Hey there fellow travel enthusiasts! As a mom of three ranging in ages from 5 to 15, planning a vacation can be quite a challenge, especially when one of your kids has juvenile arthritis. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tips to share with you on how to make your next family vacation as relaxing as possible.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the importance of rest days. Yes, I know, it’s tempting to try and squeeze as much fun and adventure into your trip as possible. But trust me, adding a rest day into your itinerary is a game changer. Think of it like a “lazy Sunday” during your vacation. You can sleep in, lounge by the pool, or do whatever helps you recharge those batteries. It’s especially important when you have a jam-packed schedule planned with lots of physical activities like hiking, swimming, or walking around Disney World.
In fact, let me tell you a little story about the time we skipped the rest day. We were at a theme park, and within an hour, my youngest was in tears and my oldest was complaining about how tired he was. It was like trying to drag a bunch of zombies around the park. Needless to say, we ended up cutting the day short and heading back to the hotel for some much-needed rest. Lesson learned – always plan for a rest day!
And when it comes to flights, try to choose ones with layovers. Not only does it give you a chance to stretch your legs, but it also provides an opportunity to grab a bite to eat. Because let’s be real, nobody wants to deal with a hangry 5-year-old (or a hangry spouse, for that matter).
Now, if you’re traveling with a child who has a chronic illness, like my little one with juvenile arthritis, it’s important to make adjustments to your plans. Maybe you need to skip that hike or take a shorter route. That’s okay! Don’t be afraid to slow down and enjoy the journey.
So there you have it, my fellow travel enthusiasts. Remember, vacations are supposed to be relaxing, not stressful. By adding rest days to your itinerary and making adjustments when necessary, you can ensure a fun and stress-free trip for the whole family.
Until next time, keep calm and vacation on!
Yours in relaxation,
Nicole at RelaxationPlanner.com
