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Traveling with kids has been by far one of the most rewarding, and also at times stressful, experiences. Kids bring a sense of wonder and curiosity, seeing things that are new about places I’ve been hundreds of times. And traveling with kids also means being prepared for anything… and I mean anything!

I’ve attempted to master the art of enjoyably getting from Point A to Point B as a family. The adventure isn’t just the destination, it is also the experiences along the way. Whether that is a great family conversation or an interesting pit stop. Here are a few tips and tricks I keep in my back pocket (or backpack!) while traveling with kids, tweens and teens…

1. FOOD: Always bring snacks! And I bring more than I think we will need. We try to avoid becoming “hangry” at all costs, so I tuck snacks into every pocket, in the car, in the cooler, in backpacks, in my purse, pretty much everywhere. Some of our favorites are cheese sticks, beef jerky, Cheezit crackers, protein bars and fruit. I also make sure everyone has a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
2. DISTRACTIONS & NOVELTY: I stock up on little surprises before we leave town. Coloring books, travel journals, travel games, flash cards, card games that travel easily like Uno, art supplies, and books. As the kids get older, they have taken on packing their own kit of goodies. Recently we’ve started using conversation cards for thought-provoking, and often humorous, conversation starters. 
3. SETTING EXPECTATIONS: I make a big effort to prepare both kids and adults for things like long airport lines, how to dress for the weather, how long until the next rest stop, etc. That way, we are all better prepared and have more realistic expectations. Our teens know to ask about the weather and how many days we will be gone so they can easily pack for their own needs and have a sense of independence while traveling. This gives me confidence they will make great travel partners as adults as well! 
4. OFFERING AUTONOMY: this component of travel has become especially important as our kids get older. They crave being able to explore on their own, at their own pace and their own interests within some safe boundaries. Sometimes that means they want to read a good book in bed for the afternoon while other times it means having a safe radius which they can roam from the campsite or hotel or wander through a new town. We make sure to have a meeting time/location and guidance on how to get help in the event they get lost. 

Do you travel with kids, tweens or teens? What has helped your family travel well together? Read about more tips on our post Traveling with Kids: Part 2.