Travel guides are my version of potato chips. I sit on the couch as I watch TV and devour one after another. I skim; I scan; I photocopy maps, and make lists of notes. I gather more info than needed about our travel destination and I love every minute of it. While I own several guide books (mostly gifts from my wonderful family), I also hit the library anytime I am planning (or dreaming) of our next big adventure.
Later this year, we are taking a trip to Orlando and so planning has begun. To prep, I created a travel folder with everything we’ll possibly need. In life (and travel) I like to be organized. My husband would call this the understatement of the year – but he reaps the rewards of my obsessions and so isn’t complaining.
Later this year, we are taking a trip to Orlando and so planning has begun. To prep, I created a travel folder with everything we’ll possibly need. In life (and travel) I like to be organized. My husband would call this the understatement of the year – but he reaps the rewards of my obsessions and so isn’t complaining.
Each section in this handy (albeit not stylish), inexpensive accordion file holds reservation confirmations, tickets for park entry, maps, and tidbits of info I’ve gleaned from travel guides (text and online). Most large cities have online trip planners, so it is easy to use public transportation to get from here to there with pre-printed directions. All this pre-planning helps our trip go smoothly and without unneeded delays (as wiggly boys do not enjoy delays).
As a mother, I also am strategic in packing. Everyone carries a backpack on the plane with their own toys, snacks, extra-clothes. I also pack single serving snacks in our suitcases so that we are never without food (hunger equals grumpy in this family). Grouping kids’ clothes in zip lock gallon-sized storage bags is also an easy way to stay organized as the family lives out-of-a-suitcase for the duration.
I’d love to know other traveling Mommy tricks – please share!
As a mother, I also am strategic in packing. Everyone carries a backpack on the plane with their own toys, snacks, extra-clothes. I also pack single serving snacks in our suitcases so that we are never without food (hunger equals grumpy in this family). Grouping kids’ clothes in zip lock gallon-sized storage bags is also an easy way to stay organized as the family lives out-of-a-suitcase for the duration.
I’d love to know other traveling Mommy tricks – please share!