Raising confident little travelers

Empowering your child to be an independent traveler not only boosts their confidence but also nurtures their development. Here are some top travel tips to help your child become a self-assured and self-reliant traveler, contributing to their growth and self-esteem.

1. Make a list & check it twice

Begin by making a checklist they can follow. Not only does this help your little one mentally prepare for what's coming, but it also gives them a sense of control. Let your kids make some choices about what you'll be doing while on vacation. When children have opportunities to make age-appropriate decisions, they develop essential life skills, like problem-solving and critical thinking, that bolster their self-confidence and ability to face challenges with resilience.

2. Pack it up

When flying or traveling with kids, give your little explorers a suitcase that's just theirs - perhaps luggage with wheels, the kind they can pull, ride, and carry on their themselves. It's not just a children's suitcase, it's a fun-packed travel buddy that lightens your load and enables your little one to take responsibility for their own things.

Allow your children to pack by themselves as much as possible. By doing so, your little one can begin thinking about the trip and learn the important skill of planning. They'll discover firsthand that overpacking leads to a heavier suitcase, fostering essential skills in decision-making and organization as they prioritize their belongings.

3. Get ready for the ride!

If you're travelling by plane, train, or boat, let your children know what they can expect. For many kids, this will be the first time using these unique modes of transportation. Giving a little background will get them excited and take some of the fear out of the experience. It can also help them to understand what is expected in terms of behavior and safety during your travels.

Get your children on board by involving them in the preparation process. Encourage them to “research” and plan things that are in line with their interests. Read travel books together, visit websites, or watch YouTube videos about your destination. Planning enhances a child's development by fostering skills in organization and decision-making.

4. Explore your options

Give the younger kids options in addition to the set plans. Or, for older kids and teens, ask them to do online research to find activities that are exciting or challenging for them. Trying new things is a wonderful way to instill confidence – even if they try and fail – as long as they learn, it's a win!

Delegate responsibilities along the way. Even small children can be ''in charge'' of selecting their favorite snacks, reading books, or anything they find essential for their trip⁠.

5. Get a world view

Before travelling to a different country, learn some basic phrases in the local language. Learning even a few phrases in a foreign language can be incredibly beneficial for kids. It not only introduces them to the richness of diverse cultures but also enhances their cognitive development. It sharpens their communication skills, boosts their problem-solving abilities, and encourages a more open and inclusive worldview. Additionally, it lays the foundation for easier language acquisition in the future, broadening their horizons and providing a valuable skill that can be applied throughout their lives.

6. Finally - forget perfection

Anybody who's ever travelled with kids knows to expect a few hiccups along the way. Try to go with the flow and focus on the fun. Remember - it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. We hope we've inspired you to take on your next adventure! At the end of the day, your trip is an excellent opportunity to introduce your kids to the world around them, helping cultivate a lifelong love of travel and most importantly to enjoy time with you!

Safe travels!