Family Travel

  • How to avoid body aches during travel

    Who Else Wants to Travel Without Aches and Pains?

    Travel broadens your horizons. Extravagant vacations or a little sightseeing squeezed into a business trip can make life more enjoyable and meaningful. You have an opportunity to learn about other cultures and break out of your usual routine as you adapt to life on the road.

    But, there’s a downside! In addition to lost luggage and noisy hotel rooms, you may be plagued by aches and pains from all those hours of sitting in planes, trains, and automobiles. Check out these tips for protecting your health while you see the world.

    Travel Tips for Fighting Immobility

    Change positions

    Sitting still is stressful and can even cause blood clots in your legs. Try to stand up and move around at least once an hour, even if it’s just to walk to the bathroom.

    Support your feet and back

    Buy a lumbar pillow or put a rolled up blanket or sweater behind the curve in your lower back. Resting your feet on a level firm surface also takes stress off your back.
    Stretch out. However little room you have, you can still do some simple stretches. Scoop your abdominal muscles, lean your head to one side at a time, and roll your ankles and wrists. If you can stand up, do a deep forward bend.

    Travel Tips for Managing Stress

    Give yourself extra time.

    The aches in your body may start in your mind when you’re anxious about catching a connecting flight. Budgeting an extra hour could pay off.

    Pack light.

    Keeping your luggage to a minimum means less lifting and greater mobility. A small e-reader gives you access to any title you want. Ask yourself how many skincare products you really need for a two-day trip.

    Expect the unexpected.

    Some delays and detours are unavoidable. Consider them a learning experience.

    Go offline

    Are you trying to keep up with responsibilities at the office while you’re attending a conference? Cut down on texts and emails by asking a colleague to cover for you. Be ready to return the favor when they need it.

    Travel Tips for Sticking to Your Workout Program

    Take a walk

    Maybe you’re exhausted from listening to lectures and meeting with clients for hours on end. A gentle evening walk could stimulate your blood flow and give you more energy without disrupting your sleep.

    Exercise solo

    When you have to leave your gym behind, you still have access to exercise programs on your phone or tablet that will keep you limber. If you want something quieter, bring along a jump rope or resistance bands to use in your hotel room.

    Visit a new gym.

    If you prefer to see more of the neighborhood, browse online for fitness facilities. Ask about daily passes or single classes.

    Best Practice Travel Tips

    Lift items carefully

    It’s safer to lift heavy items in stages. Put your bag on your seat before raising it overhead. Engage your legs and core rather than straining your back.

    Balance your load

    If you must tote around books or medical supplies, try distributing your heavy items. A ten pound bag on each shoulder is preferable to lugging around one twenty pound sack.

    Treat pain promptly

    Act fast when you notice a blister or muscle soreness. Rest and first aid may allow you to enjoy your vacation or complete your work instead of becoming laid up.

    You can travel in more comfort even if you can’t afford a private jet. A few new habits may be all you need to stay fit while you journey far and wide.

  • 8 Tricks To Save Money On Your Family Road Trip

    The family road trip can be a great experience, but it can quickly go over your budget. It’s essential to plan so you can save money on your journey.

    Road trips can be economical if you follow several important tips:

    Carefully plan everything at home

    • It’s easier to prepare than to come up with last-minute solutions on the road. You can find a variety of deals online, make phone calls, and compare rates. Book your arrangements ahead of time so you can use your vacation to relax.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/safety-tips-when-taking-a-road-trip

    Compare gas prices

    • Gas prices often fluctuate from one area to the next. Use apps and websites to see the gas prices along your route. You can compare gas stations and read reviews.

    Reduce the cost of food

    • Fast food is convenient, but the cost can quickly add up during a road trip. You may want to bring your own snacks and meals.
    • Consider getting a large cooler with ice to pack food and beverages. Your cooler may hold enough food for a couple of days, but in most cases, you’ll still want to eat out sometimes. This is another opportunity to do research ahead and find the most economical restaurants.
    • Restaurants aren’t the only option. You can also make pit stops at grocery stores to fill up your cooler with more snacks and meals.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/a-travelers-guide-to-healthy-eating-while-on-the-road

    Check twice to ensure you’ve packed essentials

    • Did you remember to bring all of your medication and other medical supplies? You can save money by avoiding a trip to a pharmacy. Do you have enough clothes and shoes for everyone? Are you prepared for emergencies?
    • Avoid having to shop for a new pair of sneakers during the road trip because your child’s feet are cold.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/travel-medicine-cabinet-essentials

    Check out free events and attractions

    • You’ll find that many museums, events, and other places have free admission. You can add these to your plan as you put together your list.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/5-traveling-essentials-you-absolutely-need-but-cant-buy

    Carefully check your car before you leave

    • Inflate your tires to the pressure that’s recommended in the car’s manual to maximize gas usage. Also, consider the car’s weight. Heavier cars burn more gas, so pack the essentials and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
    • You can avoid costly roadside assistance and towing by doing recommended maintenance that you know will be needed soon. Do you need an oil change or minor repairs? Do them before you leave on your trip!

    Flexible cancelation policies

    • Are you making reservations ahead of time? Road trips can be eventful, and the best plans cannot prevent all possible emergencies.
    • Search for hotels and restaurants with flexible cancelation policies to avoid adding extra costs to your trip. If you’re late and miss a reservation, some businesses charge you.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/read-this-before-you-take-a-road-trip-with-your-kids

    Look for coupons and additional discounts along the way

    • These money-saving items can reduce the cost of your trip.
    • Coupons and discounts may be available from hotels, restaurants, and other places. Museums and shops may also offer them along your route—stock up on additional savings.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/why-you-need-travel-insurance

    Road trips can stay under a budget with the right plans. If you consider the costs of common items that occur during a trip, you can save money.

  • Read This Before You Take a Road Trip with Your Kids

    Taking a road trip with your children can be a great opportunity to spend quality time together. However, you may wind up wishing you stayed home unless you prepare for the challenges of sharing a small space for many miles.

    Driving cross-country can be a lot different than your usual local errands. You’re less familiar with the route, and your kids may become bored along the way.

    With careful planning, your vacation can be safe and fun. Follow these suggestions for your next family road trip.

    Staying Safe:

    Buckle up

    Your kids are probably used to putting on their seat belts. However, it’s worth reminding them to stay buckled up even while sleeping. Seat belts save lives and prevent injuries.

    Check your car seats

    Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website to find a child safety seat inspection station near you. Certified technicians will check that your seat is correctly installed and appropriate for your child’s age and size.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/safety-tips-when-taking-a-road-trip

    Plan for emergencies

    Prepare for icy roads or bee stings. Store bottled water and blankets in your trunk. Bring along a first aid kit and contact information for your pediatrician.

    Arrange seating

    Cut down on squabbling with strategic seat assignments. It might help to have at least one adult in the backseat.

    Drive responsibly

    Talk with your kids about why it’s important for the driver to keep their eyes on the road. Ban excessive noise or roughhousing. Pull over if you need to send a text or referee a disagreement.

    Providing Entertainment:

    Play games

    Choose from a wide variety of classic and computer road games. Introduce your kids to I Spy and 20 Questions. Write your own Mad Libs or buy a magnetic Scrabble board.

    Make crafts

    Browse online for digital art activities or paper crafts that are easy to do while riding in a car. Buy grown up coloring books, too, so you can share the fun with your kids.

    Listen to music

    If you need a break from Baby Shark, apps like Spotify will generate a wide selection of music for kids. Wear headphones or pick tunes that you can sing together.

    Bring audiobooks

    While you want to spend time interacting, you may also need a little quiet. Audiobooks or movies can keep kids occupied until you’re refreshed.

    Other Road Trip Tips:

    Related: darlingsteps.com/8-tricks-to-save-money-on-your-family-road-trip

    Research rest stops

    Give yourself enough time so you can get out of the car frequently to move around and take in the scenery. Visit amusement parks and historic sites. Take hikes and picnic in state parks along the way.

    Cool off

    On a hot summer day, cold water feels refreshing even if your car is air conditioned. Make a list of beaches, lakes, and water parks that will be within driving distance.

    Eat healthy

    Are you looking for an alternative to the fast food places that surround most highways? Pack a cooler with nutritious snacks and salads. Search online for Indian or vegetarian restaurants that may be just a few miles away.

    Related: darlingsteps.com/a-travelers-guide-to-healthy-eating-while-on-the-road

    Tidy up

    You’ll probably feel more stressed and irritable if your car starts looking like a garbage bin. Keep clutter and spills under control with simple rules and organizing products. Hang a pouch over the back of car seats to hold toys and books.

    Share conversation

    Having time for extended discussions is one of the greatest joys of family car trips. Think of some conversation starters before you leave, like funny stories about your own childhood or interesting news events.

    Make your next family road trip more relaxing and enjoyable. You’ll return home with lots of happy memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Dirt Cheap Family Travel Destinations in The USA

    5 Budget-Friendly Vacation Destinations


    Nothing refreshes the body and mind like a vacation. Whether you travel alone, with your family or extended family and close friends, it’s good to get away from the daily routine!

    According to the American Society of Travel Agents, the 5 most budget-friendly travel destinations are:

    Las Vegas, Nevada
    Orlando, Florida
    Branson, Missouri
    New Orleans, Louisiana
    Los Angeles, California

    Here’s why these locales are so budget-friendly:

    Las Vegas, Nevada

    In Las Vegas, you can get away, explore tourist attractions and stay in one of the many awesome hotel resorts, all for very decent prices.

    Because of the vast number of hotel rooms, nearly 150,000, says the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, many package deals to Vegas are available. A common travel package to Las Vegas includes flights, hotel, food credits, and a discount on show tickets.

    Related: Save Money on Your Family Road Trip

    Vegas casinos will clamor for your business. However, if you want your vacation to Las Vegas to be truly budget-friendly, avoiding the casinos may be wise. Alternatively, you can budget a certain amount of money to enjoy the experience of the casinos, and when you hit that limit, stop gambling.

    With the many shows, amusement parks and great places to eat, there are plenty of non-gambling activities to do in Vegas as well.

    Orlando, Florida

    Because of Disney World, Epcot, Universal Studios, Sea World, and more, there’s no end to the package deals you’ll find for Orlando, Florida. Families converge in groups each year to this sunny Florida vacation mecca.
    Depending on the time of year you go, you’ll snag some incredible “freebie” days at Disney and Universal Studios. Since July and August are in the middle of hurricane season, not to mention the hottest months of the year in Florida, you may prefer to avoid Orlando during those months.

    Related: How To Pack Your Entire Life In One Luggage

    However, if you’re seeking a great travel deal to Orlando, you’ll find it in July and August.

    Branson, Missouri

    Second to Nashville, Tennessee, as the country music capital of the world, Branson offers a stay at a fine hotel, delicious meals, and entertaining shows at some astonishingly low prices.

    Related: Plan A FUN Family Vacation Cheap

    Here’s an example for a family of 4: two nights hotel, 4 free admissions to a water park, 4 free show tickets to a Country Music Hall, 2 free large pizzas, and a $10 card to a local play spot, all for $298.60 for those vacationing in June, July or August.

    Another real advantage of a Branson vacation is that the location is easily accessible from several U.S. states. You can take a car trip to get there in a day or so. A destination you might not have considered, Branson offers numerous budget-friendly opportunities.

    Related: Safety Tips You Should Know When Taking a Road Trip

    New Orleans, Louisiana

    What’s not to like about a visit to New Orleans? Steeped in history and some of the most charming old Southern homes you’ll ever lay eyes on, this city of jazz and art is an experience in and of itself. If you haven’t been to New Orleans and you like to save money, you’ll definitely want to place this destination on your travel wish list.

    Related: Top 7 Tips For Stress Free Travel (#4 will surprise you!)

    Beignets and chicory coffee can be had for a song at CafŽ du Monde. A walk around Jackson Square when the artists are displaying their wares is free!

    For another real New Orleans experience, take a stroll down Bourbon Street after dark and just listen to the music wafting out to the streets. No charge. Of course, you’ll be drawn into one of the no-cover-charge lounges to enjoy the entertainment.

    Related: Travel Symptoms You Need Buy Can’t Buy (It’s not what you think)

    Los Angeles, California

    This destination surprises as one of the top five U.S. budget-friendly travel locations. With museums, Venice Beach, Chinatown, and all things Hollywood, consider a budget-friendly trip to LA. Allow time to enjoy the free sightseeing and inexpensive (but good) street food.

    Exploring Universal City Walk or the Hollywood Walk of Fame won’t cost a dime, except for food and drink. Include in your budget what you’d like to spend on shopping and entertainment at these locations so you don’t get carried away and overspend.

    Related: What Hotel Won’t Tell You (But I will Because I’ve In Them!)

    Whatever your pleasure, you can afford to travel to one of these budget-friendly vacation destinations. With careful pre-planning coupled with a great package deal, you’re sure to live it up during your cost-saving vacation to one of these top 5 budget-friendly vacation destinations.

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