 2 bags, each not exceeding 20 kg, measuring 90x60x40cm) and one hand luggage up to 5 kg. An additional charge for each extra kg is 1.8 EUR/kg.

If the child is under 6 years old, they are entitled to the following free baggage allowance:

1. half the baggage, i.e., 1 suitcase weighing: Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia - 15 kg; Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg - 20 kg.

2. a stroller, but then the child's baggage is not counted.

For children aged 6 to 15, the baggage allowance is the same as for adults:

Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia - 30 kg (divided into 2 bags, each not exceeding 15 kg, measuring 90x60x40cm) and one hand luggage up to 5 kg;

Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg - 40 kg (divided into 2 bags, each not exceeding 20 kg, measuring 90x60x40cm) and one hand luggage up to 5 kg. An additional charge for each extra kg is 1.8 EUR/kg.

How to pack compactly to fit everything?

Shoes can be used as "cases" for fragile items (watches, glasses, etc.) and accessories. Clothes should be rolled up instead of stacked. This way, clothes almost don't wrinkle and take up less space.

Chargers and headphones should be laid out not in a twisted or rolled state but in a straight position along the sides of the bag/suitcase. A travel compression sack is an excellent replacement for disposable diaper bags or items that are sensitive to moisture. Put the items in and roll them tightly, squeezing out excess air.

To prevent spills of cosmetic products and other substances in bottles, open the caps, cover the openings with plastic wrap, and screw the caps back on. Save space in the first aid kit by taking medicines without the box, only the instructions and the blister. If you attach a "FRAGILE" tag to the suitcase, the baggage is more likely to be handled carefully.