15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation

Planning for a vacation can be as exciting as the trip itself, but the day before departure is crucial to set yourself up for smooth sailing. There are some essential tasks you need to complete so you can jet off stress-free and make the most of your getaway. Here are 15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation:

Double-Check Your Travel Documents

Ensure your passport, ID, and travel tickets are packed and up-to-date. Print physical copies even if you’ve gone digital—a backup never hurts. If you’re traveling internationally, confirm visa requirements and entry restrictions. I always email myself a copy of important documents just in case they get lost while we’re traveling.

Confirm Your Reservations

Revisit all your bookings, from flights and hotels to rental cars and excursions. Double-check dates, times, and addresses. This ensures everything is set and helps avoid any last-minute surprises when you arrive. I also write down departure locations for all tours I’m taking.

Charge Your Electronics and Pack Chargers

Fully charge your phone, tablet, laptop, and power bank. Organize your chargers, adapters, and accessories in a dedicated pouch. A dead device while traveling can disrupt your plans—stay powered up and ready.

Prepare Your Home for Your Absence

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February 10, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

Surviving Airport Security with Kids

We’ve all seen those parents that, after going through airport security with kids, look like they’ve walked through a hurricane. Their hair is disheveled, belt half off, arms full of clothes, and a crying kiddo following behind them. Ok…so most of us have BEEN those people and it’s not fun at all. All of this craziness can usually be avoided with a bit of planning.

Here are 10 tips for surviving airport security with kids:

HAVE THE TALK

Um…no…not THAT talk. Talk to your kiddos about what to expect when going through security. Better yet…show them. Grab a carry-on bag, pretend your kitchen table is the security area, and walk them through exactly what happens. Show them they may need to take off their shoes (depending on where you’re traveling) and that they’ll have to let go of Teddy for a few minutes as he takes a fun ride through a magic machine. Get them involved with the simulation so they feel prepared.

LIQUIDS

It floors me that people are still bringing full size bottles through airport security. An easy way to remember the rule is 3-1-1: 3.4 oz bottles or less for all liquids, gels, and aerosols; placed in a 1-quart clear plastic bag; per 1 person. Security could care less how much your shampoo costs. If it is over 3.4 oz they will take it and it will hold up the line. (I learned the hard way that DRY shampoo is actually a liquid…no matter how much I begged.)

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February 3, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

How to Get Over Jetlag

Jetlag can be a nuisance when you’re chasing new adventures, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Whether you’re hopping time zones for business or pleasure, here’s how to get over jetlag quickly and get back to enjoying the journey.

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Before You Travel

One of the best ways to minimize jetlag is to start adjusting your internal clock before your trip. If you’re traveling east, go to bed an hour earlier each night for a few days. If you’re heading west, stay up a bit later. This gradual shift helps your body acclimate to the new time zone. Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to simulate nighttime when your new destination’s clock says it’s time to sleep.

Stay Hydrated

Flying dehydrates you, and dehydration makes jetlag worse. Keep a water bottle handy and sip regularly—especially on long-haul flights. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can mess with your sleep and leave you feeling more drained. Hydration is key to keeping your body’s rhythms in check, so make drinking water a priority before, during, and after your flight.

Sync With the Local Time Zone ASAP

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January 8, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation

Traveling is an adventure, but those expenses can add up fast. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Here are 15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation:

Travel Off-Season

One of the simplest ways to save on vacation costs is to travel during the off-season. Peak travel times, like summer or holidays, come with inflated prices for flights, hotels, and attractions. Choose a less popular time of year to visit your destination and you’ll find lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience. Do some research and pick the shoulder season when the weather is still good, but costs are significantly lower.

Book Flights in Advance

Booking your flight early is one of the easiest ways to snag a better deal. Generally, the best time to book is between one to three months ahead for domestic trips and three to six months for international travel. Be flexible with your travel dates and use tools like flight comparison websites and apps to monitor prices and set alerts for price drops. Plus, flying mid-week rather than on weekends can often save you money.

Use Public Transportation

Instead of hailing cabs or using rideshare apps, take advantage of public transportation whenever possible. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a great way to see the city from a local’s perspective. One of my favorite memories of Portugal when I was younger was riding the bus and being immersed in the culture. It’s a great way to practice the language. Most cities offer day passes or multi-ride tickets that save you even more. If you’re traveling in Europe, look into using intercity trains and bus services which are often more cost-effective than flights.

Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation

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May 22, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

15 Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Traveling solo can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind at all times. About a month before my solo trip to Puerto Rico I began to get really anxious. We’re talking, “What the heck am I thinking? Should I cancel this trip?” Then I reminded myself that women do this every day and as long as I plan ahead, stay alert, and remain level-headed, I could do this. As a solo traveler, you are responsible for your own safety, and it’s important to take precautions to avoid any potential dangers. Here are 15 safety tips for solo travelers.

Research Your Destination

Before you leave, research your destination thoroughly. Look up any safety concerns and read about any recent incidents or crime reports. Are there areas you should avoid?

Stay in a Safe Area

Choose accommodation in a safe area, preferably with good reviews from other travelers. Avoid areas that are known for crime or that have a high rate of theft. Once I’ve decided on a hotel, I looked on blogs and TripAdvisor and emailed people with safety questions I had. As for the hotel, is there a 24-hour front desk? Is there a doorman or security on duty all night? I like to bring a door lock and alarm.

Avoid Walking Alone, Especially at Night

If possible, avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas that are unfamiliar to you. If you want to explore an area, take a peek HERE to find a reputable tour.

Use Trusted Transportation

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February 13, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

40 Useful Items for a Cruise

The items I packed for a cruise were so different from the things I usually pack for a trip. It was exciting getting to research and shop for items I don’t usually buy. You know me…I asked everyone’s opinions and read lots of blogs to see what I would need. I bought some and borrowed some, and am so thankful for all the recommendations. Here are 40 useful items for a cruise:

Luggage Tag Holders

You check your luggage when you get to the ship so these are a must since you have to attach the paper luggage tag they make you print out.

Lanyard

When you get on the boat, they give you a card with your name/picture on it. You have to pull it out all the time because it’s your room key. It is also used whenever you get a drink or get on/off the boat at ports.

Magnetic Cabin Hooks

Who knew the walls and door were magnetic? You can use the clip to hand your lanyard so you don’t forget it when you leave the room. You can also use them to organize cruise daily schedules.

Non Surge Protector Power Strips

My room had 2 outlets so it was nice to have more spots to charge my hair straightener, phone and computer chargers, and blow dryer.

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August 29, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

To Cruise…or Not To Cruise?

I love travel so much that there are not many places I wouldn’t go. However, one form of travel has always made me nervous… a cruise. People love cruises and the cheap prices you can get should make it a no-brainer. Each time I consider it something holds me back. I feel like I have so many unanswered questions about cruises that I’ve stayed away from them. I decided to ask five friends to give me their honest opinions about cruises. I thought I’d share some of their responses in case anyone has the same questions. Enjoy! (And thanks girls for sharing!!)

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August 15, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

10 Tips for a Fun Day at an Amusement Park

Amusement parks can be a great way to spend the day as a family. With a little planning, you can have a stress-free day that everyone can enjoy. Here are 10 tips for a fun day at an amusement park:

CHECK OUT THE MAP

Before you go, look at the park map online. Decide if there are areas you all really want to do and if there are areas you can skip. Give the kids a say in the day.

NO PRESSURE

Kids will do scary rides when they are ready. Let them know there is no pressure for them to go on any rides they don’t feel comfortable with.

MINIMUM HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Nothing is worse than having your kid wait in line only to find out they are an inch too short to ride. Save the tears and have them check the height requirement and measure them before they go.

Riding roller coasters at Storyland, NH

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March 15, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

10 Tips For Traveling to St. Lucia

Although St. Lucia is often thought of as a honeymoon destination, it is a wonderful island to bring kids. With a little planning, the entire family can spend a fun-filled vacation doing things that everyone can enjoy.

Here are 10 tips for traveling to St. Lucia:

Where do you fly in?

The best place to fly in is Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort (UVF)

CLICK HERE TO FIND AN AMAZING FLIGHT

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September 2, 2021 mytravelingkids.com

7 Ways to Entertain Kids at Museums

I love going to museums and have always wanted my kids to be just as excited about them as me. Their first museum was visited in a stroller, and when they were finally able to walk it was time to explore the Museum of Natural History in NYC. Some of my friends think it’s pointless to bring their kids because they don’t get anything out of it. Seriously? How can you possibly stand next to the statue of David and not get anything out of it? However, how do you entertain kids at museums?

Now don’t get me wrong, my kids and I don’t stand at a painting and discuss the contrasting and muted tones or the use of negative space. It usually sounded more like, “Hahaha…look Mom…BOOBS!”

My girls have been to museums in NYC, Boston, Portugal, London, and Greece and have never once told me they were bored. When they were young, they treated a museum as a place to use their imagination and they come up with some pretty cool ideas. Now that they’re teens they still love going to museums. I asked the girls to share in their own words some tips on how they’d entertain themselves at museums when they were younger. Take it away ladies…

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