Travel Tips - Pitstops for Kids

Why travel is an excellent form of education

May 13, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

“Nothing develops the mind like travel,” said Emile Zola. And you can find great numbers of similar sayings from famous and ordinary men all over the world. What force makes people leave their safe and comfortable places and condemn themselves into all those unpredictable inconveniences during their life far from home. There is no one answer- it’s a curiosity for someone and a spirit of adventure for another, but no matter what, first of all, travel is one of the most beneficial forms of education. Let’s investigate some reasons.

You learn foreign languages

Everyone knows that theory and practice joint together gives the best and the fastest result in any study, especially concerning languages. After learning the basics with teachers, books, applications, or videos, you can improve your colloquial skills by talking to native speakers. And just immersion in the language environment is the best way to improve your speaking abilities. Sometimes it’s enough to spend a short time in a foreign country but get a strong push to start to speak without any fear.

And sometimes it occurs when you visit the countries where natives speak the language you don’t know and don’t study, but you may fall for the melody of the language or be attracted by the possibilities to come here again and communicate without problems, so it will be challenging for you to start learning one more language, who knows? Surely, in common, English is spoken in almost any part of the planet, and most often, it will work for you. Nevertheless, it is always better to know the language of the country you are going to visit. So, traveling makes you learn different languages.

You get acquainted with other cultures

While traveling, you always get new information about the world we are living in and get an acquaintance with different people with different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. It’s the best way to learn a lot of interesting things, and it’s in human nature to adopt new and take the best to make life more exciting. You may have been learning and reading and investigating the other country’s culture through books and films for a long time, but only meeting alive with sounds of cities and towns, cuisine flavors, and smells in the air can make your perception of the country complete.

Unfortunately, traveling also can bring some risks. It is a time consuming and rather tiring activity that requires preparation, attention, and sometimes it can even make you sick. If you find out that your writing routine is threatened, and your trip is not close to its ending, address a professional essay writing service, such as https://writemypaperhub.com and get your paper done online in no time by someone who are genuine experts.

You explore history through sightseeing

Yes, you probably studied ancient civilizations and major historical events as part of the educational program, but nothing compares with a personal visit to historical attractions, coupled with the discovery of many interesting facts.

You may know so much about everything in 10 days, which no one school program can propose. For example, you may wander through the ruins of the ancient Greek city with a map in hand and imagine how this island lived thousands of years ago. You may examine the maps and compare them with reality. At the same time, you may try to figure out why this particular island, despite its tiny size, the ancient Greeks chose as a religious and commercial center. And it’s much more exciting and useful than to look through the pictures in the textbooks.

You understand better what the world looks like today

Traveling tells you not only how the world was in the past, but also what it is today. You needn’t read an analysis of the economic situation in the region when you open your purse and spend your own money on buying food and making payments for transport. You may see by your eyes whether this country is so prosperous and totally calm as it was written in an encyclopedia or it is overcrowded with refugees and social situation is very tense at the moment. We must admit that not only the weather is changeable.

You learn about nature

Well, the Discovery channel is always there for you if you don’t like to travel. But it is much better to see at least some natural miracles on your own. Nature smells, nature inspires, nature breathes, and you cannot feel all that fully if you just watch everything online. So, get your backpack ready!

Travelling can cause a desire to get a deeper knowledge about the world around us, about its history, about its problems and ways to make our life better. And all this is impossible without education.

RV vacation tips for the summer of 2021

May 13, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Pit Stops for Kids is, at its roots, a resource for families who love to hit the road. We’ve evolved over the last decade to include destinations and vacations across the world, but during these uncertain times, we invite you to join us in returning to what we know best! For the summer of 2020, a road trip or camping trip might be the best vacation for your family. And we’re here to help you plan it safely.

As states slowly open up again to domestic travel, the challenge remains for families to be able to explore while social distancing. One ideal way to do this is with a camper van or RV vacation. Why? You and your family can social distance using your own:

dining area
bathrooms
sleeping quarters

You only patronize local restaurants and hotels when and where you feel it’s safe to do so. Get our RV camping tips here.

Tips for choosing where to go on a road trip or RV vacation:

Even if you can ensure self-containment within your RV or camper van for meals, bathrooms, and sleeping, you’ll want to vacation, right? This means picking a destination that’s open for tourism. Check national state park closure lists, but in the early planning stage, don’t be afraid to make campground reservations. Recreation.gov will cancel and refund you in the event that the campground is not yet open in time for your trip.

If you don’t want to camp at a designated campground, consider dispersed camping. Any BLM and national forest service land is free to camp on; pick up a local BLM map and call the ranger station for ideas. Remember that you’ll be off-the-grid while dispersed camping, so you’ll need to be self-reliant for power and heat, and will need to follow Leave No Trace principles.

A third option is HipCamp, which pairs RV campers and road trippers with private land available for camping. It’s like AirbnB for camping, and is a great way to socially distance while enjoying a new location. Check out our dispersed camping and HipCamp tips.

Once you have campground reservations or have decided on your dispersed camping option, do some research on your intended destination in general: are locals welcoming tourism to the area? Many are, but some regions are wary. Will local restaurants be open for take-out or delivery? Are local attractions, such as museums or parks, open? If not, think of alternative plans: are hiking trails in the area? Can you access greenways or bike paths?

We have successfully enjoyed a private campground experience, a HipCamp experience, and a Rec.gov campground experience since this spring, all while maintaining distance from others and utilizing our own kitchen areas, sleeping areas, and bathrooms in our camper van.

But what if you don’t own an RV or camper van?

You can rent one! RVshare is the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. Families can rent anything from a travel trailer to a luxury motorhome (and if you own an RV, RVShare is a great way to make some vacation cash while you’re staying at home). RVShare offers:

100,000 listings across the US
a worry-free rental guarantee
Rentals available in all 50 states
A safe and secure booking/payment platform
Instant bookable
24/7 Emergency roadside assistance on every booking
Pet-friendly options
Delivery and stationary options
Comprehensive Nationwide Protection: RVshare Rental Insurance covers both domestic and international renters and provides collision and comprehensive coverage

The average cost is $150/night and anyone with a valid driver’s license can drive. All drivers must be at least 25 years of age. By choosing an RV vacation this summer, you’ll save yourself the heartache of canceled airfare and have more control over your family trip during this time of uncertainty. Enjoy the outdoors!

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by RVShare. All opinions remain my own.

10 tips for camping with kids

May 7, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Are you thinking of taking your kids camping? Whether it’s your first camping trip or 20th camping adventure with the whole family, these tips for camping may change the way you “rough it” when you go camping with kids in tow. Picking a great kid-friendly campsite for your next family vacation is the first part, but packing the right supplies is just as important to ensuring camping fun!

Tip One – Pack Everything in Clear Tubs

Organizing your items before you go out is key to a successful camping trip, whether or not you bring kids. The goal is to make everything easy to find once you get to your spot, so you want to group like items together. Have one tub for kitchen items, food and snacks, toys, bathroom and bathing, clothes and laundry, sleeping bags and tents, and music and entertainment. This is a huge time saver before, during, and when you get back home and have to unpack everything. Also, it makes it easy to protect your items from the rain.

Tip Two – Bring a Load of Antibacterial and Baby Wipes

Since you’re out in the woods, you won’t have a dedicated area to go and give your kids a bath or shower. These wipes allow you to get a lot of the dirt and grime off your kids as they play. Set a towel or blanket down in front of your tents to give your kids an area to wipe off. This can help keep your tent clean. Also, bring along bug wipes or bug spray for the mosquitos that come out after dusk.

Tip Three – Set up Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements

Baby care is a big factor when looking for tips for camping. If you’re bringing a baby that sleeps in a crib, bring along a pack and play. Tossing an extra sheet across the top can keep bugs out, and they’re easy to move around as you cook. Another option is a portable bassinet. For the bigger kids, consider investing in a double camping cot that looks like a bunk bed. Not only does it save space, but it’s versatile. If you want to sleep directly on the ground, get a thicker foam mat and put it down first for extra cushion. Don’t forget comfortable pillows and sleeping bags.

Tip Four – Bring Along Entertainment Items

Your kids won’t be able to entertain themselves 100% of the time. The biggest thing you can do is bring a tub full of toys that are electronic-free and camping-friendly. Things they might like include bubbles, squirt guns, coloring books, balls, card games, camping bingo kits, bug catcher cases, blocks, or musical items. You want to have a nice variety that the kids can use throughout your trip to stay entertained. Also, plan to take them on short hikes or walks around the campsite.

Tip Five – Set up a Bath Station

Kids get dirty at home. Just imagine how dirty they’ll get when you’re outside for two or three days straight. You want to be able to set up a small bathing station. To do this, you’ll need to bring a plastic bath for babies or an extra plastic tub you can fill with water. Fill the tub in the morning and let the sun warm it up throughout the day. You can also get a solar-heated shower bag if you don’t have any lakes nearby to take a quick dip in.

Cute little sisters and their father roasting marshmallows on sticks at bonfire. Children having fun at camp fire. Camping with kids in fall forest. Family leisure with kids at autumn.

Tip Six – Take Nighttime Safety Into Consideration

Glow sticks are very easy to find, and they make it easy to spot your kids after the sun goes down. They can easily string together several for a necklace, and you can set them around your campsite for light. Another option you have is to buy headlamps for everyone to wear. Invest in a few hanging lanterns for the tent. Another option is to make your own lantern by filling a jug of water and putting a headlamp around it with the light facing inward. It’ll create a soft glow.

Tip Seven – Plan Easy Snacks and Meals

Being outside all day is one fast way to work up an appetite. To keep the kids full, pack easy snack ideas like apples, grapes, cheese sticks, bananas, sliced cucumbers, crackers, baby carrots, and raisins. To make it easy on you for mealtimes, precook meat items at home, so all you have to do is warm them up. Bratwurst and chicken are easy, and you can bring along things for sandwiches. Pack a few different cold cuts, cheese, or peanut butter and jelly for quick mealtime options.

Tip Eight – Check for Local Park Programs

If you plan to camp in a national park, check out Junior Ranger programs. Almost every national park has one, and your kids can get involved in a range of activities. The ages range from 5 to 13, and they have a ranger book that allows your kids to earn badges. Local state campgrounds might also offer staff-led activities that your kids can participate in. This can give the parents a short break while the kids learn educational but fun things during the program hours.

Tip Nine – Pack a Smaller Tent for Play Space

Your kids may like to play in the tent, but this can easily end up dirtying up their sleeping space. Instead, you should pack a smaller tent for the kids to give them a space to play. You can even store their toys in here as a bonus. This comes in very handy if the weather takes a turn and it starts to rain. This doesn’t have to be another full-sized tent, but it should be big enough for the kids to enjoy themselves and move around.

Tip Ten – Bring Extra Clothing

Having a warm sleeping bag may be key when you camp, but your kids should also have extra layers. It’s hard for smaller bodies to generate enough heat to stay continually warm. Make sure you pack outfits for each day but don’t be afraid to bring extra clothing. Don’t forget a pair or two of shoes with warm socks. The evening temperatures can drop significantly, and you want to have enough clothing to easily go around. Also, it’s easy for clothing to get wet, so pack a small clothesline that you can string between two branches and hang the clothes out.

Bottom Line

These top 10 tips for camping with kids will help you pull off a memorable and fun trip, no matter how old or young your children are. The parents will be able to relax a little and enjoy the trip too. Start small and work up to a larger trip, involve your kids, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Pros and cons of private campgrounds: alternatives to state and national parks

May 4, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

At Pit Stops for Kids, we love state parks and national parks for overnight camping and family outdoor adventure. But those campgrounds fill up fast during the peak summer season, and sometimes, they’re not ideal for RV camping families. If you need last-minute reservations or camping sites for larger RVs, check out the following private family campground resorts, all of which have locations across the U.S.

Tip: The following campgrounds fill up fast during the peak summer season, and sometimes, they’re not ideal for RV camping families. If you need last-minute reservations or camping sites for larger RVs, make sure you have all the necessary camping essentials, and check out the following private family campground resorts, all of which have locations across the U.S.

Thousand Trails:

Thousand Trails is unique in that it’s a club: for one annual membership, families can camp in unlimited family campgrounds across America. There are several levels of membership, and families who frequently RV camp in specific regions (what Thousand Trails calls ‘zones’) of the country report that they save planning time and quite a bit of money. Like most private family campgrounds, Thousand Trails offers more than just campsites: families have access to camp stores, laundry facilities, pools, and recreation like putt-putt golf or go-karts, depending on the resort. Most Thousand Trails properties are near tourist destinations, and there’s a wide variety especially around the Great Lakes region and coastal California.

Sun RV Resorts:

Like Thousand Trails, Sun RV Resorts are located across the U.S. with a high concentration in the midwest. Properties range from Wisconsin to Florida, and most everywhere in-between. With an emphasis on longer stays, some Sun RV Resorts even boast sports leagues to join. If you’re not an RV camper, there are a few properties with cabins to rent for the night or the week. Sun RV Resorts has some of the most competitive pricing for large, pull-through RV slots.

KOA Kampgrounds of America:

KOA has had it’s ups and downs in our personal experience: we’ve had great stays and lousy stays. What makes all the difference? The property. Since KOAs are individually owned, it’s hard to recommend the brand across the board: we recommend checking individual campground listings on family travel review sites like Trekaroo. We’ve personally had a great time renting KOA’s Kamping Kabins (ignore the annoying purposeful misspelling, if you will). With comfortable beds, tables, heaters, and electricity, these cabins are a good alternative to RV camping or even a motel room. Most KOAs have pools and other on-site recreation to entertain kids, and while many area near tourist attractions, and equal number are convenient to major freeways, making them good road trip pit stops.

Photo credit: Grand Canyon NPS

Dog friendly travel: Four tips when traveling with dogs

April 27, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

John is the founder of Perfect Dog Breeds a magazine focused on helping match dog-parents and dog breeds.

Whether you have a long road trip planned or you’re just popping to see your aunt there are certain things to think about before you load Fido into that SUV. Dog friendly travel is natural and easy for many pets, but there are times when dogs can get unsettled and stressed. We have put together our top tips for making any trips, long or short, as stress-free as possible for you and your pooch! Here’s what you need to know about traveling with dogs.

Image Credit: Well Pet Coach

For dog-friendly travel, get the right gear

We’re not talking snazzy collars or personalized water bowls for the car, we’re talking safety gear. Fido needs to be restrained on all trips – no matter how long or short.

Some owners choose to crate train their pooch in the car, some choose to attach a specific car harness to the seatbelt. This will largely depend on the style of your car – whether there is room in the trunk for a crate, or whether Fido has to go on the back seat.

If you choose the crate, it’s best to crate train him well before your first trip so he’s comfortable being locked in for periods of time. Likewise, allow Fido to get used to wearing a harness outside of the car! Lure Fido into the harness by holding a treat in the neck space. Praise and reward him whilst he is wearing it and distract him with a chew or toy. He’ll soon accept it when it’s associated with good things!

For treats, make sure to pack the extra delicious meaty kind to keep your dog happily busy throughout the ride. Dogs that are not used to long car rides can easily get anxious on trips; it helps to keep them occupied with a tasty treat or their favorite toy since it aids in reducing their stress levels.

Don’t forget an emergency kit for your pet! When traveling with pets, the emergency kit should include:

First aid supplies
Necessary paperwork
Extra water
Extra food
Medications your pets might be taking
A leash for your pets
Treats or toys

Has Fido ever been in the car before?

Start slowly. If Fido hasn’t been in the car before, you need to plan well in advance to get him used to traveling! Open the trunk or the back doors and let Fido sniff around and explore. If he’s going in a crate, open the crate and allow him to explore. Throw some treats into the crate. Don’t lock him in, just let him get comfortable.

Give him a treat in the crate and close the door. Let him out as soon as he’s finished his chew. You want him to associate the crate with good experience. If he’s being attached to a harness, clip him in and praise and reward him. Give him a chew on the back seat; release him as soon as he’s finished. Again, you want the same association.

Start With patience

After Fido has explored the car and isn’t really that bothered by it, start with a short journey – 5 minutes maybe. Praise and reward Fido when you’ve reached your destination or when you’ve come back home.

Some owners give their dog chews during the journey but here you run the risk of Fido choking or even being sick due to the motion of the car. DogGear would always advise keeping the treats for when you stop.

When traveling with dogs, easy does it

Slowly increase the length of your journeys. Watch for signs that Fido isn’t coping for example, whining, crying, whimpering, pacing, excessive panting, yawning or foaming at the mouth. These are all signs that he is stressed, so pull over as soon as it’s safe and take Fido out of the car. Let him calm down before you continue on your journey.

If possible, ask a helper to come along on your first few journeys so they can keep an eye on Fido’s behavior. You can then keep your attention firmly on the road. The last thing anyone wants is a lapse in your attention on the road because you are wondering what Fido is doing or if he’s OK.

Plan ahead for dog friendly travel

Once you are confident that Fido is comfortable in the car, you can plan your trips. Look for truck stops with open spaces where you can easily take Fido potty. Remember to take your poo bags and some bottled water with a bowl. Before you head off, take him for a walk and work on some mental stimulation. This will likely tire him out so he’s more likely to settle and even sleep in the car!

Whilst most dogs happily tolerate traveling, these steps will certainly help you on your way to making those trips as stress-free as possible. Plan ahead, get the right safety gear to restrain him and stock up on some tasty treats and chews to help Fido associate the car with good things! He’ll soon realize that those car trips usually end up as a wonderful adventure (vet visits aside of course)!

Travel with a cat? What to take with you

April 22, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Travel with a cat? Yes, you can! If you are going to arrange a trip in your furry friend’s company, it is worth taking some essentials to help your cat feel comfortable and stay safe.

Even though dogs are believed to be better travel buddies, cat owners don’t want to deprive themselves of a chance to share new experiences with their fluffy friends. Today we see a great tendency that most public places become pet-friendly, and it means that you can arrange a full-fledged adventure with a furry buddy without fear of being not let in somewhere. And if you want to hit the road and go camping, your kitty will be able to enjoy nature and explore the surroundings. Thus, you will kill two birds with one stone since you can go wherever you want, and don’t worry about leaving your buddy in a pet hotel. To make your travel experience comfortable and safe for your cat, it is worth reading redbarn cat food reviews and making a list of essentials you should grab with you when you travel with a feline buddy.

1. Collar and ID tag

Safety and prudence should be the number one priority when it comes to traveling with pets. You can be 100% sure that you will keep an eye on your cat around the clock, but the reality may turn out to be different. Something can distract you only for a minute, and your freedom-loving furry friend will decide to slip away and explore the territory. Therefore, it will not be superfluous to use a collar in combination with an ID tag and even a tracker, so you will be prepared for an unpredictable situation.

2. Carrier

Even though this point seems obvious, many cat owners turn a blind eye to it. However, if you have to leave your cat for a while, it is worth putting it in a carrier for its safety. If you have a home buddy that doesn’t know anything about outdoor life, it can get into trouble. Carriers represent a shelter where your kitty can feel secure and safe. Besides, if you travel by car, your cat will have better chances to survive if you get in an accident.

3. Veterinarian info

You are responsible for your cat’s life and health, so it will be a wise decision to have your vet’s info on hand even if you are going to travel around the country. If your feline buddy suddenly gets sick, your vet can contact a new doc and provide them with all the required info. It is especially true if your cat has some specific health issues, so your furry buddy will not get a treatment that can bring more harm than good.

4. Food and water

Of course, your traveling experience will turn out to be a catastrophe if you forget to take food and water for your kitty. Many people forget about essentials when they pack the bags. Thus, this point is a must even if you believe that you will grab some food on the way. You need some supply of food, water, and maybe some goodies. Thus, you will be ready for unforeseen circumstances and not make your cat get stressed and suffer from an upset stomach because of a sudden diet change.

5. Leash and harness

Cats easily get scared, and it can be hard to keep a firm grip on, so putting a leash and harness on your feline friend may become a safety ring. Your kitty will neither run away suddenly nor get lost. Besides, it will be easier to control it and walk together. Just be sure to use a harness instead of a collar in such a case since the latter can injure your furry buddy’s neck.

Everything you need to know about traveling with CBD

April 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

CBD is now available in everything from coffee to bath bombs, lotions, and even CBD oil dog treats. It is an emerging and flourishing topic in the health and wellness space. Many travelers are confused about its legality, especially when taking such products on a flight or traveling internationally.

Traveling with CBD:

Though travel may be restricted now, people will want to take the CBD-infused items with them before getting on that plane once things start opening up. Here are a few things that everyone should know about while traveling with CBD.

First, let’s look into what CBD is. It is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis – it is derived from the hemp plant, not marijuana. It contains only a small amount (less than 0.3 percent) of THC, which is the psychoactive compound that makes users feel “high.” Such trace amounts of THC do not produce any noticeable intoxicating side-effects.

Thanks to many laws being passed, hemp and hemp-derived products, such as CBD oil, are now legal. However, the CBD must be hemp-derived, which is different from being derived from the marijuana plant. Marijuana and hemp belong to the same species of plants. However, they are different- with hemp being usually described as non-intoxicating cannabis for industrial use of the products derived from it.

Since hemp-derived CBD is hundred percent legal in the United States, law-enforcement shouldn’t give anyone a hard time traveling with CBD. Hemp also comes in a form that looks very much like cannabis, which can pose a problem if you are stopped by the police, who may choose to detain you until they can ensure that it is hemp and not marijuana. Fortunately, CBD can now be found in many different things such as gummy’s, sodas, chocolates, conditioners, moisturizers, shampoos, capsules, tinctures, etc.

First, let’s talk about traveling with CBD oil domestically. The type of CBD that comes from hemp oil is legal at the federal level and is therefore allowed to be taken across state borders and flights. The CBD derived from marijuana is still illegal in some states, so it is recommended that you look into the state‘s laws while traveling across state borders.

You can differentiate between the two types of CBD by reading the product label to identify the amount of THC it contains. The only hemp-derived CBD oils with no more than 0.3 percent of THC levels are legal to fly with, so make sure you check that.

Because the origins of a specific product and its THC levels can sometimes be challenging to ascertain, many states are still reluctant to legalize CBD. In Texas, for example, any CBD product with a THC level greater than 0.0 percent remains illegal unless it has been prescribed or recommended by a qualified doctor to treat epilepsy. In that case, a patient could be given a product that contains no more than 0.5 percent THC.

The Food and drug administration (FDA) has also added another level of restriction to the legality of CBD. According to the FDA, CBD is not allowed to be added to food, cosmetic products, beverages, or supplements. For this reason, many states – even where marijuana products have been made legal for recreational use – have decided to ban CBD as a food additive.

CBD’s legality is tricky because of rapidly shifting regulations and confusion surrounding the difference between hemp and marijuana. Because of this, there are often different opinions and a disconnect amongst law enforcement officials.

CBD helps travelers relax as it reduces stress and anxiety and is also known to help with jetlag. Daily CBD Mag has a helpful article about CBD oil.

As long as it is clearly labeled, it should not be a problem to keep it in your carry-on while flying. It is still recommended that you don’t take CBD products that resemble and look like marijuana, as it could prolong your security check and add unnecessary stress to your trip.

International regulations and rules on CBD are, of course, more complicated if your itinerary includes multiple destinations. It is of the utmost importance to research the country’s laws that you’re traveling to while traveling abroad. Many countries have much stricter drug lawyers, and professionals strongly advise playing it safe and leaving products with any cannabinoids at home if you are unsure of the laws.

Regulations for CBD oil when it comes to cruises are also varied. Some cruise lines ban it together, so the best option would be to contact the cruise line directly in such a case. Do not forget that there are security scanners as you board a cruise ship, so don’t try to hide your CBD products.

CBD oil offers many benefits for travelers, mostly as it regulates the body‘s immune system, organs, and neurotransmitter systems, helping with traveling symptoms like sleeplessness and tiredness, amongst others. It is especially recommended for long flights to decrease soreness and stiffness, help regulate sleep patterns with the time change, and help reduce anxieties known to affect people while in the air. Kyro has a helpful article where you can read more about CBD oil.

The regulations are so new that some TSA agents might not yet be familiar with the products, which could lead to some delays in your travel plans. However, more agents are being briefed on new regulations, so as long as you have taken the necessary precautions, it shouldn’t be a problem.

Needless to say, though, you should take the required cautionary steps and check the CBD oil possession laws of both the state/country you are traveling to and the state/country you’re traveling from. It is also recommended that you print out the product lab report and have it available if you are needed to verify the cannabinoid content to any enquiring authorities. And of course, if you’re traveling with CBD products as a medication, you should always keep the prescription handy just like you would with any other prescribed medicine.

Five easy tips for saving money when traveling with kids

April 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

With the summer travel season nearly upon us, the urge to see the world and take in the sights can understandably be higher than ever. However, while traveling with the kids is an amazing opportunity to explore new destinations from a fresh perspective, it can quickly get costly if you don’t plan ahead and stick to a budget. Still, if you find that sitting at your desk too long is leading to unwanted neck cracking and tension — and you’re starting to get more than a little bit stir crazy — then you’ll want to check out these five easy tips for saving money when traveling with your children.

Tips for saving money when traveling:

Be Flexible with Dates

If you’re planning your perfect weekend getaway this summer, you may want to take a closer look at the word “weekend”… and definitely try to steer away from it. During peak travel periods, weekend excursions can unfortunately be much more expensive than weekday travel, adding to your vacation costs. This is not only true for flights, which can be almost half the price on Sundays or Tuesdays, but it’s also true for hotels. The same hotel that may go for $350 per night on Friday and Saturday can be just a fraction of that rate during the weekdays.

Skip the Restaurants

Of course, one of the more fun things about traveling is checking out new restaurants and local hole-in-the-wall diners. However, if you’re looking to save cash when traveling, you may want to give those restaurants a hard pass. Not only are they quite expensive, but they’re also packed with hidden grease and salt, too. That said, if you can’t give up the thrill of trying new fare when traveling, you should maybe consider dining in for breakfast or lunch. Preparing your coffee and some bagels in your hotel room, or packing sandwiches for the road, can save you big bucks when on vacation.

Go Far (Or Stay Near!)

Depending on where you decide to go, your destination alone may be a major consideration for slashing the price you pay. For instance, once you add up airfare and resort fees, you may find it wiser to just stay within driving distance. (Road trips, anyone?) On the other hand, faraway destinations can also be much more affordable than you might realize. When you consider the cost of living in other regions and how far your dollar may go, gathering up the kids and boarding a plane to a faraway, exotic destination may actually be the wiser financial decision for your next family vacation.

Check Out Bundles

With many tourist hotspots driving up prices for all the added-on perks, you may think that less is more when trying to save money on your next trip. That may actually be the complete opposite, though! Many locations may try to draw in travelers by incentivizing doing more during your stay. For instance, getting multi-passes from your destination of choice may actually be a huge money saver, allowing you to maximize your time there. Consider picking up tourist passes from the city center of your destination, and don’t be afraid to compare prices. You may find yourself saving quite a bit by doing it this way!

Remember the Kids

When traveling with your children, you’re not actually thinking about forgetting them, are you? While that may seem like a silly idea — after all, your goal is to bring them along, not just dump them in the hotel — you may be forgetting something very important about traveling with the kids. Many places offer incentives for families, such as free airfare for kids under the age of two, or free breakfasts at certain hotels for your children. When looking to keep your costs down when traveling, don’t underestimate the money you’ll save simply by bringing your children along with you.

Traveling with your family doesn’t have to be an unpleasant foray in cutting corners and missing out on all the fun stuff that you want to do. In fact, a family vacation can be one of the most rewarding ways to bond with your kids, allowing you to make the most out of your time with them and creating amazing memories together. By following these five easy tips, you can save tons of money on your next trip, making it all the more easy to save up for future travels with your family!

How to pick a dude ranch for your family trip

April 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Dude ranch vacations have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They combine the peace of mind and convenience of an all-inclusive vacation with the nostalgia of summer camp, all against a backdrop of beautiful wilderness and lively adventure. The best will offer a range of activities that appeal to your whole family, but each ranch specializes in different things and has different strengths and weaknesses. The task of finding the right one for your needs can feel daunting. Here’s how to pick a dude ranch for your family trip, plus top ranches in each of four general categories.

Step 1: Ask yourself the following questions

1. Is horseback riding the most important aspect of a dude ranch vacation for our family?

If the answer is yes, choose from ranches that emphasize their riding programs above all else. These ranches tend to be the best pick for advanced, experienced riders who seek more freedom in their rides.

If the answer is no, you’ll want to look for a ranch that offers a wider range of more generalized activities, or risk booking a ranch that’s all horseback riding, all the time. Many will offer golf, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and rafting in addition to riding.

2. Are your kids all over at the age of 6-8 years?

If the answer is no, you’ll need to look carefully at the fine print of each dude ranch site, to make sure your kids will be able to participate. At many ranches, kids under age 6-8 (depending on the ranch) cannot join riding programs. Some ranches will offer babysitting or childcare services, but most will require you have an adult in your party willing to forego activities to watch young kids. We highly recommend waiting to take a dude ranch vacation when all kids are over age six, at least.

3. How important is your dining experience at the ranch?

If ranch cuisine is very important, you’re in luck: there are certainly ranches offering gourmet dining experiences. If not, you’ll certainly have more options, and can expect food that falls in the upscale family style buffet category.

4. Will you be combining your dude ranch vacation with other destinations in the same trip?

If yes, look for ranches near vacation destinations that appeal to you, and make your dude ranch stay part of a longer road trip. While some ranches are truly apart from major towns, most will be in ‘gateway’ regions, such as a gateway to the Rockies or Sierras, to a national park, or to a city.

5. Do you want to make new friends, or bond as a family?

At some dude ranches, you can certainly do both, but at others, the kids’ program is separate from the adult program, making the experience is much more like ‘camp’ for the kids. If you have social butterflies who can’t wait to meet new kids, this may be perfect. Pick a ranch with a kids’ program that extends beyond riding to kids’ dining and kids’ afternoon activities. If you want to eat meals as a family and ride as a family, pick a ranch that is structured in this way, and avoid ranches that promote kids’ only dining and adults’ only activities.

Step 2: Narrow down your choices

Use a site such as the Dude Ranchers’ Association or a dude ranch round-up to identify specific ranches that will meet your needs. We recommend staying open-minded regarding ranch location as long as possible, placing a higher emphasis on ranch amenities and programs than on geography. To help you along, we compare and contrast three excellent ranches below. Note that while all are amazing ranches, they offer very different experiences.

Triangle X Ranch in Moose, Wyoming:

Triangle X Ranch gives families quite a bit of rein (pun of course intended). Two rides per day are scheduled for those who wish for them, as well as an all-day ride for adults and optional overnight pack ride for teens. Beginning riders are accommodated, but the focus is definitely on advanced riders. Kids eat and ride separately from adults. Triangle X is open year round, with snow sports offered instead of horseback riding in winter. It’s located inside Grand Teton National Park, with absolutely stunning views. Read a full review of Triangle X.

Pros:

fun, exciting rides
beautiful setting
excellent evening programs and educational components
separate programs (including riding and dining) for adults and kids
nice cabin accommodations

Cons:

Inexperienced riders may feel in over their heads
separate programs for adults and kids
Meals are serviceable, but nothing fancy
WiFi in town only

Three Bars Ranch, Cranbrook, British Columbia:

Three Bars Ranch is set against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, and offers a riding program that’s more family-focused. Rides are more flexible, with families able to decide whether to ride together or separately (kids together, with friends, etc) on the morning of each day. Rides are on the controlled side, with options to pick up speed as the week goes on. The ranch is picturesque, and many additional activities are offered. Read a full review of Three Bars.

Pros:

Beautiful grounds with comfortable cabins
WiFi available
family-focused with flexibility for mingling with others
safe horse program
multiple additional activities offered
above-average food
wranglers spend time with guests on and off the trails

Cons:

horse program may be too ‘tame’ for some advanced riders

Tanque Verde Ranch, Tuscan Arizona:

If you want luxury, head to Tanque Verde in the Southwest, or go north to Paws Up in Montana. Both ranches offer a full spa as well as decidedly upscale cuisine. Guests are lodged in luxury dwellings and service is on par with top luxury resorts. Don’t worry: kids aren’t forgotten; they still have a full program of offerings.

Pros:

dining is amazing
service is outstanding

Cons:

high price
riding sometimes takes a backseat to spa treatments or golf

Aspen Ridge Resort, Bly Oregon:

Want a non all-inclusive option? Several ranches in Central and Southern Oregon, such as Aspen Ridge, offer ranch programs with a more B&B feel. Families stay in log cabins with full kitchens, make their own meals, and plan only the number of horseback rides they want. The setting is lovely, and families get a good sense of what a working ranch really feels like. In addition to riding, families can bike, hike, and play tennis. Aspen Ridge is open year round, with snowshoeing offer in winter.

Pros:

stays can be shorter than the standard week
price can be lower, since you pay a la carte
dates are more flexible than an all-inclusive ranch

Cons:

riding is individualized, not in a program (could be a pro)
dining is on your own, or in Aspen Ridge’s dining room (a la carte)

Have you gone on a dude ranch vacation? What’s your pick?

Photo credit: Ken Bosna, Amy Whitley

Choosing the right snack bags for road trips

April 8, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Going on a road trip can be a lot of fun, but when you have children, it can make things a little challenging. You have to find ways to keep them entertained, and goodness knows they will eventually start complaining about being hungry. Chances are it will be at a time when there isn’t a restaurant in sight. That is why is a great idea to pack snack bags for road trips for each of your children.

Of course, choosing the wrong bag can also create problems. Your general brown paper sack doesn’t really cut it. They break too easily and offer no insulation. You are much better off with a soft style bag. Luckily, there are many of them from which to choose. When deciding on a bag, you should consider the following points so you end up with bags that will help make your trip much more pleasant.

Choose Something That Makes Eating Easy

One of the biggest challenges of feeding kids in a vehicle is there is no real great place to set out food. Balancing acts usually result in huge messes. So, if you can find a lunch box that has a built-in tray, it can be very helpful. It provides a nice organized way for your kids to eat. It also can keep food separated, which for some kids is a must. There is no reason for you to have to deal with complaints about this food touching that food.

Choose Something With Easy Access

You also should try to find a container that is easy to get into. Depending on the age of your children, they might not be able to easily open zippers, so consider a flap style that is simple to open up or a tote style that just snaps together and be reached right into. You certainly don’t want to have to be turning around, opening everyone’s bags as you are flying down the road.

Choose Something That Makes It Easy to Pack a Variety of Items

Kids are known for being picky when it comes to food. What may have been their most favorite thing at breakfast time suddenly becomes “gross” by the end of the day. You just never know what a kid will come up with when it comes to food. So, you have to pack a nice variety of snacks in their bags. In addition, you are likely going to need to pack items of different weights.

This means you need a lunch box that will hold different foods and allow you to keep delicate foods from getting crunched. There are lunch bags that have multiple compartments, which allow you to put heavy items, like water bottles or apples, in a bottom compartment, while putting lighter items in a top compartment. You may also find bags that have a separate drink bottle with its own compartment, which is great because you can easily refill it. It also helps to choose an insulated bag. This will let you pack warm or cold foods.

Choosing the right snack bags to take on a road trip can make the trip much more enjoyable for everyone. A simple choice like which bag to use may not seem like that big of a deal, but in the end, it can be the one thing that helps keep everyone happy.