preferredfamily - Pitstops for Kids

Riding Amtrak: how and when to enjoy an affordable rail trip with kids

January 8, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

I love rail travel: I find a train journey to be restful, peaceful, and productive for a work-from-the-road type like myself. My kids enjoy it as well: they appreciate the mobility afforded (compared to air travel), the extra leg room, and the fun dining and panoramic cars. However, train travel today is not always the economical choice it was just a few decades ago. Price a multi-day rail journey across a portion of the US or Canada on Amtrak or VIA Rail, and your jaw is likely to drop. It’s cheaper for an entire family to fly to a far-flung destination than travel by train. However, there are ways to experience a rail journey in the US or Canada for less. Here’s how to enjoy an affordable rail trip with kids:

1. Take a day trip.

Coach seats on Amtrak and VIA Rail are very reasonable. It’s when parents book passage in the sleeper cars that rates skyrocket. We don’t advise booking coach tickets for overnight travel with young kids—trust us, you’ll be miserable—but day journeys are perfectly comfortable in coach class. We like to utilize Amtrak to commute from our hometown in Southern Oregon to Portland International Airport (PDX) for more affordable air tickets, and save on long term parking fees. The trip takes us six hours (instead of the usual four by car) but no one has to drive, the kids enjoy the scenery through the Cascades, and we make up the train fare in the lack of parking fees.

As coach passengers, families don’t get meals included, but food packed from home is permitted, and a lounge car always has causal meals and snacks on offer. On Amtrak, when all sleeper car passengers have booked their meal reservations in the dining car, the crew opens reservations for coach passengers. Dining car meals are a fun affair, but costly. Parents pay a la carte if traveling coach. We find a happy medium bringing our our lunch and supplementing with a treat from the lounge.

2. Book early for Super Saver tickets.

Unlike air travel, for which the best ticket prices are usually offered during a 6-8 week window pre-trip, families can save the most by booking rail tickets as far ahead as possible. Look for Super Saver tickets, or book your train travel in the off-season. In June-August, families will pay top dollar for both coach and sleeper tickets.

3. Try a single overnight.

If your crew really wants to spend the night on the train—and yes, it is fun—24 hours is usually enough. We spent a memorable day and night riding VIA Rail’s Canadian route, and while we loved watching the stunning scenery go by and enjoying the dining car and comfortable berths (yes, really!), we were more than ready to hop off and stretch our legs after 24 hours. Check Amtrak and VIA Rail routes online to find a one-night itinerary that works for your family: there are more station stops than most people realize.

A few rail travel tips:

Don’t be in a hurry:
If you have a tight schedule, this is not the time for a rail trip. Amtrak runs at its own pace, stopping en route for freight trains (they have priority), at stations, and slowing through towns. Becoming behind schedule is the norm. We never book a rail trip on the same day of a flight departure.

2. Know what you’ll have access to:
Coach passengers are usually offered electrical outlets at each seat, plus pillows and blankets. Seats recline and have foot rests. A lounge car offers snack foods and ceiling to floor windows. Restrooms are in every car. Sleeper passengers also enjoy access to a parlor car with additional dining, a dining car with included meals (3x daily) and wifi. Check the information on the train you’ll be taking online before you go.

3. Pack carry-on only if possible:
Amtrak and VIA Rail both offer checked luggage service, but in our personal experience, getting your luggage back can take a while. Because passengers are allowed two carry-ons (just like when flying), and there’s ample space for your carry-on (unlike when flying), we recommend carrying luggage on board.

4. Let kids bring their own camera:
Our kids love taking photos aboard trains, and the freedom of movement afforded by rail travel makes it possible for kids to walk from car to car taking photos. In most lounge cars, docents are on-hand to offer knowledge about the vistas and landmarks passing outside the window. Encourage kids to ask questions or follow along on a map.

5. Board early for panoramic car or lounge car seats:
Cars with public access, like lounge cars with great views, fill up fast. Usually, boarding a train is a casual affair, with ample time. Instead of sitting in the train station lounge until the last minute, board early to snag good seats.

6. Opt in for Amtrak schedule notifications:
Because Amtrak considers the posted schedule only a suggestion (as noted, they are restricted by many factors, including freight schedules) it’s helpful to sign up for schedule change email alerts or texts. Knowledge of delays can save families from early wake-up calls or long waits.

Have train travel tips to share? Leave them in the comments!

Photo credit: Amy Whitley, Jim Guest

Day in the Ozarks with kids: Dogwood Canyon

April 26, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

A day in Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is a great way to get an introduction to the beauty of the Ozarks with kids. Privately owned and operated as a non-profit by Johnny Morris, the owner and founder of Bass Pro Shops, my first impression of Dogwood Canyon was that 1. it’s beautiful enough to be a state park or otherwise preserved by the US government, and 2. that Morris is doing a pretty good job of preserving it himself.

The park is managed by the Johnny Morris Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the canyon’s natural plant and wildlife environment. Because private ownership comes with an entry fee, I was prepared to dislike it based on the principle that lands such as this should remain accessible to all. However, the cost to enjoy the area is minimal (or can be, anyway…see pricing information below), and the benefit of private ownership is evident in the pristine nature of the park.

The paved and unpaved paths, signage, and structures of Dogwood Canyon are distinctly ‘Disney-like’ in my opinion. What I mean by this: everything is polished, pretty, and accessible. For an ‘enjoy right out of the box’ nature destination, it works very well. The 10,000 acres can be used for hiking, biking, and fishing, with optional tram and even Segway tours adding a bit of ‘theme park’ ambiance.

There are several ways for families to enjoy a day here, and yes, I do recommend reserving a whole day to the experience. The more affordable way to tour the park is by hiking or bringing your own bikes. There are 6.5 miles of paved paths for biking (or hiking), plus additional dirt trails for hiking. The canyon winds slowly upward on a very gentle slope along Dogwood Creek, and every quarter mile or so, there’s another beautiful vista, waterfall, or pool to stop and admire. Truly, it’s very lovely. There are picnic areas, fishing pools, and quaint stone bridges…even a wedding chapel. The mowed lawns on either side of the main paved path, as well as benches and sign posts give the canyon more of a ’manicured’ feel than I typically like in a nature setting, but once I acclimated, I was able to enjoy the area on its own terms.

The tram tour, which families will certainly see winding its way through the park, takes visitors the length of the 6.5 paved trail by guide, then continues past the point cyclists and hikers must turn around and ascends out of the canyon to an upper area of the park. Here, Morris’ herds of American buffalo (bison), elk, white-tailed deer, and long-horn cattle roam. This wildlife park aspect of Dogwood Canyon is worth the price of the tram tour if seeing these animals up close is important to you. I really enjoyed it, even though I’ve been through wildlife ‘safari’ parks in the past. The animals come right up to the sides of the tram (a feeding lends to their cooperation) and our guide was very personable and knowledgable. The whole tram tour takes a few hours, so plan accordingly…after we were done, I wished I had saved some time to walk along the unpaved trails, too.

With a whole day, a family could certainly hike or bike most of the day, stopping whenever and wherever to picnic or play, then take the tram tour before departure. This map of the hiking and biking trails can help in the planning process.

New at Dogwood Canyon:

Dogwood has undergone an extensive expansion, which is now complete. In addition to all of the above, families will find new activities in the park, such as horseback riding and organized wilderness walks, as well as the following attractions:

Working Mill – featuring live demonstrations with head miller Blake Adams
Canyon Grill Restaurant – a rustic-elegant destination restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Indian Creek and stunning rock formations with a 120 foot waterfall
Education Center – educates guests about the importance of protecting, conserving and preserving the great outdoors through offerings including Kids Adventure Clubs, interactive displays, and live wildlife demonstrations
Treehouse – this majestic two-story treehouse was built for the “Treehouse Masters” TV show on Animal Planet and offers a hands-on approach to conservation and wildlife education for kids and kids-at-heart.
Little Indian Stables – the beautiful new barn features 24 stalls that allow riders to walk through and visit horses as part of their experience.
General Store & Outfitters – one-stop shop for everything you need before heading out into the park, including segways, bikes, fly fishing gear and more. Also offering a variety of logo’d apparel and goods such as ground cornmeal from the Dogwood Mill.

For the best overview of the park each month, to help you plan your day, check their Adventure Guides. Here’s an example for May 2017.

Distance from the interstate:

Dogwood Canyon is located about 45 minutes from Branson, spanning Missouri and Arkansas.

Admission:

Admission to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park provides access to the Mill, Canyon Grill Restaurant, Nature & Conservation Center and Treehouse for $10 per adult and $5 per child. If you live nearby, a season pass may be a better deal.

Families can get hiking and biking admission (if bringing own bikes) for $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids. Admission with bike rentals included is $22 for adults and $15.95 for kids. From my day in the park, I believe this is a good value.

The wildlife tram tour is $25 for adults, and about $12 for kids. As mentioned, Segway tours are also offered, as well as fly fishing classes and horseback rides. Fishing is permitted in the park for another fee, based on whether you need to rent gear and plan to catch-and-release or keep your catch.

Check the admission page for current pricing.

Dining:

There is dining at the entrance of the park, in a smaller building that was a one-time military post. Families can get sandwiches, wraps, and other casual fare here, but I recommend bringing a nice picnic.

Directions:

Dogwood Canyon is located outside Branson at 2038 West State Hwy 86 in Lampe, Missouri.

As we disclose whenever applicable, Pit Stops for Kid experienced Dogwood Canyon as a guest of the nature park, for the purpose of review. All opinions are our own.

Travel Gear We Use: best carry on luggage for kids

January 20, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Welcome back to our Travel Gear We Use series. Today, we’re recommending best carry-on size luggage for kids. When packing for a family trip, we are big fans of using carry-on luggage (here’s an article on flying carry-on only). Why? Flying carry-on only saves money, helps kids become more responsible for their belongings, and keeps ‘baggage’ at a minimum…literally. Our favorite carry-on luggage for kids include models that are high-quality, adaptable, and of manageable weight for kids.

Eagle Creek Load Warrior:

The Load Warrior is a fully functioning wheeled rollie with the added bonus of super rugged construction. Our teen loves the Flip Switch because he can roll it through airports, then hold it by the oversized grip on the side when hefting into overhead bins. It comes in two sizes–22″ and 28″–and both feature quality ripstop nylon with two-way, lockable zippers and several organizational pockets.

Crumpler Spring Peeper:

The Spring Peeper (as well as the Crumpler Red Dry No 9 shown in photo) is one of the most sturdy, well-constructed rollie bags we’ve seen. It can, as they say, take a licking and keep on ticking. So by all means, hand it off to a kid who will roll it over curbs, hit it against pillars, and roll it over your foot. Inside, the Spring Peeper features multiple organizational panels and pockets, so kids can (hopefully) remember where they put things. The lightweight handle fully retracts, and side panels are perfectly sized for kids’ socks and underclothes The main compartment is roomy enough to store souvenirs on the way home. Best of all, the Spring Peeper is only $210.

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L.L. Bean Adventure Duffle:

L.L. Bean classic adventure duffles have served us well for years (and none have needed to be replaced. We opted for the medium size when the kids were very small, and still use them for quick trips and adventure vacations to this day. Kids can pick their own color (and can have their name embroidered), and the padded shoulder strap makes minor commutes no problem for older kids (if you want kids to wheel their own, opt for the large size with wheels and handle). Best of all, the medium is under $50 and the large is under $100 at L.L. Bean.

Timbuk2 Co-Pilot:

Our teens love this rollie, which features skateboard wheels for a smooth, ultra cool glide over airport floors. I love the fact that it has multiple compartments inside: you can separate clean clothes from dirty, or shoes from clothing via two large mesh sections. Open half the bag without disturbing the other half! There are also two smaller compartments, which we use as built-in packing cubes. There’s even an outside pocket perfect for a TSA-friendly toiletry bag. Grab the Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller for as low as $144.

More Travel Gear We Use:
Best Overnight Backpacks for Kids and Teens

Photo credit: Amy Whitley, via Go Green Travel Green

Travel Gear We Use: Winter jackets that pack down small

December 30, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Winter is a tough time of year to pack light, but it IS possible to do so. The easiest solution: winter wear that packs down small. We love our ‘puffies’! The best packable jackets keep kids and parents warm during winter travel, but fit well into suitcases for carry-on travel:

What Pit Stops for Kids’ Dad is wearing:

Arc’teryx Atom LT: No one does lightweight, quality, technical jackets like Arc’teryx. The Atom LT is like wearing a cloud (not that my husband would describe it so poetically), and is really easy to layer under a rain jacket or over a fleece. It has two zippered pockets and is fully insulated, but does not have a a hood…which can be a plus or a minus, depending on your needs. Grab the Atom at Amazon for $228. And yes, it comes in a women’s version as well.

What the teens are wearing:

Craghoppers CompressLite PackAway Jacket: In our opinion, Craghoppers offers the best value out there for parents needing to outfit the entire family. The CompressLite PackAway is our son’s go-to jacket for everything from air travel trips to backpacking trips. When he outgrew it, he refused to pass it down to the next kid, despite the fact that it had tons of life left in it! We had to pry it away from him. The CompressLite packs down into it’s own tiny stuff sack, and has elastic cuffs at the wrist to keep out cold. Best of all, it’s only $80, and will hold up for years. Read a full review on Practical Travel Gear. Buy on Amazon.

Dare 2b Burrow Jacket: With alpaca wool insulation, the Burrow Jacket keeps men and teens comfortably warm without bulk. The Burrow actually feels more like a windbreaker when worn (it has ripstop nylon on the outside), but is far warmer. There are lots of zippered pockets, and like many other of our picks, it packs into it’s own bottom pocket for easy storage. Find the Burrow for around $150 on UK sites, coming to the US Dare 2b site soon.

White Sierra Zephyr hooded jacket: The White Sierra Zephyr is another great pick for an affordable price. With kids outgrowing jackets on the regular, it’s essential that the layers we buy are a good value. After all, they not only need to be affordable; they need to be passed down! What the Zephyr does that others in the same price bracket do not: it has a hood and smaller, flatter cells for a thinner feel, and a slightly boxier fit. It’s as packable as the others, and water resistant and insulated. Find it for $100 on White Sierra or Amazon for a few bucks less.

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What the school-aged kid is wearing:

Stio Hometown Down: While thicker than his older brothers’ packables, our school-aged kid loves his Stio puffy. The Hometown Down is a fully technical winter jacket with a hood and multiple pockets that still feels lightweight (he usually wears it only with a cotton long-sleeved tee). The jacket is 650 fill goosedown and comes in fun, bright colors. Made in Jackson Hole, the Stio sells for $159, and will last and last.

Big Agnes Ice House: Like the Shovelhead for women (see below), the Ice House is made with DownTek, which is warmer and more ethically harvested. The Ice House is a serious jacket that will keep your kid toasty warm from the ski slopes to city touring. It packs down small, so it will fit in a carry on or a boot bag. Pick it up on Amazon on SALE right now!

What I’m wearing:

Big Agnes Shovelhead Hooded Down jacket: Ok, it’s admittedly spendy at $249, but this jacket is made by the makers of some of the best sleeping bags on the market, and uses Downtek technology. If you tend to get cold easily, like I do, wearing the Shovelhead feels like wearing a sleeping bag, without any bulk. It’s shiny, sleek, fitted, and feminine. I love it because I feel all bundled up without looking it. (No hood, however.) Grab one on Amazon.

Exofficio Storm Logic: Slightly more reasonable but still indulgent, the Storm Logic comes on all my international trips. It has pockets for everything, from hidden money stash pockets to a place for keys, room key cards, cell phones, and passports. I love not needing to bring a purse everywhere I go. And yes, it’s still an insulated, winter-ready jacket that also packs into its own pocket. Find it on Amazon for $150.

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Adidas Flyloft: This offering from Adidas is synthetic down, and lighter weight than any of the others. Honestly, I barely feel like I’m wearing a jacket at all. The thin design means I can walk and hike in it without overheating. Look for it on Amazon!

Do you have a favorite winter jacket that’s travel-ready? Share in the comments!

Family ski wear checklist: What you need and which brands are best

November 25, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Ski season is upon us, and if you’re a skiing family, you’re busy cataloguing your gear and checking to see what fits each family member. If you don’t ski often, you may not be outfitted yet at all. If you only ski once a year or so, we highly recommend using a ski wear rental service like Get Outfitted (see our full review), but if you plan to go several times this winter, it’s worth investing in the basics. In this post, I’m not going to list exact items, since that can change in a season or two. Instead, I’ll list quality brands you can trust for each category. Here’s what everyone in the family needs:

Family ski wear checklist

Ski pants:

Each family member’s ski pants should be waterproof (of course), and ideally, they should grow with your kid. To that end, we love Obermeyer’s ‘I-Grow’ system, which integrates cuffs and hems that are designed to be taken in and then let out to give you more life out of your pants. Young kids will appreciate ski ‘bib’ style pants, which do a great job of keeping cold and snow out, especially if they may spend a significant amount of time on the snow, and older kids will like the ‘cool factor’ of pants with suspenders or strap-free waistlines. Make sure your kid’s ski pants come down over his or her boots, with an inner lining to keep out slush. No matter which style you prefer, these are the brands we love best, based on affordability, value, and quality:

Obermeyer: You won’t lose your kid in the Volt Pant
Columbia: The Bugaboo pant is the best value out there
Patagonia: The Snowshot Freeride is pricy, but will last through several teens

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Ski jackets:

Picking the right ski jacket for your kid is a bit more complex than picking a pair of pants. Style comes into play even more, and since it’s nice to try to get at least two seasons out of a jacket, be sure to go with the style your child prefers. You can opt for a two-part jacket that features an inner fleece layer that zips out for solo use and an outer waterproof shell, or you can get an all-in-one. If you’re only getting one jacket, be sure it’s a waterproof shell with some insulation; otherwise, I prefer to outfit my kids with a ‘puffy’, which is what we call a down jacket or sweater layer, covered with a thin but waterproof shell. That way, they can go with just the puffy on cold but dry days, and have the shell to go over on wet days. If you have advanced extreme skiers or riders, I suggest getting a jacket with a built-in Recco avalanche beacon system. You’ll see the Recco logo displayed on these jackets, which are, as you might guess, more expensive.

Favorite brands for puffy jackets and shells:

Columbia: Try the Powder Lite Puffer
Patagonia: The Patagonia Down Sweater is hard to beat
Helly Hansen: Try the Arctic Puffer for young kids
Craghoppers: The CompressLite packs down to almost nothing

Favorite all-in-ones or two-part system jackets:

Columbia: The Snowcation is a great value
High Sierra: The Frankie is fleece-lined
Craghoppers: We love the NatGeo Oliver Pro shell for our teens, paired with the Liston Half Zip
Free Country: The boys’ Helium is extra warm

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Base layers:

Base layers are so crucial, and so many people neglect to get high quality Merino wool or synthetic base layers! They can get expensive, but in our experience, good base layers will last through a few seasons for each kid, and can be passed down. Look for wool, as it wicks away moisture from the body, but most importantly, find a brand and material that your kids can tolerate. Some kids don’t like the feel of wool. Here’s where to shop:

Hot Chilis: The La Montana is a simple base pant that’s soft and stretchy
REI: You can’t go wrong with their mid-weight offering
L.L. Bean: Can’t beat their Wicked Warm for the value
PolarMax: Our kids have worn PolarMax for years

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Gloves or mittens:

This is another ski wear category that centers around personal preference. I love mittens, as they keep my hands warmer (since your fingers are together and share body heat). My kids like gloves. Whichever you prefer, think QUALITY when it comes to hand protection. The last thing you want are soggy gloves. You can always buy a back up pair on the cheap, just in case. Best brands:

Head: Their kids’ ski mittens are colorful…you won’t lose them
Spyder: Try the Mini Cubbies
Outdoor Research: We like Revolution gloves for high quality for a great price for teens
Whatever Costco is selling (we’ve always found them to be good quality!)

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Socks:

This is another highly important category…we always want to make sure feet stay dry and toasty warm! Sorry to be repetitive, but go with wool, folks. Make sure you select a ski/snowboard dedicated sock, which will come up to the knee. Otherwise, your kid will be complaining about pain in their shins in no time. Top sock brands for ski days:

Darn Tough Vermont: Go for the Over-the-Calf Junior
Smart Wool: My kids think the Racer Socks look cool
Fox River: The Okemo is stylish for teens

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Goggles:

Don’t forget goggles! This is a category of gear that can vary greatly in terms of both quality and price. For newbies to the sport, no need to spend a lot of money for top-of-the-line goggles. Instead, look for used gear at your local ski swap or ski store. But if you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, you’ll definitely notice a difference wearing quality goggles. What we recommend:

Native Eyewear Upslope: Native goggles have a great anti-fog coating, which really makes a difference in most weather conditions. The lenses also have multi-mirror, hydrophobic, and oleophobic coatings to repel oils and water. The Upslope works well for women because they fit a smaller face.
Native Eyewear Backbowl: The Backbowl has all the same features as above, with a wider frame and wider field of vision. I love the mirror lenses…they just look so cool! These are perfect for the men in your family.
K2 Captura: These women’s goggles are a good mid-price option, with spherical lenses and a smaller frame.
Smith Optics Sidekick: Great for kids, these goggles are a solid choice that won’t set you back!

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Ok, you’re outfitted! All you need now are your ski rentals, a helmet, and a face mask or bandana in case of wind and cold! Have a great ski season!

Travel gear we use: packing cubes and TSA bags for the family

October 28, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Today in our Travel Gear We Use series, we’re talking about using packing cubes to make family packing easy! Below are the packing cubes we use for every trip, as well as the carry-on liquid quart bag we recommend. Many families consider packing cubes just for air travel, but we use them every time we pack. Most recently, packing cubes made our lives easier en route to a Lake Tahoe vacation rental.

Any packing cube is a good packing cube to use for family travel. Why? They make parents’ lives much easier on the road, and allow you to take much more in a carry on bag. Packing cubes keep kids’ clothing organized so they can find outfits and accessories themselves, and keep clean clothes away from dirty clothes. If you don’t have packing cubes and cannot buy them, use zip-lock bags! If you are planning to purchase packing cubes, here are our tried and true picks:

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cube Set

Eagle Creek’s packing cubes with compression have changed my life. On a recent trip to Mexico, I knew we needed to bring light rain jackets for the family just in case, but hated the idea of dedicating the needed space to five coats. I was able to fit all five (three in adult size) into one compression cube! How they work: unzip the cube and fill it with clothing (roll clothes to fit the most). Zip up the cube, then zip the outer compression chamber. Packing with cubes already saves space, but these compression cubes also reduce the size of the cubes themselves, sealing in your clothes and giving you much more space in your luggage. We love them! get a set at Amazon for $38, or buy individually.

eBags Packing Cubes – 3pc Set

eBags packing cubes won’t set you back as much, but are still roomy and able to fit more than you’d think. We usually use the biggest for all the kids’ shoes (this works for young kids) and then use the smaller sizes to organize socks, underwear, and other smaller pieces of clothing that usually gets lost at the bottom of the bag. Packing cubes make for great stocking stuffers: get everyone a set for Christmas!

TSA Quart-Size Carry-On Toiletry Pouch

In addition to using packing cubes, we like to stay organized while going through TSA checkpoints with carry-on luggage by using reusable, clear quart-sized pouches. They’re easier to find and grab in your carry-on when you need to present them, and you already have them on-hand at home when packing. We’ve reused ours for years. There are multiple brands out there, but no need to spend much: we have a Timbuk2 version that’s hard to find these days, but the Louis and Clark version linked above is only $5 on Amazon.

More Travel Gear We Use:
Best carry-on luggage for kids
Best overnight backpacking for kids and youth

Photo credit: Flickr/angryjuliemonday

4 reasons Tampa Bay is great for kid visitors

October 6, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

The Tampa Bay and surrounding areas offer a variety of family-friendly activities to experience on your next visit. With exciting theme parks such as Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, the best blue water beaches in the nation, and plenty of museums and nature trails, you and your kids are sure to have a full itinerary during your Florida stay.

We’ve narrowed down the best kid-friendly activities in Tampa and neighboring areas to make your trip a little easier. Check out these four reasons why Tampa Bay is a great destination for kid visitors.

Endless Fun at Theme Parks

Busch Gardens Tampa is a popular stop for visitors and residents alike. It offers 15 rides for you and your kids to enjoy, live entertainment shows, animal attractions and tours, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions, so your kids are sure to be entertained all day long. Admission for children aged 2 or under is free, while ages 3 and above have a ticket price of $79.99 for a one-day admission. For $109.99 per person, you’ll be able to enjoy two different SeaWorld Entertainment branded parks, so you can visit Busch Gardens as well as Adventure Island, located only a little over a mile away.
Tickets to Adventure Island begin at $54 for children ages three and older. Your children will be able to enjoy various waterslide attractions, a constructed beach area, and a wave pool. Featuring water obstacle courses for your young ones to complete and water play areas for them to explore, Adventure Island offers more than your average water park. Be sure to pack sunscreen, snacks, and loads of towels.

Fun and Learning in Downtown Tampa

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park rests alongside the Hillsborough River and features a beautiful view of the historic University of Tampa. Your children are sure to be entertained for hours in its large open-field play area and futuristic playground. At night, you and your children can stroll on the Riverwalk, which is lit by many color-changing lights. Bike rental is easy, as there are many CityBikes located near the park. Download the Citi Bike app on a fast smartphone to rent bikes for you and your children.
Also located in the park is the Glazer Children’s Museum, a fun interactive learning center for your little ones to explore. Admission is fairly priced at $9.50 for children aged 1–12, $15 for adults, and free of charge for children younger than 1. There are teacher and military discounts available, so be sure to bring the proper identification to receive any appropriate price adjustments.

Relax Under the Sun

Whatever time of year you decide to visit, a trip to one of the clear water beaches is never out of the question. Since the temperature is always fairly warm, residents and tourists alike enjoy the beaches all year round. Clearwater Beach offers crystal-clear waters, white sands, and plenty of shops and restaurants within walking distance. If you want to feel a little more secluded, visit Treasure Island Beach, where you will enjoy a wider empty beach front and where children can entertain themselves on an inflatable water slide. There is a parking lot available for convenient foot access, priced at $1 per hour.

Hiking, Nature Trails, and Camping

Visit the beautiful Hillsborough River State Park to enjoy some of Florida’s best forest nature. Admission to the site is $2 per person for a one-day entry, and you can camp for as little as $24 per night. The park features several walking trails, a picnic area, a hanging bridge, and wildlife information centers along trails. You can rent canoes and paddle down the Hillsborough River, visit the on-site pool, or browse the gift shop. Some activities, such as canoeing and pool visitation, are only available during certain hours or at specific times of the year, so be sure to call ahead to see whether your children will be able to participate in these fun activities.

Tampa is a beautiful waterfront city that has plenty of kid-friendly activities for your little ones to enjoy during your visit. Try any or all of these activities and watch your children’s faces light up with joy.

Photo credit

Travel Gear We Use: best overnight backpack brands for kids and youth

May 6, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

As an editor at Practical Travel Gear and a gear reviewer for OutdoorsNW, I test a lot of travel products and outdoor gear. Some of this gear we keep and continue to use as a family, and some of it gets pushed to the wayside. Some of the most-frequent questions I’m asked on Pit Stops for Kids is related to what to pack, what to bring, and what to wear. Our Travel Gear We Use series will address our most commonly requested gear recommendations.

Quality, backpack trip-worthy packs are hard to find that fit young kids and youth (tweens and teens). Many so-called kids’ packs are flimsy, or simply not designed for multi-day, serious hiking and trekking. It’s very important to find a pack for your kids that takes the weight off their shoulders and onto their hips, just like the grown-up models do. As with all travel-related activities, your kids will have better success and more fun when backpacking with the right gear. Here’s what we use when it comes to best overnight backpack picks for kids:

For young kids (ages 6-11):

Kelty Junior Tioga External Frame Pack

Why we use this pack: firstly, Kelty is a brand we trust to be of quality design at a reasonable price. Kids grow out of gear quickly and pack styles are improved upon often…no need to spend top dollar to hand-down something obsolete. The Kelty Jr. Tioga (shown in the photo above, worn by Toby, age 8) is 34L, which offers a large enough capacity to be helpful, but not so large that the child is over-burdened with too much weight. (Tip: our young kids carry only their own clothing, their own sleeping bag and pad, and lightweight food items, such as freeze-dried meals).

While the Jr. Tioga isn’t too large, it still offers a secure waist belt and sternum straps, allowing weight to be carried on the hips. The external frame is nice at this age, because the pack is more highly adjustable than most with internal frames. Not only can the waist belt and shoulder straps be adjusted to size, but the frame can be made larger or smaller. This pack has grown with our kids from age 6-11. Buy at sale price on Amazon.

Deuter Fox 40

Why this pack: once kids have outgrown the external frame pack above, enter the Deuter Fox. We tried many internal frame packs for kids in the 40-45L range, and found the Deuter to provide the best ‘adult’ features in a kid-friendly package. There’s a dedicated sleeping bag compartment and an adjustable torso, and good ventilation on the back panel and hip belt. We kind of wish it wasn’t top-loading, and kids tend to toss everything out of the bag to find that one thing at the bottom, but this is a feature we can live with. Buy on Amazon for $109.

Note: if you find you simply can’t find a narrow enough hip belt for a thin child, try the REI brand Passage 38. It was the only pack to properly fit our narrow-hipped child!

For tweens and teens (ages 12-17):

Mountainsmith Youth Pursuit

Why we use this pack: It is so hard to correctly size tweens and teens! They may be ready to carry the load of many adults, but for most teens, adult packs are still too large-framed, either in torso length or sternum/waist belt width or both. The Youth Pursuit is 45L (a nice in-between capacity) and offers an internal frame that’s fully customizable by velcro adjustment (for torso length). The waist belt fits our 12-year-old and our 14-year-old, and there are plenty of organizational pockets so older kids can be in charge of packing and using their own tools and gear. Kids get adult-pack quality ventilation on the pack pads, and pack material is equal to that of mom’s and dad’s. Read a full review here. Buy at sale price on Amazon.

Granite Gear Leopard

Why this pack: the Granite Gear Leopard is our older teen son’s all-time favorite pack. Yes, he’s in a height category that opens up his options to include any men’s pack, but with a thin waist, it can still be hard to find a proper fit. The Granite Gear Leopard fits perfectly, isn’t too big at 58L (most men’s packs are 65 L or more), and doesn’t break the bank. It also comes in a minimalist 46 liters! He loves all the pockets and included loops for his accessories like an axe and a collapsible shovel, and how easily it can be cinched down or expanded. Buy on Amazon for under $150.

Top youth backpacking packs at a glance:

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Exploring Christmas markets in Belgium

November 30, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

For our upcoming European vacation on a budget, we researched Christmas markets in France, Italy, and Belgium. While the country is still on high alert as officials ensure safety following the Paris terrorist acts, sources from both Flanders and Visit Brussels say that as of this posting, Christmas markets in the area will proceed as planned. Here’s what we learned about exploring Christmas markets in Belgium.

Brussels

Known as Winter Wonders, Brussels’ Christmas market is centered around the Grand-Place, where holiday lights take center stage. Check out this video of the holiday light show. It’s easily the most populated market, thanks to easy access from other European cities. The market stalls run over 2 km, and are augmented by merry-go-rounds on Place Sainte-Catherine, and a large wheel and ice rink at Marché aux Poissons. Note: it would seem any Christmas market worth its salt has at least a rink and a wheel in addition to shopping stalls. The Brussels market opens November 27th and runs through January 3rd.

Tip: Please note that Brussels is still at a high security alert. Be aware of your surroundings if and when enjoying the sights at any large gathering.

Ghent

Ghent tends to be less popular with tourists than nearby Bruges and more medieval than Brussels. The Christmas market here is where you’ll likely want to spend the majority of your time exploring. The ice skating rink sits in the city pavilion, and the ferris wheel is located in front of St. Bavo’s. The entire downtown area is very walkable, which makes it a great market to visit if you’re relying on public transit or want to park your car in a public lot outside town (advised).

Bruges

Looking for a postcard perfect Christmas? Medieval Bruges sets a beautiful backdrop. This Unesco World Heritage site shines during the holidays, with an ice skating rink, holiday stalls and a ferris wheel. Be sure to see the Snow & Ice Sculpture Festival, held in a massive thermal tent. The Bruges market opens November 20th and runs through January 3rd.

Antwerp

Antwerp’s market runs for a short time period, from December 15th through December 27th. Located in the city at the Groenplaats, lights and music set the backdrop to plenty of hot chocolate sipping, pastry eating and Glühwein drinking (a mulled wine that’s a specialty at Antwerp). The nativity scene is set against the backdrop of a historic building, and of course there’s an ice skating rink.

General tips for visiting Belgium Christmas markets:

Market hours: All markets generally run from noon or 1 pm to 9 or 10 pm, nightly. All have FREE entry, though parking fees may exist.
How to get there: EuroStar connects Brussels with both Paris and London, making it possible to make a day or overnight trip without a car. If you’re looking to explore further afield, like we are, you’ll need to take the train (Brussels to Ghent is only 30 minutes) or rent a car. As of this writing, EuroStar trains are running on schedule.
Foods to try: Start with chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate. Then indulge in the world of Belgian waffles. You’ll need to choose between the Brussels waffle and the Liege waffle. Actually, forget choosing. Try both. Stalls of roasted chestnuts, frites (french fries), and donuts are also abundant. You’ll even find German offerings like wursts and other grilled meats and sausages. And Mom and Dad: try mulled wine and specialty ales crafted for the holidays. Bottom line: come hungry.
What to buy: Belgium Christmas markets are known for ceramics like beer steins and pitchers, plus knit clothing (look for fun hats and scarves). Of course, you’ll also find holiday decorations galore, plus handcrafted trinkets and jewelry.
Tips: Bundle up, as you’ll be spending a number of hours outdoors in the cold. Don’t forget light gloves and a hat. Most ice skating rinks are free of charge if you have your own skates, or skates can be rented in larger market areas.

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Have you been to a Belgium Christmas market? Which one?

Disclosure: This post was written in partnership with Alamo. All opinions my own.

Touring breweries and wineries (and how to take home souvenirs)

November 6, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Indulging in a libation or two while on vacation has always been popular, but with the number of microbreweries and wineries popping up all across the country, it’s now a legitimate way to experience a new destination. Here’s how to drink in the local culture, touring breweries and wineries on vacation, even with the kids in tow.

How to find the best local beer and wine:

You’ve arrived at your destination, and would love to get to know the wine or beer scene. The best way to go about this is with some pre-trip research, on-site polling, and dining. Ask the folks at your local hotel for recommendations, or talk to waiters or tour guides. They’re locals, and will know if there’s a craft brew or wine that’s the pride of the town. Pop into the visitor’s center or welcome center and ask about wine or beer trails. If you’re in a city or agricultural region, the answer is overwhelmingly, yes!

How to enjoy local beer and wine with kids in tow:

It can be tricky…as parents you want to unwind and enjoy a local craft brew or spend a few hours at a winery, but you also want to enjoy a family-friendly vacation. Here’s how to do both!

Make it about the process or the place, not about the booze. If an afternoon’s activity is all about tasting beer, and you’re 10, you’re not going to have fun. But if it’s all about the cool fermentation process during a factory tour, kids may dig it. Find a brewery that offers behind-the-scene tours of their floor, or look for a winery with an activity, such as a grape stomp or even rows of vines to stroll through.

Designate it as a picnic spot. Many wineries allow outside food to be brought in. We try to pair a winery visit with a local hike or biking trip, visiting at the end of our outdoor activity. This way, the winery is the destination for everybody, and the kids have the payoff of fun food while Mom and Dad taste.

Find wineries with outdoor space. Related to the tip above, a winery with outdoor space allows kids to play and explore, crucial to the experience. Many wineries have lawn games for families to play, or resident pets, like friendly dogs or bunnies. More and more wineries even offer planned kid activities.

Head to brewpubs instead of tasting rooms. A tasting room is going to be boring for kids, if they’re permitted inside at all (not likely). The good news: most microbrews are attached to restaurants, and almost all of them are highly kid-friendly, thanks to yummy pub food. Ideally, head to a pub that makes its own brew on-site, but lacking this, find a pub with local beers on tap. Parents will still taste the local culture and kids will get a great burger.

Enjoy local beer and wine in your vacation rental or room. Can’t find a kid-friendly venue to taste wine and beer? Head to a local grocery store, armed with knowledge about local brews and bottles. Look for cans of locally brewed beer and bottles of local wine, and enjoy after the kids settle in for the night.

Look for a local craft brew or wine at sporting events. Local pride is strong at sporting events and ski resorts. Take a careful look at the menu before ordering standard domestic beer…it’s very likely they’re serving the local brew alongside the usual suspects.

Attend a festival: One of the most fun ways to experience the local beer scene, brewfests or events like Bluegrass and Beer are almost always family affairs (just do your research to ensure there will be kid-friendly activities). Most brewfests we’ve attended included games for kids, music and dancing, and even activities like bungee jumping and ropes courses for kids to enjoy while parents sample brews.

How to take it home with you:

Beer and wine make for great souvenirs, albeit tricky ones to transport. When visiting breweries, bring your own growler to take some suds home with you or to enjoy in the days following your visit. At wineries, cases can be shipped home for you, but if you want only a few bottles, consider investing in a wine transportation sleeve. Our picks:

Hydroflask growler: I’m an Oregonian, so local Hydroflask is the only growler option for me! This 64 ounce flask keeps beer cold up to 24 hours, which means you can enjoy a pint or two the night of a brewpub visit, but also enjoy another round the next night…even if you’ve moved on. The walls are insulated, and totally temperature controlled. Pour your beer from the growler into the Hydroflask True Pint glass (which are also great for keeping kids’ water cool by their bedsides at night). Pick up the growler for under $45 on Amazon.

Wine skin: Pick up a padded or inflatable wine skin to transport wine bottles home without damage. You’ll need to check your luggage if flying, but if you’ve left room in your bag for a few bottles, this is still more economical than shipping wine home. We like this reusable wine skin that comes in a two-pack.