Going on vacation with children? Here are all the tips!

Going on vacation with children, grandchildren, nephews or nieces, friends of one or the other, certainly ensures a trip full of love and emotions, but above all requires a certain amount of organization! We are here to give you the best tips so that your trip with young children goes as smoothly as possible.

Health and administrative formalities

First of all, to be able to travel to another territory, a child must have their own identity card to travel, even just within Europe. This card will be valid for 10 years. For countries outside Europe, it will be necessary to obtain a passport, valid for 5 years.

In case of medical problems, it is preferable to request a European card, which will save you from paying any medical fees. Finally, to travel with your children, make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations and that their health allows them to travel…

Traveling with a child

Most trips require taking a plane, and be aware that most airlines have services adapted for families. It is important, if you are traveling with a baby, to mention it when booking. This will allow you to get priority boarding depending on the airline, a suitable and convenient seat so that the flight goes as smoothly as possible for you and your baby. If your baby is under 2 years old and travels on your lap, they will get a free or very low-cost ticket.

Regarding practical and health aspects, we advise you to bring a bottle of sweetened water to hydrate your baby regularly. Swallowing will help reduce the effects of pressure changes in the ears. Some airlines allow you to bring a baby seat on board in addition to your cabin luggage.

A safari with children? It's far from impossible!

Many people are concerned about going on a safari with children. Indeed, children tend to admire wild animals behind the cult film The Lion King, but isn't it high time to show them these incredible animals in real life?

When your child comes face to face with an elephant, a giraffe, or a lion, they will simply be amazed! The emotions you will feel, your child will feel too.

Now, here are some tips to make sure your safari goes as well as possible!

On sites in Uganda, note that the vehicles are closed on the sides, only the roof opens. Children can thus move around in the car, stand up when they want, and talk without risking scaring the animals away.

Before going on a safari with your children, make sure all their vaccinations are up to date and find out about any vaccines and medications to plan for.

Bring some toys in the safari jeep, this will keep the children busy during the journeys.

Children love animals, so a safari will be an unforgettable trip for your little ones.

Hiking with children: the beginner's guide

As a new hiker, you will surely need some tips to bring your children back safe and sound!

For children, it is recommended not to go hiking before the age of 5 or 6: the time it takes for them to have a minimum of physical strength and energy to go on an adventure. All this is not just about physical ability, but above all about motivation: being in a group, challenged, with other children of their age will help your mini-me keep smiling and stay energetic. In addition, having a goal (discovering animals, plants, or even swimming in a river) can really be the driving force behind their good mood throughout the hike.

In a few figures, children aged 4 to 8 are able to carry 3 kg over 3 to 12 km, but you should not overload them because a child will never have the same capacity as you!

During your nature getaway, it will be useful, even necessary, to often slow down the pace and take a 15-minute break every hour: a waste of time for some, but it is essential to check that there is no dehydration, sunstroke, and to regain strength (we recommend cereal bars that will give your little ones energy).

Watch out for your two main enemies: cold and heat, by hydrating, covering up, and being very attentive to the child's behavior.

Hiking with a baby

If hiking with children will require energy and attention, the same goes for babies. From 18 months to 4 years, any mistake can turn a day of fun into a chore. First of all, the route must be totally adapted to their level, not exceeding 3 hours of hiking (including breaks) at a very slow pace. Make sure you have all the necessary gear: sunglasses and sunscreen, suitable equipment, water, and snacks for breaks. A child aged 2 to 4 is not muscularly developed enough to handle continuous walking: make the hike fun to capture their motivation and especially their good mood.

As a final tip, make sure to check the weather conditions, avoid extreme weather, and favor clear skies.

And cycling?

A few small recommendations should be taken into account for successful bike rides. Let's start with the basics: the helmet, which is mandatory for children under 12 and recommended for everyone older. Don't forget the babies behind you, for whom the helmet is also mandatory to minimize the risk of injury in case of a fall. Try to keep a reasonable pace, preferably with as many bike paths and as few cars as possible. Favor breaks, water, food, and good weather. Also check that the bike is suitable for the child's size and, for the youngest, opt for a baby seat or a trailer for the bikes.