Avoiding Jet Lag On Any Trip

Jet lag is the worst. It can lower your energy, make you feel weak and stupid, but ostly it just gives you less quality time on your trip. When you're sluggish and groggy, nothing is fun or interesting. Honestly, budget travelers can't afford to get hit with jet lag. If you're someone that has been a victim of this traveler's curse, there are ways to make sure you avoid it next time. 

I had the worst bout of jet lag in 2006 and I vowed to never again have that problem. Over the years I've learned some great ways to keep my body from rebelling over the time (and environment and weather) changes:

Me with my sparkling water

Easy things you can do

There are jet lag preps that are going to take you some time, but there are some that you can do as you're traveling and the night/day before your trip.

• Stay hydrated - with the dry airplane air, you need to keep your body hydrated more than you would normally. I put ice cubes in a thermos (ice is usually permitted through security), then fill up with water once I'm through TSA. 

        I hate water, and I'll pretty much only drink it if it's ice cold or I'm walking a lot on vacation. You want to drink at least one, if not two or three, depending on how long your trip is. I have also purchased a bottle of water at the airport and added it to my thermos for chilling. You can also add a hydration packet to your water for extra oomph, like Liquid IV or Venture Pal, which add a fun flavor. I'm also one to order tomato juice on a flight, because it's hydrating and packed with vitamins, plus flying dulls your taste buds, so it's a little more tasty than you expect.

            

        You also want to bring a good moisturizing lotion and lip balm and re-up every so often. I know some people like to do a hydrating sheet mask on long flights. I could never, but you do you. I bring a tiny hyalauronic acid spray for my face.

• Avoid alcohol - Alcohol is dehydrating - so are most caffeinated drinks, but you gotta live your life - and usually packed with sugar. If you can avoid drinking the night before your flight and your entire day of travel, that's really going to help your body be able to retain moisture and hydration, it'll also help keep your immune system running right and avoid getting sick for no reason.
• Get a good night's sleep - Sleeping is so important for your body to recharge and keep going. Even if you have an early morning flight, go to bed at a reasonable time and try getting as good of a deep sleep as you can. I know that sometimes it's very exciting to know you're traveling, or stressful, if you're always worried you forgot something (make a packing list, or buy my travel planning guide, so this isn't you!), but getting enough rest is going to help you stay alert and also healthy.
• Eat light - The day before my flight, I make sure I'm not eating a bunch of heavy food that's going to make me feel like trash when I'm up in the air and the weird pressure makes your body feel all out of whack. Eat lighter than you normally would. Think fish or chicken, or even a vegetarian dish, with lots of veggies and fewer carbs, fried elements, and sugars. It might be difficult to continue to eat better while flying, but I also bring along light snacks, like fruit, nuts, a little dark chocolate, and protein bars, which all give you a burst of energy, without making you feel full and gross. 

Crafting and listening to a movie

Make-a-plan things you can do

I'm a planner, so I've mapped out our whole trip before we've left home, I've packed 2-8 weeks ahead of time, I've paid for as many things as I can before I get to my destination, and I know exactly how I'm spending my time on the plane, especially, on long flights. 

• Get on "destination" time before you go - If you can, start adjusting your routine to your new time before you leave home. Now, I don't do this, because I will work up until the day of my trip, and I have a dog with a schedule, but even if you make a few slight adjustments to your own schedule, like going to bed a little earlier/later before you are actually on your trip, this can help your body adjust to the time difference before it just gets thrown into it. 

        Here's what I do: I look at when I'm arriving to my destination and I look at how much plane time I have. I know I can do pretty normal on about 5 hours of sleep, so that's the minimum I shoot for. Trust me. You do not want to just get on the plane and sleep for 10+ hours, regardless of what time it will be at your destination. Your body continues to want to sleep or you end up wide awake at midnight and it throws off your whole body's rhythm for half of your trip. You want to get enough sleep, but not too much, so you're still slightly tired, and are able to sleep at a normal time at your destination. This almost ensures that you will sleep really good and wake up totally refreshed.

    I make a plan before I even get on the plane. Example: I'm leaving at 6pm and my flight is 9 hours, which would be 3am at home, but is actually 11am local time. That means I'm getting on the plane at 2am local time, when I should be asleep. Theoretically, you're getting served 2 meals. Maybe snacks, but we aren't going to worry about those, because you brought your own. My plan for these 9 hours is:

• board the plane
• watch a movie, play a game, or read a book for 2 hours and eat dinner
• take a sleep aid (I do Dream Water gummies and my usual allergy pill) right when food is served
• cuddle up in a cardigan, put on slipper socks and an eye mask, pop in my earbuds with a sleepy-time podcast on, and get situated in my travel pillow. (I prefer the FaceCradle, because it allows me to stretch my back while I sleep, but pick your favorite.)
• hope to sleep 4-5 hours
• wake up and watch another movie or read for the remainder of the flight and eat second meal - if you're worried about sleeping too deeply, good for you, but you can always leave a note on your tray or choose on your seatback monitor for the flight attendant to wake you up for food
• be awake and refreshed when plane lands

Sleeping on the plane does take some practice, especially if you're a light sleeper like my husband is. We find that having the correct travel pillow is pretty key. I can sleep anywhere, but I also don't want to wake up feeling like a crumpled up piece of paper. Having body aches, or a neck that you can't turn comfortably, for half your trip kind of ruins the experience. If you normally take something like melatonin, then do it on the plane when you need sleep, too. You can also try eating a banana, if you aren't into sleep aids, that can naturally help you fall alseep.

protein-packed breakfasst!

Once you arrive

When you get to where you're going, you're going to want to just do whatever you normally would during the local time. I usually like to take an overnight flight and get there in the daytime, but that doesn't always work out. If I get there during the day, I check-in to my hotel or Airbnb, drop my bags, change my clothes, and then go do some sightseeing. If you get there in the evening, try to walk around and do things until it's a normal time for you to go to bed. Whatever time you get there, try to get some walking in. I love to do a museum or a walking tour when I arrive. Do what interests you. 

You'll want to continue to drink extra water and avoid alcohol for that first day, until your body adjusts. Eat more protein in the morning for extra energy and save your carb-heavy meals for the evening, when you would normally be winding down anyway.

You don't need to do many of these things for a shorter trip, but any trip can benefit from your sleeping better, eating more thoughtfully, drinking more water, and generally being better to your body. 

What are some of your jet lag nightmares, or wins?

Disclaimer: Support Shereen Travels Cheap by using the links in my posts to shop. I receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so I can continue to create helpful free content. I earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you. I appreciate your support!

Having The Best Time in Thailand Without Breaking the Bank

Thailand has a reputation for being affordable. That doesn’t mean that a trip to Thailand is going to be inexpensive, but you can make it more budget-friendly while still having a fantastic time. With a little strategy, you can stretch your budget while still enjoying comfort, culture, and a few well-earned luxuries along the way. Whether you’re planning a two-week escape or a longer stay, living your best life in Thailand is all about balance.

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Master the Accommodation Combo

If you're traveling on a budget, short-term apartment rentals can be a smart move. Platforms like Airbnb often offer better value for one- or two-week stays compared to nightly hotel rates, especially if you want a kitchen and extra space. Condos in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai frequently include amenities like pools and gyms.

That said, timing can be tricky. The best value rentals aren't always available for the exact dates you need. One simple solution? Start your trip with a few nights at a comfortable hotel to recover from jet lag and get your bearings. Booking a stay at a luxury property https://thesalilriverside.com/ allows you to relax in the best possible environment.

Get to Know the Locals

Thailand becomes far more affordable when you tap into local knowledge.

If you’ve connected with people online through shared interests, language exchanges, or travel communities, reaching out for recommendations can lead you to incredible hidden gems.

Locals know which restaurants serve authentic dishes at fair prices and which attractions are genuinely worth your time. They can also steer you away from overpriced tourist traps.

The key is building real connections first. Nurturing genuine online friendships or community ties can open doors to experiences you’d never find in a guidebook.

Transportation: Spend Smart, Travel Easy

Getting around Thailand through public transport is cost-friendly, as per autourasia.com. In Bangkok, public buses cost just a few baht, and the BTS Skytrain offers an affordable and efficient way to cross the city.

Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt are widely used and often cheaper than traditional taxis.

In northern cities like Chiang Mai, shared songthaews (converted pickup trucks) provide low-cost transport within town.

For longer distances, trains and intercity buses are budget-friendly options, and overnight sleeper trains can double as accommodation savings.

If you are feeling brave, renting a motorbike is common in smaller towns and islands, but it’s only advisable if you’re experienced and properly insured.

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See the Sights Without the Crowds

Thailand’s biggest attractions are popular for a reason, but there’s magic beyond the most photographed temples and beaches. Consider exploring Sukhothai Historical Park instead of only visiting Ayutthaya, or head to Khao Sok National Park for dramatic landscapes without Phuket-level crowds.

In the south, provinces like Chumphon and Khanom offer quieter coastal experiences. Up north, towns like Nan and Pai provide cultural charm without the bustle of major hubs. Traveling slightly off the main tourist trail often means lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed pace.

So, if Thailand is on your bucket list, you can plan an unforgettable trip without breaking the bank. It’s about spending intentionally. Thailand is already an affordable country for most Western tourists, but that is the key challenge. When everything seems cheaper than at home, you can easily overspend! So, with thoughtful planning, Thailand lets you experience richness in culture and comfort without draining your wallet.

What are your favorite budget-friendly things to do in Thailand?

How to Save Money On a Rental Car

Sometimes when you travel, it’s just not practical to take public transportation. Maybe you are covering a lot of ground on your trip or the bus schedule is iffy or you are on a business trip that calls for you to be at specific places at particular times. The problem with renting a car is that it can quickly add up over just a few days.

Following the pandemic, it was really difficult to find a deal, because with no one traveling, most rental companies sold off the majority of their fleets and couldn't bounce back when travel returned. Finally, you can find some good deals, but it does take some know-how and persistence. Here are some of the easiest ways to get the best deal possible.

Book a Ride-Share Car

Need a rental car? Then skip the traditional rental companies if you can. They are still charging vast amounts of money for their shrunken fleets. I have almost exclusively used Turo for the last 5-6 years, but you can also rent through Uber now, too. These are basically Airbnb, but for cars. I've saved half off traditional rental rates this way. If you're looking for a less expensive, but more convenient rental experience from a more traditional company, check out Kyte, where they will bring the car to you.

I'll be renting a car through Turo while we're in France, so it's not just for the U.S. it'll be the first time I've rented through them outside of America, but you can add a second drive for free, as long as they are approved to drive, so one person doesn't have to drive the entire trip by themselves.

If you are looking for a traditional rental company, here are some tips to get deep discounts. 

Book for a week

Weekly rates are sometimes much better than if you booked each day separately and often even more affordable than a four- or five-day rental. Check the fine print to make sure there’s no penalty for returning your car early. If there isn’t, take the weekly rate and then bring your rental back a few days early. It can only help them make more money by having an extra car on-hand. You can also get a discount on Turo cars if you book a week or more.

Reserve the smallest possible car

Yes, you’re on vacation and you want to be comfortable, but think about how much time you’ll actually be spending in the car. Rental companies can’t downgrade your car once it’s booked – only upgrades are acceptable. This means if you reserve a compact or an economy car (which are the most popular) and they don’t have any when you get there, they have to give you the next available size up at the same rate. If all they have at the time is a luxury car, they are obligated to rent it to you. The other upside to renting a smaller car is that it will cost you less in fuel, because you’ll get better gas mileage.

Avoid the inclusive gas option

By far the biggest rip-off when you rent a car is the optional fill-up upon return. While there are some exceptions, it is very common for them to charge you over a dollar more per gallon than what is charged at the pump. On top of that, no matter how much gas you return with, you will be made to pay as if the tank was empty, and at the highly inflated rate. Tell the rep at the desk that you will return the car with a full tank and then ask where the nearest station is, so you can take note to stop there upon your return.

Rent away from the airport

Airports impose a rental fee to car companies, which they then pass onto the customer. If it is possible to rent off-site, compare pricing to see if there is a notable difference. If there is, choose the least expensive option.

Add a second driver

Most rental companies allow you to add a second driver to your rental for no fee once you get to the counter to sign in. If you are married – or live in the same house and say you are spouses – then you can both be on the rental agreement for the same rate as just one.

Get the most out of your rental

You always want to get the most for your money and renting a car is no different. Sign up for reward programs and earn points toward free rentals, upgrades and more when you use each company. You can usually use your frequent flyer membership number to earn miles for each rental you complete as well. Sometimes you have to pay a bit more for your rental this way, but usually it’s less than a dollar per rental day, so you are still coming out ahead. 

Use corporate rates

If the company you work for has a rental car program, get on it, because they rarely make you prove you work there when you rent. I worked for a company that extended their business rates to everyone in the company. I signed up for Budget's Fastbreak at the time and even though I haven't worked for that company in over a decade, I'm still able to get those rates with Budget. On top of that, I can bypass the rental counter and just go straight to my car, because they have all my info on file. That saves us so much time.

Renting a car doesn't have to be a daunting experience. It's fun to drive something new. It's exciting to save money, and you'll be glad to not have to rely on public transportation if you will be traveling around a lot during your stay. A car rental also enables you to take day trips from the city and go on your own schedule. With these tips, you can eliminate the stress of high rental costs, because you'll know the rate you're paying is the best one you could find.

How often do you rent a car when you travel?

Exploring Dog-Friendly Travel Options

Exploring the world with your best 4-legged friend can be one of the most fulfilling ways to experience it, but requires careful planning in order to ensure they remain comfortable, safe, and happy during the trip.

From exploring streets of new cities to chilling under the stars or hitting open roads, there are a lot of dog-friendly travel options that cater specifically to four-legged adventurers. Let's look at some of these options, from overseas travel to RV parks.

Flying Full of Fur-tune

Flying with pets might sound overwhelming, but thanks to pet-friendly airlines and considerate travelers it has become more accessible than ever before. Many international carriers provide cabin options for smaller breeds of dog, while larger breeds can travel in temperature-controlled cargo spaces designed to prioritize safety and comfort. Airlines such as Lufthansa or JetBlue are frequently recognized for their pet-friendly policies.

Checking each airline's regulations carefully, especially regarding breed or size restrictions that could impact you is very important. Arriving early will make sure you have ample time to manage check-in logistics. For longer flights, select dog-friendly destinations such as Amsterdam with its relaxed leash laws or Tokyo with its abundance of boutique pet shops and dog cafes.

Keep in mind that passports aren't just limited to humans. Many countries require up-to-date health certificates and proof of vaccinations before going on your travels. So be sure to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian beforehand.

Photo by Egor Gordeev on Unsplash

All Aboard the Pet Express

Train travel can be an exceptionally dog-friendly alternative, particularly in Europe and North America. Some U.S. services allow dogs of up to 20 pounds in carriers onto trains. European railways typically welcome larger breeds on leashes but require them to have their own ticket purchases. The charm of rail travel lies in its ability to provide you and your pet scenic views while making boarding easy with minimal turbulence.

The Call of the Wilderness

Outdoor enthusiasts and their canine companions will find RV parks to be among the most rewarding dog-friendly travel experiences. Many state and national parks in the U.S. welcome canines with open arms. Leash requirements should always be double checked before your travel begins. Trails, lakes, forests provide canines a playground while connecting them with nature.

Trails provide even further opportunity to roam freely amidst nature, while recreational vehicles allow pets to experience adventure without airline flights or hotel accommodations disrupting them. Pet-friendly RV parks often come equipped with amenities such as dog runs and play areas, making them a fantastic choice for long-term travelers.

Luxury Stays for the Well-Pawed Guest

Boutique hotels and Airbnb rentals have taken to offering pet-friendly stays, featuring plush beds, designer water bowls, as well as dedicated dog concierges, making it easier than ever to find luxury stays that welcome wagging tails. Many listings also have pet-friendly filters on them while hosts show their affection by providing fenced yards, toys and treats. Perfect accommodations for the well-pawned guest.

No matter the mode of transport, preparation is important when traveling with your dogs. Important items like a strong leash, travel crate, waste bags and plenty of water make a significant difference when it comes to an enjoyable journey. Research destination rules thoroughly as some areas may impose breed or leash length restrictions. And be sure to bring along some familiar toys to help make your pet feel secure and at home.

Exploring the world with your four-legged bestie adds an unparalleled level of joy and companionship to every journey. From transcontinental flights to relaxing RV trips, there is no shortage of dog-friendly travel opportunities designed to suit the needs of both humans and their adventurous pups.

Planning Your 2025 Summer Vacation

If you haven't planned your summer travels yet, that's okay, but you also need to get on it. The closer we get to June, the more expensive flights and hotels are going to get. Do you need a little bit of a kick in the pants? Maybe some suggestions for where to go? Or some tips to make your trip more affordable?

One of the most exciting parts about a vacation is planning one. Reading all the local guides, learning about the local attractions and even reading social media pages to discover food? It’s all part of the experience and you get the experience from the moment you begin your journey to plan! If you're still hoping to go somewhere when the kids get out of school, and not spend every dollar you have, then I've got some great tips for you:

Book ASAP

Make sure you're getting on booking things you need as soon as you can, because you don't want to end up spending twice as much as you have to. Look to book your airfare Tuesday, Wednesday, or even Sunday. These are when the sales are out, but definitely sign up for emails for your preferred home airport to destination airport. This way, you'll be the first to know when there are deals. It's generally cheaper to fly on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, so I always try to fit my trip in between some combo of those days. 

Go Sooner Or Later

Mid-June through mid-August is peak summer travel times. If you can go at the beginning of June or the end of August, you might be able to get a deal and beat some of the worst crowds. And if you can go before before Memorial Day, not only will you save a lot more, you'll also need to book everything, like, yesterday. 

Book a Ride-Share Car

Need a rental car? Then skip the traditional rental companies if you can. They are still charging vast amounts of money for their shrunken fleets. I have almost exclusively used Turo for the last 5-6 years, but you can also rent through Uber now, too. These are basically Airbnb, but for cars. I've saved half off traditional rental rates this way. If you're looking for a less expensive, but more convenient rental experience from a more traditional company, check out Kyte, where they will bring the car to you.

Get Online Discounts

If you're looking to do a bunch of stuff on your trip, then see if you can get a discount by booking ahead online before you go. You can easily find promo codes for things as you're booking them, especially if you're using Chrome extensions like Honey or Rakuten, which will try all available codes at checkout. Not only that, but you'll get cashback on your purchases where these are available and save twice.

Go somewhere different

Your kids are always going to want to go to theme parks or the beach during the summer, but by changing up your destination, you can actually save a little or a lot of money. If they insist on going to the beach, look for lakeside resorts near where you live. Most still have a beach and everything that goes along with it, unless surfing is on the agenda. Other ideas are to visit cold-weather destinations or South America. The Southern Hemisphere experiences winter during our summer, making it a less desirable place to vacation. Less desirable equals more affordable. South America is close, but there are so many different places to choose from that are amazing, tropical and super budget-friendly.

Some great budget-friendly destinations for the summer broken down by month:

June: Bali, Dublin, Krakow, Japan, Las Vegas, Mexico, New York City, Portugal, San Diego, Toronto, Vietnam, Washington (State)

July: Brazil, Chicago, Costa Rica, Dallas, Denver, Ecuador, Georgia (State), Hungary, Morocco, Myrtle Beach, Nepal, New Orleans, Thailand

August: Bulgaria, Colombia, Curaçao, Ecuador, Egypt, Gatlinburg, Georgia (country), Las Vegas, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka, Turkey (Turkiye)

Consider an RV Adventure

If you’re looking for a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel this summer, why not consider a road trip and stay at an RV park? Renting or borrowing an RV gives you the freedom to explore hidden gems off the beaten path, avoid expensive hotel stays, and cook your own meals on the go. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, national parks, or quiet lakeside mornings, there are thousands of RV parks across the country that offer scenic, family-friendly accommodations. This kind of trip is especially ideal for families who want adventure on their own schedule without blowing the budget.

If you need a lot more summer travel tips, don't forget to check out my summer travel ebook and look for more ideas on where to go, how/what to pack, and other ways to save on all your trips. I also send out other travel tips that you won't find on the blog through my newsletter. 

I'll be spending some time in Sacramento in July. Where will your summer travels take you this year? Tell me in the comments!

Disclaimer: Support Shereen Travels Cheap by using the links in my posts to shop. I receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so I can continue to create helpful free content. I earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you. I appreciate your support!

Saving On a Romantic Getaway

As someone who hasn't celebrated Valentine's Day since I was a teenager, and even then didn't love it, I say make the holiday whenever you want and skip the crazy prices on the day/weekend/week itself. Take a getaway later in February or even March. Your money will go a bit further and you won't be fighting with a ton of other couples for overpriced "romance packages". 

Here are ways you can get away for less:

Use Groupon for things to do or places to eat

Groupon is an amazing site that offers deals on a wide assortment of things, not least of which is dining. I always set up notifications for my upcoming destinations and have the app on my phone, so I never have to print out a certificate if I don't have to. Dining certificates can be purchased quite often and many times you can grab a half-off gift certificate to a new local restaurant or one just trying to bring in new customers. 

We've used it for city tours, dinners, escape rooms, and even concerts. Sign up at Groupon for the destination of your next vacation (they cover many international locations as well as the United States and you can change your notifications at any time) and eat and go to attractions for less!

Scour Travelzoo's Top 20

Travelzoo has a Top 20 each week that they put out with their best deals, but you can also search for trips and portions of your trip directly on their site for cheaper activities, tours and more!

Invest in a city attraction card

If you have a list of must-dos on your list, check the ones offered on the city card of that destination to see how many are offered on that card. You can save up to 55% on a list of attractions and activities when you use GoCards or CityPASS. If they aren't available for either of these cards, because you're going out of the country or just because they aren't, just Google "city card [destination city]" and often you'll find something that works.

Get a vacation rental

Hotels can be expensive and don't give you great privacy or make you feel like you're that far away from others, so I usually opt for a vacation rental. You can find something for any budget and for however you like to travel. We almost always go for Airbnb when we aren't staying in a timeshare and are doing a stay of more than a couple nights. We've stayed in everything from a studio up to a three-bedroom, apartments, homes and even an Airstream trailer, from one night to one week and have been happy with our choices and always felt safe and like locals. 

Pick one splurge meal

If you're on a strict budget, pick a splurge meal and go to affordable restaurants the rest of your trip. If you have a bit more leeway in what you're spending, choose one meal to go big on. I do some research before I go and try to make reservations at restaurants I definitely want to eat at and choose the meal that won't totally break our bank. When we were in Palm Springs, I mostly chose breakfast to reserve and then filled in with more affordable options. If you're on a really tight budget, I recommend using the kitchen in your vacation rental.

Rent someone else's car

I try to use my own car when I can, but I am a big car renter. Rentals have almost always been kind of expensive, but since the pandemic and the rental companies sold off most/all their fleets they have been outrageous pretty much at all destinations now. I have been exclusively using Turo for my rental needs for 4 years now. Cars are owned by individuals and you rent from them through the app. I've had cars dropped off for me and also done contactless pick-up. Both have been great and all the cars we've had have been awesome. Think of it like Airbnb, but for cars.

Sign up for Turo for free (they will ask for your driver license info to do a quick background check on your driving record) and get a $25 credit, + refer a friend and you both get a $25 credit once they travel with Turo.

Hopefully, these tips can help you take an alternative Valentine's Day getaway, or even a regular trip another time of the year. What are your favorite romantic destinations?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may be compensated monetarily. Thanks in advance for any purchases you make. It helps me continue to run this blog and bring you my best budget travel tips.

5 Tips For Traveling with Kids

I don't have kids, so I'm definitely not an expert in traveling with them, but that doesn't mean I haven't traveled with them. Luckily, I could check out and do my own thing, but as a parent, you already know that it can be difficult to make everyone happy. You can do your best to make your trip as enjoyable as possible for all involved, it just may take a bit more planning.

Here are 5 ways to travel well with children, and not declare you're never taking another family vacation as long as you live.

1. Choose a travel goal

It's not always the destination you go to, but what you do there and what you want to accomplish. Talk to everyone and find out what they want out of vacation. Maybe they want to try all the new foods or see a bunch of museums or learn all the history. Find that one goal that everyone can agree on and plan your trip around that.  

2. Include kids in the planning

Nobody's going to be happy if you plan a whole trip without asking for feedback. Everyone has their own wants and needs. Make the planning more fun and the idea of vacation exciting by getting everyone's input. What are a couple things they can't miss? Fit in as many as you can, so everyone is happy and has something to look forward to on the trip.

3. Manage expectations

What happens on the plane? What happens on the train? Howl long will we have to sit in the car? How many souvenirs can we buy? Honestly, these are not the times when you want to just wing it and hope for the best. There's nothing worse than a meltdown because you won't buy them another churro or pair of Mickey ears. If you're going somewhere expensive, like Disney, consider buying affordable souvenirs ahead of time that you pack and can dole out throughout your trip. If that seems unmanageable, then let your kid(s) know the limits. Perhaps they can purchase one souvenir per day or can only spend a certain amount overall. 

4. Plan downtime

As an adult, I need downtime. Without it, I can get cranky, or even sick. Your kids are no different. They probably aren't go-go-go all day at home, so don't try to pack in a billion things each day. Yes, you're on vacation, and yes, you may not get back for a long time (if ever), but you can't expect them to feel any different on vacation than at home. If they normally get a nap, then plan one. If they go to bed at a certain time, it may behoove you to stick as close to that as possible. 

Nobody wants to try to have a good time with a child who's having a full-blown meltdown. I see these families at theme parks all the time. You can't expect your 4 year old to last from 6am-11pm and not be crabby. It doesn't matter how much fun you're having, they are tired. Also, just think: if you go back to your hotel/Airbnb for them to nap, that gives you some quiet time as well. Maybe it's a time for you to just chill or get some time in with your partner or for one of you to go have a little me time. I also use this time to do laundry and check emails or play a game on my phone.  

5. Bring extras

Let's face it. There are a lot of points in a trip that can be super boring: sitting at the gate at the airport, sitting on the plane, standing in line, waiting for food, walking 45x more than you usually do. Bring things to keep your kids occupied. I'm talking games, even if they're just on your phone or tablet. I'm also talking about snacks. As a snacker myself, my purse always has some goodies in it. I can get hangry and mean when I'm hungry. Nobody wants to be around that. Hit the ground running by taking a quick trip to the grocery store when you arrive. Grab some easy snacks, and possibly some fixings for breakfasts or lunch while you're at it. Also, bring a variety of snacks on the plane. If they don't eat them, you have them for other times. 

One of my favorite games to travel with is Fluxx. There are a ton of different versions and it's a game of ever-changing rules, so no two games are the same. I also find that kids pick this up much quicker than adults, which makes it perfect for families.

Need ideas for snacks that are good to bring along? Here are some of my go-to foods:

• Granola bars
• Nuts or trail mix
• Banana bread
• Carrot sticks
• Grapes
• Roasted chickpeas
• Chocolate covered blueberries
• Meat sticks - I'm a huge fan of the Vermont Smoke & Cure, specifically the beef and pork sticks
• Mini muffins
• Salami and cheese

These are all things that are filling, but aren't too heavy or salty or sweet. You can bring a little bit of everything or 2-3 of your favorites. Goldfish crackers are also a great standby, as well as Wheat Thins with or without a cheese or meat option.

Aside from snacks, I find that a notebook and pen + crayons or colored pencils can also go a long way. Or even an old-fashioned puzzle book. And stickers! These are good for all ages. Maybe get them a cheap camera to chronicle their trip their way. It will give them something to focus on. And if you're bringing an electronic of any kind, don't forget extra batteries or a battery back-up.

So, those are my top 5 ways to make your whole family excited by taking a trip instead of dreading it. I'd love to hear about some of your tips, too. What things have made your trips with kids (of any age) more bearable?