family travel - Pitstops for Kids

Mega cruise guide to family cruise vacations

March 3, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Wondering how to pick the right cruise? Our cruise guide will steer the way! A cruise is a great way to enjoy multiple destinations while only unpacking once. Cruisers combine the convenience of an all-inclusive resort with the adventure of ports of call and international experiences. However, planning a cruise involves a special set of considerations that planning your average trip does not. How will you get to your departure port? Should you book excursions ahead of time? What does your ship include in the fare? Here’s what you need to know to plan the perfect cruise, using our cruise line comparison chart and more!

Cruise Guide: What Type of Cruiser do You Want to be?

The first decision to make in the cruise planning process is to pick the type of cruise that’s best for you. If budget is a primary factor, a large, budget cruise ship will work nicely. Most sail for 5–7 days to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Central America, and Alaska. Large cruise ships mean bigger crowds but they offer more onboard amenities, like multiple restaurants, pools, rock-climbing walls, and bigger gyms and spas. If budget is not a concern but onboard amenities are still important, opt for a mid-sized luxury ship, which will be more personalized with great service and (usually) true all-inclusiveness, with drinks and exercise classes included in your fare.

If unique ports of call and an active itinerary are more important to you than onboard amenities, consider a small cruise ship. These ships, which hold fewer than 200 passengers in most cases, are highly personalized, and they can stop at smaller ports off the beaten path. Many small cruise ships include daily opportunities to snorkel, kayak, hike, and photograph wildlife, but they will cost more than traditional cruises.

Once you’ve decided on the type of cruising that works for you, it’s time to pick a cruise line. Compare lines by looking at their destination ports (where do you want to leave from?), the itineraries they offer (this is where you’ll choose between tropical cruises, Alaskan cruises, and European cruises, for instance), and their levels of inclusiveness.

The best way to compare cruise lines, prices, itineraries is to check a reputable cruise agency with years of experience in organizing cruise trips. Your best bet for finding early birds and simply enjoying the trip goes for Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises.

Note that while virtually all cruise lines include room and board in their fares, some are truly all-inclusive, including alcohol, all excursions, and activities. Most charge extra for drinks, some onboard activities, and all excursions. Almost all lines prohibit bringing your own liquor or beer onboard, though most allow up to two bottles of wine. Ships store wine and liquor purchased at ports until disembarkation. Cruise lines that do not include alcohol in their cruise fares offer alcohol packages; do the math to determine whether such a package makes sense for you.

Planning Your Cruise Transportation and Getting Settled

Once you’ve settled on a cruise, it’s time to figure out how you’ll get to your embarkation port. One thing all cruises have in common is that they will leave without you. Therefore, plan to arrive the day before your departure if you’re flying to your port and plan to arrive several hours before boarding time if driving. You can even plan to drive the day before and stay the night at a port-side hotel (many will allow you to park your car there instead of at the port for less money).

If you’re flying to your port, look for a pre-cruise hotel that offers a shuttle service to your cruise or that is within an easy Uber fare. Check in online before you arrive to the port for ease of boarding; almost all cruise lines offer this service. Be sure to bring the paperwork that your cruise line requires, including your passport. Most cruise lines allow you to start the embarkation process by 11:30 am on the day of departure, which gives passengers time to eat a leisurely lunch while waiting for their staterooms to be ready.

Tip: Pack a day bag with swimsuits and essentials so you don’t have to wait for your bag to be delivered before enjoying the pool. Consider booking a massage or other spa service for your embarkation day to get you into “cruise mode.” These services are usually discounted on the first day.

Making the Most of Cruise Excursions

While onboard amenities are fun, you probably aren’t going on a cruise just to stay on the ship at every port. To avoid long lines at guest services during your cruise, book your excursions online before departure if you’re booking them through the cruise line. If you’re booking excursions independently, plan to book them for mid-morning on your days in port since many large cruise ships give priority disembarkation to passengers booked on cruise-specific excursions. Booking independently has its perks, however – you’ll usually save some money, you’ll help the local economy by paying tour operators directly, and you’ll avoid crowds of cruise passengers. To find safe, reputable excursions on your own, contact the local tourism board before your trip and make arrangements with verified businesses ahead of time. However, it’s important to remember the first rule of cruising: your cruise WILL leave without you if you’re not back on time. If your ship has limited time at a port (under 6–8 hours), it’s usually safest to book official cruise line excursions that guarantee your prompt return to the ship.

Planning to Disembark

At the end of your cruise, you’ll likely have an early-morning disembarkation. The process is known to go slowly since all passengers need to go through customs, but you can make it go faster by hanging onto your carry-on luggage (instead of putting it out the night before). Have your paperwork ready, and schedule a late-afternoon or evening flight home to be on the safe side.

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Source: Fix.com Blog

Five family outdoor adventure vacations worth planning for

February 24, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Embarking on a jungle trek in search of sloths. Skiing fresh powder accessible only by snow-cat. Climbing up a waterfall using only a rope tied to a tree. These kinds of adventures are not behind you now that you have kids. If anything, with the right planning and the right guides and tour operators, they’re perfect for families who want the chance to explore the outdoors beyond a nature walk or zip-line.

Five family outdoor adventure vacations to take with your kids:

A jungle cruise you can’t find at Disney:

Have you heard of Uncruise? It’s a company doing exactly what the name implies: taking your preconceived idea of what a ‘cruise’ entails out of your mind, and replacing it with something better. We took Uncruise’s adventure itinerary through Panama and Costa Rica, where every day started with a briefing on the day’s excursions over a gourmet breakfast. Unlike on a large ship, you’re off the ship (in a new destination) at least twice per day, hiking the jungle, kayaking, paddle-boarding and swimming, and wildlife watching. Uncruise vacations are offered throughout the year, with nice discounts in the shoulder seasons (mainly non-holiday periods when kids are in school). Read more about Uncruise’ Panama and Costa Rica itinerary.

A bucket-list trip to the land of Machu Picchu:

Every day of a Vantage Adventures trip to Peru, you’re outside and doing things that feel like a challenge, whether that challenge is walking up seemingly endless stone steps to the top of a UNESCO-protected antiquity or gathering ingredients for a group dinner at a bustling Cusco outdoor market. My point: adventure doesn’t always have to mean ‘extreme’ adventure. ‘Soft’ adventure can bring families together just as easily, and young kids can participate. Get a glimpse of what’s in store in Peru.

A whitewater camping trip:

When you raft an American river with OARS, my hands-down favorite family rafting operation, you get a camping trip and rafting trip in one. Even if you’ve never slept a night in a tent before embarking on a river, you’ll feel like an expert by the time you’re done four or five days later. Many families report that this is where their own traditions of camping began. If you’re a family accustomed and experienced in the outdoors, OARS will still bring on the challenges with whitewater, personal ‘ducky’ kayaks to command, and side hikes up to jumping rocks, to hot springs, and to waterfalls. Learn more about OARS trips.

An RV vacation under the Midnight Sun:

Maybe you’ve been on an RV vacation road trip, but have you done it in Iceland? In summer, the sun literally never sets, which means adventure is a 24-hour endeavor (much to my kids’ delight). Once you get the hang of driving one of Iceland’s many camper rentals on their narrow roads, you’ll be off and running…to glaciers, hot springs, geothermal pools and hiking trails. Do as much or as little as you want, and plan your itinerary as you go. Read more tips on Iceland camper vacations.

A week of Wild West adventure:

Maybe you’re not ready to tackle a glacier yet, or you don’t know if you can trek all the way to Central or South America. Maybe you just want to get your kids on horseback, learn to fly fish, or spend your days hiking and biking. A dude ranch vacation is like summer camp for grown-ups, because you’ll play right alongside your kids all day, and never have to worry about cooking, planning, or driving. Just wait for the dinner bell each evening (and maybe try your luck at rodeo or gymkhana games). Read our guide to planning a dude ranch vacation for next summer.

Why you want to invest in travel insurance for any family adventure trip:

Adventure trips that involve specialized guides, exotic destinations or extreme conditions are expensive and can sometimes be delayed or derailed by weather or other aspects out of our control. We never pay for a bucket list-worthy trip without buying Allianz Travel insurance. The Allianz Premier Plan is one of their annual plan options and covers everyone in your household…perfect for families. It gives me the peace of mind I need to hit that ‘book’ button. Why Allianz Travel? Read why this is the travel insurance we trust here.
Your credit card or health insurance at home may not cover you in full, and your airline won’t reimburse you or offer you credit in the case of weather-related delays or cancellations.
You want to be covered in case YOU have to cancel, for whatever reason.
You definitely want to forego all of that extra coverage every car rental company wants you to tack onto your reservation.

**General tips to ensure you won’t need to use that travel insurance:**

Fly into your departure destination at least a full day before any adventure cruise. Remember, if you’re delayed for any reason, the ship will not wait for you.
Opt for public transportation when possible, and hire local drivers in difficult-to-navigate areas.
Pay attention to seasons and weather. Will it be hurricane season where you’re going? How about wildfire season (in the American West?). Always, always invest in travel insurance when traveling during high-risk seasons.
Always pack a well-stocked first aid kit, that includes any prescription or over-the-counter medications your family regularly needs. For our crew, this means stashing plenty of antihistamine tablets for those of us with severe seasonal allergies and minor food allergies.
Prepare for any weather discomfort with the right clothing. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy the best of everything, but it does require an investment. Think sun protection and layering: make sure everyone in the family has wool or synthetic base layer items to wear against the skin for any outdoor adventure trip, wool socks, and a down or down-alternative puffer jacket and rain jacket.

This post is written in partnership with Allianz Travel, my preferred travel insurance provider. All opinions are my own.

Hassle-free guide to getting your US passport for kids

January 13, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Need a US passport for kids? Getting your child his or her first passport doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it sounds. Yes, you need to clear an afternoon or morning to the task, and yes, there’s a wait time involved, but the process is simpler than most people realize. Here’s what you need to know for getting a US passport for kids:

Where should I go to get the passport?

In most cases, you’ll need to go to your local post office. I know, I know, but at least it’s better than the DMV, right? To find an office or agency issuing passports in your area, simply plug in your zip code into this site, and get a list of locations. Many people hope it’s possible to apply for a first passport online or by mail: this is not the case. You’ll need to physically apply in person. And your kids will need to be there too! Call and ask if the office closest to you accepts appointments. If not, prepare to wait in line. Note: most passport offices run on government business hours and close early (ours takes its last passport appointment at 3:45 pm), and are closed on weekends. In order to get the whole family there to apply, you may need to take kids out of school for an hour or so. Annoying? Yes. Necessary? Often.

When should I apply?

Apply at least 12 weeks before international travel. When we applied for our kids’ first passports, they came in the mail well before this time period (more like four weeks), but trust me, you don’t want to sweat it right before your departure. Nor do you want to pay for an expedited process if you don’t have to. Plus, applying early gives you wiggle room should something go wrong: it’s fairly common that photos need to be retaken or addresses get entered incorrectly. This way, you have time to re-do the process.

What passport type does my child need, and how much will it cost?

If you’ll be traveling internationally by air, your child needs a Passport book (the standard passport you’re probably picturing in your mind). If you’ll be traveling by cruise ship, you’ll need to check with your cruise line, as various countries have different requirements, but may be able to travel only with a Passport Card. If you’re traveling by car to Canada, parents will need passport books, but kids can enter the country with valid original birth certificates (as of the time of this posting). However, it’s a much faster process at the border if kids have passport books that can be scanned like their parents’. Note: if only one parent is bringing kids into Canada from the US, any parent with joint custody must submit a signed letter of consent. Notarize it and bring it with you!

Passport books for kids (0-16 years) are $80 and must be renewed every five years. Passport cards are only $15. Start here to determine eligibility and passport type.

What documents will I need?

When you’re applying for passort, you must go to the passport agency or passport office with your child or children (the passport applicants) and bring his or her original birth certificate, plus a photo ID for you. You’ll need to give parental consent for the passport, fill out all forms (if you haven’t filled them out at home), and pay all fees. You can download the application right here to save time.

Where should I purchase passport photos?

To apply for a passport, passport photos can almost always be taken (and paid for) at the passport office where you apply, but can sometimes be cheaper elsewhere. For convenience, we took our children’s passport photos at the post office when we applied, but if you decide to go elsewhere, make sure the photo is 2″ by 2″, and has the proper background. I’d only trust this task to a photo or portrait business who specializes in passport photos.

Not so hard, right? You’ll be given a receipt onsite, then can expect your passports to arrive in the mail within 12 weeks. Now, you just need tips for going through customs with kids!

Travel planning: When and why to partner with a family vacation planner

November 4, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Here at Pit Stops for Kids, we’re of a DIY mentality. If you’re a regular reader here, you probably are, too. We encourage you to travel by offering as much useful, free information as we can, so you can make informed decisions before booking your family vacations.

But…and this is a big but! We have used a family vacation planner for some very specific trips, and think you should, too. Bringing in a very specific expert can, sometimes, mean the difference between a good and a great family trip. Wondering when and why to partner with a family vacation planner? Read on!

When and why a family vacation planner may be a smart idea:

When you’re planning that bucket list-worthy vacation and you want it to be epic. You know the type of trip I’m talking about: that dream African safari or that once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Patagonia. Maybe you want to check out the Galapagos Islands or perhaps you want to spend a full month in Europe. You’ve heard me suggest travel insurance for this type of expensive, dream trip. I also suggest a family vacation planner for essentially the same reason: it’s just too important a trip to mess around!
When you need a destination vetted: A good family vacation planning service has been on the ground at destinations that can be tricky to figure out on your own. An example that comes to mind: Iceland is a country that’s easy to travel in but hard to picture before you get there. While it’s easy enough to explore Iceland by camper van, it’s more complicated to find the right-for-you hotel rooms should you want to travel in more comfort. I recently referred a traveler to a trusted family vacation planner to book Iceland hotel rooms, since I know this planner has stayed in nearly all of the best ones!
When you simply don’t have time to plan: We’re all busy people. Maybe you simply don’t have time to plan that family vacation that deserves careful preparation. Maybe you simply don’t enjoy the planning phase of a trip. It’s a common misconception that only novice travelers use family travel planners. I know (and have referred) very savvy travelers to planning services. It’s okay to come to the planner with lots of ideas and recommendations…they can work with you whether you need a lot of help, just a little help, or something in-between. Planners are well-used to helping people who are used to doing it all themselves.
If you’re looking for value (but not a quick deal): Value seekers will do well with family vacation planners. Deal seekers, not so much. If you’re truly looking for the cheapest Caribbean spring break package or the lowest cost flight to London, DIY is best. But if you are willing to pay for value, which, to me, means trusted advice and the peace of mind of knowing that what you’ve paid for will provide your family with the best experience, a planner is the right move.

How to work with a family vacation planner:

Email us! If you have a family vacation question, we encourage you to reach out via email or Facebook page. Often, all you need is a little encouragement–you got this!–or a quick bit of advice. But we can also let you know when we think a family vacation planner will best serve your needs, and, with your permission, can refer you to our favorites. A family vacation planner starts by getting to know you and your travel needs in an informational phone call, and services can be set up from there. Give it a try!

Have you worked with a family vacation planner? What was your experience?

Multigenerational travel tips: vacationing with a large group

September 26, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

We have a lot of multigenerational travel tips! Large-group vacations are a fantastic opportunity to get away with your family, friends, and loved ones. Family members who live far apart can reconnect and friends can get away from the daily grind to enjoy one another’s company. Don’t let the generation gap get in the way, though – it is possible to plan a large group vacation that appeals to everyone, from the very young to retirees. Make sure no one feels left out, no one gets bored, and everyone stays engaged in the fun with these tips.

Amy and her kids at Arches National Park, UT

The first step is getting to your vacation destination! Planning for a large group can feel daunting, but you can actually use your large number to your advantage. When booking a hotel or family reunion venue or renting cars, always ask for group rates. Many destinations are happy to know they can count on the revenue from a large group, and they will reward you with a discount. Remember, booking a large group at a restaurant, tour, or all-inclusive resort can require a pre-set gratuity amount, often 15–20%.

Traveling with a large group does mean you need to book far in advance when possible. A good rule of thumb is to book at least a few months longer in advance than you would for a small family unit. At popular vacation destinations with limited lodging, book at least 9–12 months in advance. Ask to speak to the hotel’s large-group booking agent or marketing director for the best service and to get the most accurate, timely answers to your questions.

If you’re planning a trip with a lot of moving parts, such as a city vacation with multiple tours and dining reservations or an international trip with multiple flights, vehicle rentals, and hotel rooms, consider using a travel agent. A good agent’s expertise will come in handy when seeking group discounts and talking with travel professionals.

While it helps to book most aspects of your trip as a group, airfare can be more affordable in smaller groups since seats on a plane are grouped into tiered pricing. For example, if five seats are available in the price category you desire and you ask for eight, the reservation system will often show no seats available in your category (even though you could get five of the eight for your price). Instead, book airfare in smaller family configurations to ensure that family members sit together but you still get the lowest possible fare.

Once you arrive at your group family vacation destination, the generation gap can become evident. Baby boomers in the family may want to take in a show or visit a museum at a city destination, or they may not have the necessary mobility to hike a challenging trail at a mountain destination. Generation Xers and millennials, on the other hand, have the energy to explore the outdoors or a cityscape aggressively, but they may have younger children who need childcare or extra attention. Generation Yers may want a destination with lots of nightlife options, while their parents long for peace and quiet.

You can bridge the gap by finding a destination that offers multiple activity choices within the same general area so family members can still meet up each day for a meal or a group activity. If your destination or resort does not meet this need, plan your activities with everyone’s needs in mind. Visit museums that have mobility options for elderly family members and the interactive displays children crave. Patronize restaurants with outdoor seating areas where young kids can play or stretch their legs while the adults visit. Pick tours with shorter durations to keep younger family members’ attention and avoid tiring out elderly members.

So what destinations will fit the bill? If your group vacation will take place in a specific city, such as for a family reunion or group event (like a wedding or sporting event), look for a hotel with conference center facilities – these will be best equipped to accommodate your group. If you’re more flexible about your destination, consider a cruise if everyone wants to see as much as possible or an all-inclusive resort if everyone would rather stay put and relax.

Some of our favorite active locations and experiences for large family groups:

Whichever type of vacation destination families choose, flexibility is key to a successful large-group trip. Offer several choices of activity each day, opt for a take-out pizza instead of a lengthy sit-down dinner a few times, and be ready to travel at someone else’s pace. Have a great vacation!

Source: Fix.com Blog

Best budget-friendly destinations

July 17, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Traveling is a wonderful notion, as you get to spend some time at your favorite place(s). You can refresh your mind, and eliminate all the stress that a normal lifestyle leaves on you. It is certainly a great activity to stay creative, constructive and healthy. But traveling does require a lot of money, and it is very difficult to plan and execute a trip on a budget. However, my travel advice to the esteemed reader will be to visit destinations that are budget-friendly and offer exquisite getaway. In this blog post, I am going to tell my readers which holiday destinations they can visit in a budget, and enjoy a great time. So read this article and learn about different budget-friendly holiday destinations.

Best budget-friendly destinations for holiday:

However, before I present my best budget holiday destinations, I will like to tell my readers about a great way to save their valuable money. Whenever you want to travel, you can find cheap flight tickets offers from the platform of a renowned travel agency. They will not only find cheap flights for you to your destination, but also find cheap hotel accommodations, travel transfers, and local transportations. This is the best way to travel, and when you have a budget to follow, there is no better way.Best budget friendly destinations for holiday

Laos

Located in South East Asia, Laos is truly a fun destination. Although this country is massively overlooked due to its location, it is still an amazingly beautiful place to visit with friends, family or loved one. This landlocked country is sparingly populated with mountainous terrain and a forest landscape that covers 70% of the total country’s area. With such an amazing terrain, Laos is a perfect getaway for some amazing activities such as trekking, mountain climbing, kayaking, hot air ballooning, zip-lining, and much more.

Argentina

Argentina is one of the cheapest countries to travel in the world. This fact will make it one of the most ideal places for anyone who wants to travel on the budget in 2019. As Argentinian currency is massively devaluing in comparison with any Western currency, it is becoming much easier to explore this place. You can visit the highest mountain in the world outside the Asian continent in the Andes, which is known as Aconcagua. You can also visit Patagonia for some elite trekking and mountain climbing experience. The famous cities include Cordoba, Salta, and Buenos Aires. You can also visit the infamous waterfalls of Foz do Iguacu. Enjoy every bit of this country in a budget and post all the pictures on social media.

Georgia

Georgia is a Caucasian country on the borders of Asia and Europe. This country is quite inexpensive to visit, and a truly beautiful place to visit. You can visit this place in the lowest bucks, and get amazed by all the sceneries and serene cities. This place has all the potential to become your first love for all the good reasons. The mountains of Caucasus are truly beautiful and unique, as well as never-ending grass plains, cultural cities, and villages. You can also visit the black sea that touches the shores of Georgia.

Nepal

Nepal is one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world. The best thing about this country is that it can be visited on a very low budget. This country has the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, along with some other highest peaks of the Himalayas and the world. For this reason, Nepal is a tourist magnet for everyone especially mountain lovers. This country has other places to offer to such as wildlife parks, cultural cities, temples, markets, and much more. Plan a trip to Nepal and you will never regret it.

Romania

Romania is a very beautiful country in Europe, and it has great potential to exceed all the limits of expectation of any visitor. This Transylvanian country has some of the most cultural medieval towns, cities, churches, food, and an amazing Carpathian mountain range. Little is known or marketed about this country, but once you visit it, it can become your favorite destination. The legend of Dracula originated from Romania, and the Dracula castle is still a place to visit for all the tourists.

Mexico

Mexico is known all over the world for all the bad things. However, it is not exactly the case. This country is a very naturally gifted place and opens to all the tourists for exploration. The best part about this country is that it is quite inexpensive. There are a lot of high altitude plains, beaches, mountains, hill stations, historical places, resorts, cultural cities, and much more.

Turkey

Traveling to Turkey is every traveler’s dream, and with the recent economic crisis, visiting this country in a budget is quite easily possible. Turkey is a transcontinental country, and it is rich in culture. There are many Roman ruins, as well as Ottoman remains that you must visit. There are also other amazing landmarks and significant places such as Cappadocia, Anatolia, Pamukkale, and much more.

Philippines

The Philippines is one the first choice for any visitor for an amazing tropical beach holiday. This country has more than 7000 islands, and this provides an amazing chance for everyone to choose which island he or she will prefer to visit. The Philippines is also culturally very rich, so you can expect to see some unique stuff in its cities and towns. Above every other feature, this country can be visited in a limited budget.

Morocco

Located in the northern part of Africa on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco is one of the primary choices for all budget travelers. This country is rich in white and beautiful beaches, as well as cultural cities that can amaze you beyond any description. One of the best destinations in Morocco in Tangier, which is influenced a both modern, and ancient cultures. The old city is full of stalls and streets, with people selling food items, drinks, different stuff such as electronic items, computers and much more.

Iran

Located between Middle East Asia, and Central Asia, Iran is an oil-rich country. But due to Western sanctions, the economy is always struggling, which makes it one of the cheapest traveling destination in the world. With serene beaches on its coasts, as well as great access to the Caspian Sea, this place is truly magnificent for every traveler. There are also cultural cities such as Tehran, Qom, Bandar Abbas, along with historical places such as Persepolis, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, and much more for everyone to explore. You can also visit the mountainous region of this country, and be amazed at nature’s marvels.

Camping packing lists and tips

July 15, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Family camping trips are an excellent way to spend time together in the outdoors and enjoy a vacation on a budget, provided you have some camping tips and hacks up your sleeve. Otherwise, it can take as long to prepare and pack for a camping trip as the trip itself! To ensure that you’re ready for that next weekend trip to the woods, use the following camping packing lists and tips.

The Camp Kitchen

Organizing and packing your camp kitchen is often the most complicated part of preparing for a camping trip. The workaround is having dedicated camping pots and pans, utensils, and kitchen gadgets stored apart from your home kitchen, which will save you time and effort in packing and unpacking daily supplies. Here’s what you need:

Kitchen Packing List:

Camp stove: Opt for a lightweight backpacking stove or traditional car camping stove.
Fuel: Make sure you have the correct propane fuel for your stove.
Plates, cups, and eating utensils (1 per family member): Use paper products or opt for reusable mess kits, which are available in outdoor stores.
Tablecloth: Buy a cheap one at a dollar store.
Dishwashing tub: Opt for a plastic tub or nylon, sealed, collapsible tub.
Dishwashing supplies: Paper or cloth towels or dishrags; dish soap; and sponge.
Matches
Fire starter
Ice
Cooler
Tarp
Grill (optional): Most campsites provide a grill over the fire pit.
Camp table (optional): Helpful for organization, but not necessary.
Kitchen tools/utensils: Spatula, all-purpose knife, potholders, serving ladle, butter knife, tongs, long skewers for s’mores or meat-on-a-stick, and tin foil.

Try this kitchen packing hack: Store your kitchen tools and utensils in a toiletry bag or other small bag to keep them organized and clean between uses at a dusty campground. It will be easy to hang them from a tree branch for easy use when you’re at your site.

The Camp Sleeping Quarters

Everyone wants to be warm and cozy at night! Whether you’re camping in warm or colder climates, everyone in your family will need the essentials to ensure that they’re safe at night. Store tents and sleeping pads in a second large tote, making it easy to pack up the car and head to the campsite at any time.

Sleeping Packing List:

Tent(s): Opt for one large family tent or 2–3 smaller tents. Larger tents have the advantage of space, but small tents fit in cozier campsites.
Sleeping bags: Buy sleeping bags rated at 20 degrees F, unless you know you’ll be camping in colder climates. A 20–40 degrees F bag works for most camping experiences. Down or down-alternative bags pack down smaller and are lighter and warmer than cotton or nylon/polyester bags.
Sleeping pads: Opt for thick blow-up mattresses for car camping, or save space with backpacking pads that inflate with just a few breaths of air.
Ground tarp: Don’t skip the ground tarps. They protect your tent floor and keep the dew and cold at bay.
Towels and personal hygiene items: One per family member!
Flashlights or headlamps: One per family member. Everyone should have their own light source for safety and convenience.
Lantern: One per family will do. Ideally, your lantern can transition from kitchen area to tent and back.

Try this sleeping quarters hack: Buy a ground tarp one size larger than your tent, and use the overhanging space as a place to take off shoes and wipe off feet before entering the tent.

The Campfire Area

Camping just isn’t camping without a comforting campfire, right? The campfire area is important, but there’s good news: it’s easy to pack for!

Campfire area packing list:

Firewood: Buy on-site, or save money by buying it at a local grocery store.
Matches and fire starter: You’ll already have these in your camp kitchen supplies. The type of fire starter you use is up to you; we like fire disks or fire cubes.
Axe or hatchet: Useful for breaking down firewood. Store away from children.
Camp chairs: Some campsites include a bench around the fire ring, but for most, you’ll want collapsible camp chairs. To save space in the car, opt for the smaller, lighter versions sold in backpacking stores.
S’mores: Be sure to bring the ingredients for this tasty campfire treat!
Deck of cards or board game: Everyone enjoys playing a game around the fire.
Lantern: This item is already with your sleeping supplies!

Try this campfire area hack: Never bring firewood all the way from home. It takes up lots of room in your car or truck, which could otherwise be used for other items, and it could be banned from your campground if you’re driving any distance. Campgrounds often require local wood to be burned in an effort to reduce foreign insect species from invading new areas.

Miscellaneous Items Campers Love

Think you have everything you need? Probably not! Read the list of extras below and decide what you can’t live without!

Insect repellent or wristbands
Sunscreen
Toilet paper and shovel (if you don’t have a campground restroom)
Inflatable wading pool for small children to play in
Playpen for babies to stay off the dirt (sometimes)
Clothespins and a clothesline to hang wet clothing
Extra sheet or towel to hang in the tent to create “rooms”
Hammock
Baby wipes to clean hands and faces
Camera
Water/wading shoes
Small net and bucket to use in streams
Small toys for kids to use in camp
Bikes or scooters for larger campgrounds

Source: Fix.com Blog

Washington with kids: Semiahmoo Resort review

March 28, 2019 By Sharlene Earnshaw

If you’ve ever wondered what the far Northwest corner of the continental US looks like, you should visit Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine, Washington. This quintessential Pacific Northwest coastal resort is located on a spit almost completely surrounded by the Puget Sound within eyeshot of the US/Canadian border.

Its location on the water and the property amenities made for a memorable long weekend getaway for our family of six. The beach and outdoor yard games alone entertained and delighted our kiddos and provided amazing coastal views for us to enjoy while supervising their play.

Semiahmoo Resort accommodations:

Semiahmoo underwent a full remodel in 2016, upgrading all the rooms, dining facilities, meeting spaces grounds, spa, lobby and added the beach activity center. This remodel resulted in a destination hotel with a casually elegant Northwest style with a large fireplace and lots of windows facing the water (and complimentary apple cider in the lobby which was well received by our crowd). Most guest rooms are a traditional King or double queen configuration. Our room was spacious enough to have two double beds, a rollaway bed and a small sitting area by the view window facing the water. Our room also had a small mini refrigerator making in-room kid meals possible. Unknown to us prior to our visit, Semiahmoo is dog-friendly, welcoming family members of all shapes and sizes. All of the first floor rooms have exterior doors and open right onto the lawn and beach making traveling with a dog or toddler that much easier.

Included resort amenities:

Traveling with kids takes a mental, physical and emotional toll on parents, as all of you reading this article assuredly know. When our family arrives on a property for a holiday, we have no desire to pack everyone back into the car to travel to yet another location (plus we still have a little one in a 5 point harness). We want to settle in and enjoy all the amenities on property, and if those amenities are included for a modest $20 resort fee per day, I’m even more on board. From our experience, Semiahmoo offered the widest variety of included family-friendly amenities of the resorts we’ve recently visited.

Semiahmoo Resort spa and health club:

As a guest of the resort, we were given access to their spa and health club which included a heated indoor/outdoor pool (my kids are still talking about this feature); deluxe locker rooms with a sauna and steam room; reservable gym time to play pickleball, tennis or basketball (equipment included); health club classes and expansive fitness equipment. Our family reserved the pickleball court for an hour exposing our kids to this Northwest favorite sport for the first time. We also reserved the on-site golf simulator, for an additional $20 per hour. If time allowed between our beach and pool visits, I would have liked to take in a complimentary yoga class in the health club or indulged upon some extra time in the sauna and deluxe showers. Those luxuries had to wait until our next visit. All to say, the spa and health club facilities offer activities and relaxation for all members of the family.

Seaview Library and games:

The Seaview Library, positioned right off the lobby with expansive coastal views, offers dedicated gaming space with easy access to board games for all ages. On Saturdays during the high season, the resort offers supervised kid activities (ages 5 – 12) for a small fee. Activities are weekly tailored to the interest and ages of the kids who participate. Around the grounds, there are numerous large yard games, horseshoes, a sand volleyball court and a large chest of other lawn game equipment easily accessible to resort guests.

Discovery Theater:

An on-site movie theatre was new to us, for which we greatly enjoyed. The Discovery theatre, which originally was likely a lecture hall, has been converted into a 50 seat movie theatre for resort guests to enjoy daily movies on the 156’ HD projector “big screen.” Guests can pick a movie from an expansive selection at the front desk and reserve the space for their own viewing pleasure or guests can slip in and join another family already watching a movie. The atmosphere was relaxed, ideal for families. You can bring your own snacks, eat and drink in the theatre and come in your pajamas. This is the way we wish our family could experience all movies on the big screen.

Activity Center:

Included in the resort fee, guests get the first hour of bike, kayak and paddle board rentals. The Activity Center has a wide variety of bike and kayak offerings, sizes and safety equipment suitable for all ages and abilities. Rentals are available 7 am – 8 pm daily. We found this offering generous and ultra fun.

Bonfire and s’mores:

Weather permitting the resort offers nightly bonfires and free smores at dusk. A storm was supposed to move in while we were on property, which we worried would also infringe upon our ability to view the blood moon eclipse also scheduled during our visit. Lucky for us the storm never matriculated and the skies cleared so we were able to enjoy the beach bonfire, smores and the blood moon eclipse – an experience we won’t soon forget.

Beach and surrounding nature:

There is literally hours of entertainment right outside the resort doors. Our kids could spend days rock collecting, sea creature hunting, beach combing, and fort building. The driftwood and ample collection of rocks make for hours of entertainment. As a parent, I was also able to safely view the kids from the warmth and comfort of my hotel room. The view sitting on a log gazing at the sea and mountains vistas weren’t too bad either. On Saturdays, the resort offers local expert, staff guided bird watching tours at 2 pm. During the summer months, resort guests for $5 round trip can board the historic Plover Ferry from the nearby marina and sail across into the town of Blaine. Plover Ferry is the oldest running foot ferry running in Washington state. Strollers, bikes and well-behaved dogs are also welcome on the boat.

On-Property dining:

Packer’s Restaurant & Bar:

The Packers Restaurant & Bar offers Northwest cuisine with amazing water views with friendly and attentive staff eager to serve kids and families. The atmosphere is a nice blend of casual dining accommodating of kids, yet elegant for us as parents to feel as though we are experiencing a night out. The kid menu offered options for many pallets and the portions were generous, allowing for our little one to enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. There were nightly menu specials and a full bar to satisfy the parental “big kids.” In addition, Packers offers an expansive Sunday brunch buffet which satisfied all appetites and stomach sizes. Due to our busy evening schedule, one night we also ordered take-out pizza and salad from Packers. Walking through the resort halls in my slippers to grab a ready and warm dinner was a nice holiday luxury.

Since the rooms also had a small refrigerator and there is a microwave near the lobby, we also brought along a few kid-friendly meals and snacks that we could eat in our room or outside for a picnic. Semiahmoo also has the Seaview Breakfast Cafe for the parents who need espresso and an assortment of quick food options. Complimentary shuttle service is also offered to the Great Blue Heron Grill at the Semiahmoo Golf and County Club up the hill from the waterfront resort.

Being from the Pacific Northwest, I’ve heard many of friends talk about Semiahmoo Resort. This was our family’s first visit. Now that we’ve seen the beauty, experienced the ease of travel and enjoyed the affordable on-property adventures, I now know why other local and out of area families travel to Semiahmoo Resort and know our family will soon return. Our son, in fact, has already asked multiple times, on multiple occasions to go back.

Disclosure: We experienced Semiahmoo Resort as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain our own.

Amsterdam with kids: what to experience in Amsterdam

March 13, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

There are several cities around the world which are key traveler spots. One among them has to be Amsterdam which is the capital city of the Netherlands. When we think about the place the usual pictures do come in our mind that highlights its beauty. There are several popular destinations which are a must visit for all travelers. But along with that, we think that it is important to have some experiences that are solely local and will help you to know the city in a better way. So, we are here with some of the unique experiences that you can have in Amsterdam.

Visit Condomerie:

When we talk about Amsterdam, one of the things that strike us apart from the harbor is its red light area. So, one of the things that people need to think about is of safe sex. Condomerie is the shop that is dedicated to this and they do sell condoms. But apart from that the shop also lets you experience erotic art and it is operating in the city from 1987. They also provide information about safe sex which was derived from their need to win the battle against AIDS. They call themselves a specialist shop and we really like the interior of it.

Alternative Cultural Events at Vondelbunker:

It was the time of World War II and a lot of Atomic bunkers were built throughout the Netherlands. Vondelbunker is one of them that is present in Amsterdam. It was acquired by some of the artists and currently, they organize different events related to the place. If you are a fan of alternative and underground movements, then you will find your share of events over here. They have an interesting website that talks about the events that you can enjoy in the upcoming days. This spot will help you to know more about the youth culture that is an integral part of Amsterdam. To explore the culture of the city, the best is to have a guided tour of the city by a local and this can be done by connecting to Withlocals.

The Nine Streets:

If you are in Amsterdam, you will want to visit the local places that hold your attention. As you may already know the canals are an important part of the city. The nine streets crisscross the canals and make a beautiful site. You can easily walk to the place from the Royal Palace. There is everything from boutiques to art galleries to shops selling curios. One of the most interesting things that you should visit is the cafes present in this area. They brew fresh coffee whose taste will linger with you for a long time. Do try the bars to taste some amazing alcohol.

Visit the In De Wildeman:

When in Amsterdam, you need to indulge in tasting the beer. This is an amazing beer tasting bar which is found in the city. It was formerly a distillery so you can expect to find authentic beer over here. They sell 250 types of beer, so we are sure that the visitors will be overwhelmed. The place also has some options of the local Dutch brewers which is a must try for everyone. Do check their website to know more about the beers that they are currently serving. The place remains closed on Sundays and does find your way as it is hidden in an alley.

Check out books at Amsterdam’s Central Library:

When you are traveling you wouldn’t really think about checking out a library. But if you are someone who loves books, then do visit the central library. The OBA was first established in 1919 and the central library opened in 1979. The current building was established in 2007. The library is spread over 27,500 m². It remains open from 10 AM to 10 PM. As a traveler, you can go there for free and look at the different books that they have to offer.

So, here are some of the places that you can visit in Amsterdam. It is a really nice city and the inclusion of these places will make your stay even better.

South America travel: Three outstanding museums in Bogota

November 23, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

The city of Bogota dates back to 1538 and it’s no wonder that it houses some of the most interesting museums in Latin America. Some of those exhibits are must-see if you want to get a full experience of Colombia. Step off the beaten path and take a look at the Police Museum, Botero Museum, and Museo Santa Clara when visiting the city.

Best museums in Bogota: three places not to miss

Museo Botero

Museo Botero is one of the most recent additions to the museum map of Latin America. Opened in 2000 today it has one of the best modern art collections on the continent. It all started with Fernando Botero, a renowned Colombian artist, who donated 123 of his own works and 85 art pieces from his personal collection.

Today, everyone can see the beautiful pieces free of charge and over 500,000 a year use this opportunity. Aside from the permanent collection, the museum often hosts exhibits of talented modern artists.

Works of Botero himself are exquisite and haunting. They reflect many of the horrific events that plagued Colombia during the period of drug cartel violence. If you are interested in witnessing and understanding the amazing transformation the country managed to undergo, you definitely need to take a look at Botero’s art and compare it to the sunny Bogota streets of today that are filled with life and laughter.

Museo Historico de la Policia

The Police Museum of Bogota is another must-see place for those who want to learn more about the turbulent history of this country. You will most likely see it during the walking tours in Bogota. The building itself is beautiful and considered one of the best architectural sites in the city. However, you should definitely see it with a guide because it’s the story of the imposing building that makes it truly outstanding.

This museum is one of the most fascinating attractions in Bogota due to both interesting exhibits and guides. The tour will be presented by an 18-year-old on a compulsory police service. It’s true that Bogota has quite the history of violence, especially against the police. The exhibits and stories you will discover in this museum are both horrifying and enlightening. Most importantly, they show the tremendous spirit and dedication of the police force.

The only downside is that the museum isn’t particularly big and the tour only takes about 45 minutes. However, there can be no doubt that those would be some of the most informative 45 minutes you spend in Colombia. The museum is free, so everyone can enjoy it.

Museo Santa Clara

Santa Clara Museum is where you should go to learn about the history of Bogota and Colombia that goes back to the colonial times. The building of the museum is also the oldest church in the city. Its decorations are magnificent and rich, but it’s the art pieces by some of the most talented baroque artists that draw the most attention.

Today the museum does not only have some fascinating historical exhibits. It also hosts many events, including concerts. You should definitely see if you manage to catch one during your visit to Bogota.

Final tips for visiting museums in Bogota:

There are over a dozen of museums in Bogota and if you have a chance, you should take a look at each. The city has a very interesting history, which you can learn from many exhibits. However, you should also take your time exploring art museums and galleries because this will help you see more of the beauty that Bogota has to offer. Start with Museo Botero, Police Museum, and Santa Clara Museum as they will show you three distinctly different sides of the magnificent city that is Bogota.