Getting ready to hit the road or the friendly skies soon? (My own family is planning a week-long trip in August for 10 people, and yes, I’m already overwhelmed just thinking about it!) This guest post from Kristy Rodriguez of Pure Nurture is full of stress-free family travel trips that will help minimize the hassle and maximize the fun.
This summer, more than 82% of Americans will take a family trip, according to the annual study conducted by Gas Buddy. While vacation can be fun for kids, studies have found that it’s often stressful and exhausting for parents. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be, with proper planning. These self-care travel tips are inexpensive, easy to find and helpful for the entire family!
Self-massage with a tennis or lacrosse ball:
These can be used to massage your back, neck, or hamstrings by resting the ball between your body part and a wall or floor, or even just holding it in your hand.
Essential oils for relaxation and rejuvenation:
Plug into a car diffuser and enjoy some uplifting, de-stressing or relaxing scents. My favorite oils for travel are lavender for relaxation, orange for a mood boost and peppermint for an energy boost.
Coloring books (adult and kid varieties):
They say coloring is the next best thing to meditation, so pack up some colored pencils, crayons, and/or markers along with plain paper or coloring books for you and the kids.
Bring your own snacks:
Highway gas stations and airports are two of the most challenging places to find healthy snacks! Grab a small bag and pack your own—ones that will keep your blood sugar and mood stable, as well as boosting your immune system, which is really important when you’re traveling. Aim for a nutrient-dense variety of items like fresh fruit, trail mix, and cereal bars, preferably the low-sugar kind.
Try a Kids’ club:
All-inclusive resorts can be a great option. Check out kid-friendly resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica that are relatively low cost. Food is included, which means you won’t be paying for a meal that your kids don’t end up eating (I know this situation very well). The kids’ clubs offer fun for all ages. While your kids are having a great time, you will have some down time to do whatever fills you up—reading on the beach, taking a nap, getting a massage, etc.
These are just a few ideas to help make your next family getaway feel more like a vacation and less like a trip. The better care you take of yourself, the better you’ll feel . . . and the more energy you’ll have to keep up with your kids, giving you a better chance of coming home feeling more relaxed and refreshed.
About the Author:
Kristy Rodriguez, pre- and postnatal wellness expert and advocate, is the owner and founder of Pure Nurture, a business devoted to educating and inspiring women to nurture and nourish themselves through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. As a Holistic Health Coach and Registered Yoga Teacher, Kristy works with individual clients, as well as teaching classes and workshops, both in person and online. She is also the author of Pure Nurture: A Holistic Guide to a Healthy Baby.