Did you know that every year, more than 15 million families go on vacation to France?
Traveling with children can seem daunting, but with a few tips, it can become a true family adventure filled with joy and happiness. The main secret lies in good planning.
Whether it's choosing your destination, packing your bags, or dealing with unexpected events, we've gathered the best tips for traveling with peace of mind with your children.
Preparations before the big departure
Choosing a family destination
To make your trip as exciting as possible for young and old, select a destination that offers a variety of activities suitable for children of all ages.
Theme parks are great destinations for children. Think Disneyland Paris or Parc Astérix. These magical places offer unforgettable moments and guarantee ear-to-ear smiles.
For a relaxing vacation, seaside destinations are ideal. French beaches offer calm, shallow waters that are ideal for young children. You can also take advantage of all-inclusive resorts with kids' clubs offering fun activities. And while the kids are having fun, guess what? Parents can finally get some rest! We don't promise total silence, but at least a well-deserved moment of tranquility.
If your family prefers the great outdoors and outdoor activities, the mountains may be the perfect choice. Many ski resorts transform into summer paradises with activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, and exploring local wildlife.
Whether you prefer amusement parks, mountain hikes, or beach resorts, choosing the right destination is crucial for you and your children.
Prepare your luggage
Ah, packing. This crucial step can quickly turn into a nightmare if not well planned. Start by making a comprehensive list of essential items : clothing appropriate for your destination's climate, medications, children's favorite toys, and of course, valid passports and ID cards. Don't forget to check vaccination requirements and pack a comprehensive first aid kit for the whole family.
Also, remember to pack snacks and drinks for the journey. Nothing is worse than hungry and thirsty children stuck in a car or train. A small backpack for each child filled with toys, books, or a tablet with educational games can be a real lifesaver. And of course, keep a few changes of clothes handy for anything from a minor accident to unexpected rain.
To make packing easier, a good backpack can make all the difference. Norveya travel backpacks are designed for maximum practicality and comfort. With their multiple compartments, they allow you to easily organize the whole family's belongings.
Tips for the journey
Traveling by car
Road trips with kids can be an adventure in itself. To avoid the yelling and "When are we there yet?", plan regular stops so kids can stretch their legs and burn off some energy. Find rest areas with playgrounds, or plan stops at parks or tourist attractions.
Car games are also a great way to keep kids occupied. Think classics like the license plate game, the guessing game, or road trip bingo. Audiobooks or music playlists can also help pass the time. And of course, don't forget snacks and drinks to avoid hunger pangs.
Traveling by plane
Flying with children can seem daunting, but with a little preparation, it can go smoothly. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to avoid the stress of security checkpoints. Plan activities to keep the children occupied during the flight, such as books, coloring pages, tablet games, or downloaded movies.
Don't forget to bring snacks and drinks, as onboard options may be limited or unsuitable for children. For toddlers, pacifiers or chewable candies can help relieve ear pressure during takeoff and landing. And remember, a happy child makes the flight more enjoyable for everyone on board.
Travel by train
Traveling by train is often a more comfortable option for families, with more room to move around and fewer security concerns. We recommend choosing travel times that coincide with children's nap or bedtimes for a more relaxed experience. Pack compact travel games, books, and snacks to keep children occupied.
Dining cars or on-board food services can be an adventure in themselves for children. Encourage them to wander around the train to avoid boredom while ensuring their safety. Trains in France are often well-equipped for families, with dedicated children's carriages on some TGV trains.
Enjoy your vacation on site
Child-friendly activities
Once you arrive at your destination, it's time to fully enjoy your vacation. The important thing is to find a good balance between activities and relaxation. Children like to have a schedule, but also time to rest to let their imaginations run wild.
For cultural outings, choose museums or historic sites that offer fun tours for children. Many cities in France offer family-friendly guided tours, featuring treasure hunts or creative workshops. Zoos and aquariums are also great options, captivating the attention of young visitors while educating them about flora and fauna.
Don't forget to plan outdoor activities for children to let off steam. Parks, playgrounds, bike rides... These moments are essential for their well-being and allow them to create unforgettable memories. And why not organize a family picnic? There's nothing like a lunch in the great outdoors to recharge your batteries and enjoy local produce.
Relaxation for parents
Vacations should be enjoyable for everyone, including parents. Take advantage of the childcare services or kids' clubs offered by many hotels and resorts. These relaxing moments will allow you to recharge your batteries.
Explore spas, cafes, or activities that interest you while the kids have fun under professional supervision. A happy and relaxed parent is the key to a successful vacation experience for the whole family. Don't underestimate the importance of simple moments of relaxation, like reading a book on the beach while the kids play in the sand.
Creating memories
Family vacations are an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Take the time to capture these unique moments with photos and videos. Encourage your children to keep a travel journal or collect souvenirs like seashells, museum tickets, or postcards.
Participate in activities together, such as local cooking classes, craft workshops, or boat trips. These shared experiences will strengthen family bonds and provide stories to tell for years to come. Remember, the best vacations aren't necessarily perfect, but rather the ones that make everyone happy.
Conclusion
Traveling with children can seem like a daunting challenge, but with the right preparation, it's an incredibly rewarding experience. Every trip is an opportunity for young and old alike to discover new horizons, create lasting memories, and strengthen family bonds.
