Travel: Family vacations can be easy if properly planned

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Family travel is not what it used to be. Today's family has more vacation options than ever from traditional to exotic, making information about what's available more important than ever.|ret||ret||tab|

When mom, dad and the kids decide to take a family vacation, it can seem a daunting task. But there are programs available that can make family travel more affordable. Many hotels have some kind of "kids stay free" program, some rental car companies offer free upgrades and some airlines will allow you to cash in frequent flyer miles for children.|ret||ret||tab|

Also, many single parents want to take the kids on vacation, which can present a challenge, since many vacation packages base rates on two adults with a reduced child rate.|ret||ret||tab|

When you plan your next family vacation, ask yourself these questions: Do you want to be with your children the whole time, or would you prefer a place that has planned activities for children? Do you prefer to be alone with your children, or would you like to be with other parents and their kids?|ret||ret||tab|

Grandparents face the same questions, and the good news for them is that there are now specialty tour companies that cater to grandparents and children, just like they do for moms and dads, and single parents.|ret||ret||tab|

Once you know these answers, how do you choose the best vacation for your family?|ret||ret||tab|

Regardless of what type of family will be going on vacation, using a travel agent who specializes in family travel will be your best source for information and finding the best vacation for your family and your budget.|ret||ret||tab|

There are hundreds of vacations to choose from cruises, skiing, theme parks, the beach the more information you can provide the agent, the more you can focus in on a few destinations.|ret||ret||tab|

Here is a list of tips compiled from travel industry sources that will help make your family vacation "picture perfect."|ret||ret||tab|

If your trip involves lengthy car travel, plan plenty of activities. There are a number of portable games available, and your local library will have books and books on tape for children. Provide them with their own copy of a road map upon which they can mark the route along the way. Also, plan a picnic if you can. It helps break up the drive, and it can be a lot healthier and less expensive than fast food. It also gives everyone a chance to stretch.|ret||ret||tab|

When traveling by plane, you should have games similar to those for car travel. It also helps to talk to your children before the trip, explaining what they will see and do. Some airlines have gift bags for kids that will provide some amusement. If they can stay entertained, the trip will pass much faster. It's also very important to have chewing gum for children or a bottle for infants. Little ears are very susceptible to changes in pressure, and chewing or sucking will help alleviate ear problems.|ret||ret||tab|

For small children, take a favorite blanket, pillow or stuffed animal along. This will make the child feel at home. It's also nice to let a child pack his or her own backpack with things they would like to take.|ret||ret||tab|

When flying, make sure everyone gets plenty of water to drink, especially on long flights. The cabin air is very dry and your body can dehydrate,|ret||ret||tab|

Before you leave, make a few ground rules for older children. If you are going to split up, make sure everyone knows the time and place to meet. For smaller children, make sure they have identification, and something that says where you are staying.|ret||ret||tab|

You should leave a copy of your itinerary with a neighbor or relative, but also remember some travel agents have a 24-hour emergency number that will have your travel information. |ret||ret||tab|

Loosen up the rules a little. Let the kids stay up a little later and play a little longer. The same goes for parents.|ret||ret||tab|

A vacation is supposed to be fun and relaxing. It is a special time for both children and parents or grandparents.|ret||ret||tab|

|bold_on|(Marvin McDaniel, CTC, is president of Carlson Wagonlit Travel/Carlson Travel Network.)[[In-content Ad]]