Family vacations are meant to be fun, but without proper planning, what ought to be a fantastic shared adventure can quickly turn into a disorganized disaster. Here, we'll share some insight into planning for the perfect family dive holiday.
Choose Your Destination Carefully
As you select your destination, give older kids the opportunity to get involved in the decision, and consider whether the location will suit your family's personality. Some considerations to make include:
- Budget
- Availability of kid-friendly dive sites
- Availability of amenities
Many popular resorts and hotels, including Caribbean destinations, cater to families. Many offer on-site baby sitters, and some offer day camps and clubs for kids, ensuring mom and dad can enjoy some challenging dive sites that might not be suitable for children.
For families with teens, look into all-inclusive resorts - but before you book, be sure the venue is family friendly.
Prepare to Travel
An important part of preparing to travel includes ensuring each child understands what will be happening during each part of the vacation. This helps ensure everyone is comfortable, and it helps to build anticipation. Get as much information as you can about the places you'll be visiting, and be sure to research dive sites, along with topside attractions various members of the family will appreciate.
If you'll be traveling to a destination where unfamiliar foods will be served, spend a little time familiarizing kids with new cuisine. This will help prevent unpleasantness at mealtimes while you're on vacation. In addition, teach kids some language basics such as "hello", "goodbye", "please", and "thank you" if appropriate.
Be sure each child is up to date on all necessary vaccinations, and ensure each of your children has an updated passport, if applicable. Ensure each child has his or her c-card, appropriate ID, and properly fitting dive gear. Check out our tips on packing, and use that information to create lists and ensure there are no last minute emergencies. Just taking these preliminary steps can help reduce stress associated with travel.
Be sure each of your children has a fun way to stay occupied at the airport and during flights, and be prepared for cabin pressure changes. Check FAA and TSA regulations to ensure you meet with no problems at the airport.
Parent Survival
By maintaining a positive approach, you'll encourage good behavior. Set ground rules from the beginning, and try to maintain a consistent schedule while traveling. Don't forget to give yourself a bit of downtime.
Prepare a little first aid kit for scrapes and bruises, upset tummies, bug bites, and other common children's complaints, and be sure each child has sunglasses, sunblock, and a hat with a brim. Be sure you keep your kids hydrated, and ensure that they understand which water is OK to drink, and which water ought to be avoided.
Traveling with kids can be a challenge, but the rewards are fantastic. You'll build a stronger family bond, and you'll come away with great memories that each of you will always remember. That's something money just can't buy!