“Take the trip,” they say. “Life is short.” However, the decision to go on vacation with a child who is too young to remember the trip is not always so black and white. Traveling with a baby or small child requires a lot of logistical preparation, dedication and often additional patience. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth it.
If you’re a first-time parent—or even an experienced but new-to-family mom or dad of small children—you might be wondering how logical it is to vacation while your little people are tiny. I’m here to influence you and give you the push you need to be convinced that you are should Take the trip. . . even if they won’t remember it. After all, life is short. Right?!
6 reasons to say “yes” to vacationing with your little ones
Even if saying “yes” to a vacation with a baby or toddler may initially scare you a bit, I can almost guarantee you that you won’t regret it. Here are some of the best reasons to pack your bags – and baby gear – for your next big adventure with your little buddy:
1. Vacations are great for family bonding
Whether you’re traveling to a place you loved since you were a child or flying to a completely new destination, traveling as a family is an excellent opportunity to bond. Breaking away from everyday life and taking a break from life’s little distractions allows everyone in the crew to focus on each other.
2. Your confidence as a parent will increase
Vacationing with a little traveler forces you to do things differently than you did before you had kids. From navigating airports and surviving flights From coordinating naps in new environments to setting up kid-friendly activities and meals on the go, the customization options are endless. Also for experienced globetrotters. Still, you’ll feel like a rock star after successfully completing your first vacation with your baby. Even better? Your self-confidence as a parent will continue to increase with every subsequent vacation including your child.
3. Everything costs less when they are young
Logistically speaking, things continue family holiday while your children are young can be surprisingly affordable. Many family attractions (such as museums, aquariums, zoos, and even amusement parks) offer free admission for babies and toddlers. If you fly, you can take advantage of lap seating for children under 2, as well as additional checked baggage allowances for baby gear at no additional cost. You can also make your vacation with babies and small children as relaxed as you want. They are easy to please. And you won’t feel like you’re missing out if you take the no-frills, no-tourist hotspot route on your next trip!
4. Parents deserve a vacation too
Parenting is a hard job. The hardest thing if you ask me. The fact that there is no written benefits package does not mean that a break from everyday life should not be planned. As mothers and fathers, we absolutely deserve to take a break! While some may joke that a vacation with kids isn’t really a vacation, I would say it is nonetheless. Especially when it involves sunshine, sand and – at least – a temporary escape from reality to remind yourself that relaxation is within reach.
5. You’ll still have the time of your life
If you go on vacation with your little people and end up feeling like you’re chasing them the whole time, know this: They’re probably having the time of their little lives. In my opinion, that’s reason enough to take her with you. And even if they won’t remember it later, who says they have to? Life is meant to be enjoyed in the moment.
6. You will remember – and cherish – your trip forever
Since becoming a mother, I have made some of my favorite memories while on vacation with my little family. And I will treasure these memories forever. The first time my daughter, then four months old, put her little toes in the sugary sand of the Gulf of Florida? Magical. When she splashed in turquoise waves and we discovered what a water baby she was? Even more. I will never forget breastfeeding my son and snuggling up for his nap under the breeze of the palm trees that covered our private cabana. Don’t worry about whether your little one will remember their first vacation. If You I’ll remember, you’re golden (and you will be, trust me).
Book the flight, take the trip and create memories
Ultimately, your children will only be little for a short time. If you’re not sure whether you want to travel with your baby or toddler, you have nothing to lose by saying yes to the trip. At least you’ll have an experience for the books. And you will hold on to the memories forever.
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