5 tips for a safe, fun Spring Break family trip

Posted in Health & Wellness on March 4, 2013

Are you planning on taking your family on vacation for Spring Break this year? You will not be alone. According to predictions by the U.S. Travel Association, leisure trips by Americans are expected to increase by 1.3% this year.

Traveling with kids can be stressful if you aren’t prepared to meet their needs during the long trip ahead. If you’re lucky, the worst you will hear is “Are we there yet?”

But bored kids aren’t the only thing you have to worry about. Weather, broken-down vehicles and stolen valuables are all things you need to think about ahead of time if you want to be able to relax and have fun on your trip.

Here are five tips to help you and your family have a safe, fun trip this Spring Break:

1)      Prepare for the weather. Even if you are going to an area of the country that is known for warmer weather, it is possible they could have a stretch of colder weather this time of year. So while you are packing those tank tops and shorts, don’t forget to include some clothes suitable for slightly cooler weather.

2)      Be prepared to travel. If you are driving to your vacation destination, make sure your vehicle has been checked and all maintenance is up-to-date. Make sure you have enough snacks and entertainment to satisfy your kids during your long drive.

3)      Make your trip educational. Of course, you want your vacation to be fun and relaxing for you and your kids. But why not mix in a little education while you are having fun. A vacation doesn’t have to be an endless string of stops at expensive entertainment venues. Talk about the history of the area. Make a stop at some of the museums or historical sites near your destination.

4)      Keep your home safe while you are gone. Make sure you stop the mail and newspaper delivery, or have a friend or family member pick them up for you. Lock all doors and windows securely. To make your house look lived-in, set a timer to turn your lights on and off at regular times. Don’t broadcast on social media that you are gone for a week. Even if you think your posts are private, you never know who might see it and take advantage.

5)      Stay safe on the road. We saved the most important for last. Don’t let your excitement about being on vacation make you forget all the safety precautions you normally take. Keep your kids in sight. Don’t leave your wallet and other valuables lying around in the open. In fact, leave most of your valuables (like jewelry or high-end electronics) at home. Talk with your kids ahead of time so they know what is expected of them.

A little planning ahead of time will help make sure you can relax and unwind and enjoy yourself on your vacation.