Summer is here and many of us plan to travel. But for those who are vacationing with little kids in tow, it can be particularly challenging. To make it easier, Shanthi Aravindan, the Global Head for Vacation Product Operations & Customer Experience at QVI Club Resorts provides some practical tips to help:

1. Take a stroller. Unless your child is a strong walker, bring a light stroller. It will help ease the troubles of jet lag or a new environment, if your child faces any of them.

2. Bring snacks and entertainment in-flight.The in-flight journey can prove to be the most tedious part of your journey. Children often get uneasy on long, boring flights with nothing to do. Take an empty water bottle and fill it after you pass security, and pack dry snacks and liquids up to 100ml–for example: apple yoghurt sticks).

3. Fly during the day. If you have a short time for vacation and a long flight to get to your destination, flying out early could ensure you reach your destination in time for bed, so your kids’ sleep patterns would not be affected, allowing sufficient sleep for everyone in the family before the fun activities begin.

4. Pack all your necessities, but keep it light.Multiple undergarments, socks, lightweight tees, and shorts are all important, especially with how rowdy and sweaty kids can get. It is a good idea to also carry a small pack of detergent so you can quickly wash off stains in the sink. Another useful tool is your first aid kit, in case of scrapes, blisters, cuts or bruises – include small packs of pain relief medicines for kids, mosquito repellant, and any creams to stop itching.

5. Check for special deals in hotels. If you’re going down the hotel route, make sure to ask in advance for any special family discounts, discounts on children’s meals, or even free meals. Most hotels and hotel apartments offer breakfast, but it seems like a waste if your child is too small, and only has a glass of milk or a bowl of cereal.

6. Allocate time for activities. The best way to avoid confusion and disagreements on trips is to allocate a specific time for every activity, be it a siesta or riding the cable car to the top of the mountains. Ideally, we see families wake up early and complete sightseeing during the day, then return for a light rest and lunch at their hotels, and then step out for early dinner in the evening.

7.Don’t rush your plans and avoid over-planning. Make it a point to list one thing to do each day and complete the task. Don’t try to squeeze in too many activities while stressing over whether your kids would enjoy them, because it might end up with none of you enjoying much at all.

8. Visit the doctor before your trip. It is always advisable to visit the doctor a month in advance before you travel to a new destination, to ensure you and the little ones are in good shape.