travel tips - Pitstops for Kids

Five fall weekend getaways to take on a budget

September 14, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

School’s in session, and magically, travel costs have dropped! Resorts and theme parks across the U.S. are offering discount packages to entice autumn travelers, but what if you only have weekends free? Try any of the following give fall weekend getaways that won’t break the bank. Bonus: not a crowd in sight!

1. Visit a local farm

We can’t say enough good things about farm stay vacations. Most states have farm stays within a half day’s drive from urban areas, making it easy to get away from it all and still leave Friday night after school and work. The best farm stays offer the chance to get your hands dirty (we love feeding time at dusk and herding sheep…harder than it looks!), but plenty are hands-off if you’d rather hike, bike, or sit on a porch swing, taking in the views. Farm stays are affordable, include breakfast (and sometimes additional meals), and include built-in entertainment of the outdoorsy sort. Be aware that many farm stays book rooms ‘B&B style’, which means there may be a fee for more than two people in a room. If you’re unsure whether a farm is kid-friendly, call and ask: almost all farm stays are small businesses, ensuring you can easily connect with the folks right on the property with one phone call. Can’t get away overnight? Make it a day trip, patronizing a U-Pick orchard or berry patch.

2. Stay the night in a yurt or fire tower

Fire lookouts (functional and retired) are enjoying a period of rebirth as exotic sleeping quarters, and they’re not just for the summer months. In fact, fire towers, coastal yurts, and other unique camping accommodations often remained booked solid from June-August, making the autumn months ideal for families with more flexibility. In fact, our favorite fire tower trip took place in February! Bring plenty of warm clothing, but rest assured that unlike tent camping, you’ll have a roof over your head and usually electricity and heat. Fire towers cost less than $75 per night, making them the cheapest ‘motel’ you’ll find with views like these! Bring card games, books, and plenty of hot chocolate. Find additional northwest yurts, towers, and cabins.

3. Ride the rails

Amtrak vacations are expensive…but not in the fall! We priced a ride on the Cascades line through Oregon and Washington, and found fares to be 65% lower in September than in June. And there’s no need to book the pricier sleeper cabins: plan an itinerary that takes you 4-6 hours from home, book one night in your destination, and return home the next day. The kids won’t mind the travel time: while on Amtrak, it’s fun to check out the views from the panoramic cars, eat in the dining or cafe car, and play games in the parlor car. Parents can relax instead of drive, or plan out the day’s itinerary at the destination.

4. Take a city field trip

Remember those hotel discounts I mentioned? You’ll want to take advantage of those! Autumn is our favorite time of year to tour major cities: their museums are less crowded (and school field trips haven’t amped up yet), restaurants have less wait time, and hotel pools are frequented only be the occassional business traveler…and you. Grab CityPass booklets when you go, as we did in San Francisco: you’ll likely have time to actually see all the attractions on a quiet fall weekend!

5. Sleep in a national park lodge

Remember how those fire tower stays get booked fast for summer? That goes double for national park historic lodges. Take advantage of America’s national parks’ off-season and stay in comfort. We especially love Oregon’s Crater Lake Lodge, and Montana’s Many Glacier Lodge. Fall is a great time to spot wildlife, hike trails without summer heat, and canoe across lakes. Just be aware that some seasonal activities, such as horseback stables or swimming beaches, may be closed until spring. Tip: now’s the right time to book your national park lodge stay for next summer, too!

Still not seeing what you’re looking for? Check out more fall getaways!

5 fall weekend getaways to take with the kids

Where do you plan to go this autumn? Tell us about your trip in the comments!

How to protect your home while on vacation

September 10, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

When you’re traveling with your family, the last thing you want to think about is whether or not your home or property is at risk. Unfortunately, when you travel, that’s the prime time for criminals to strike. They’re more clever than you might think, and they may be aware when you leave town based on things like the lights being used in your home or something you post on social media.

You don’t want to come back to theft or damage when you travel, so with that in mind, the following are some tips to protect your home when you’re on vacation.

How to protect your home while you are on vacation: learn these steps!

Be Careful About Social Media

Social media is such a common part of our daily lives, and you might like sharing vacation photos, but be cautious that if your profiles are public, thieves can see them too.

You should either avoid posting that you’ll be traveling or are currently away. If you post about your vacation, double-check all of your security settings.

You can always wait until you’re back from your trip to share vacation pictures.

Visually Monitor Your Home When You’re Away

There are many great options available so that you can keep an eye on your home no matter where you are, on your phone, or your mobile device. Monitoring your home isn’t just helpful when you’re on vacation. You can also set it up so that you can watch your teen when they’re home from school, for example, or if you have a nanny or sitter.

You can use a camera or maybe a couple inside and outside of your home. They will transmit images or video to your WiFi router, so you can monitor the area in the camera’s view from your mobile device.

Depending on the type of camera you use, the images or video might be stored on a computer, a network hard drive, or in the cloud.

Video doorbells are incredibly popular right now and are helpful not only when you’re away from your house but also when you’re in your home if someone comes to your door.

If you have a doorbell camera, you’ll be able to see not only if someone is poking around but also if you get a delivery or package so that you can have someone put it away before it catches the eye of a would-be thief.

Many video doorbells will feature a motion sensor that will give you a mobile alert and initiate HD video recording.

Another type of technology that will provide you with home security is outdoor lighting equipped with a Wi-Fi camera. Some of these lights will send an alert to your smartphone if movement is detected, and you may be able to speak to someone who’s there or trigger an alarm.

Set Timers On Your Lights

If you have smart home technology, it’s easy to set timers on everything while you’re gone, including lights. If you can change up the lights and have them turn on and off throughout your trip, it’ll make it look like someone is home.

Have Someone Get Your Mail and Trash

Criminals will look in your mailbox if they think you’re away, and if mail is stacked up, their suspicions maybe confirmed. If trash piles up or you have packages stacked at the doorstep, again, it can tip off a criminal that you aren’t home.

It’s essential to have someone come when you’re away and handle these things because there’s also the risk of identity theft if your packages or mail is left out.

Avoiding Fires

It’s not just the potential for an intruder you want to think about if you’re heading out on a family vacation.

You also want to avoid the risk of a fire.

You should unplug electronics and make sure that you’ve stored anything combustible safely away.

You can include fire alarm monitoring with your security system.

Preventing Flooding

Finally, you, of course, don’t want to return to flooding or water damage. You should make sure that you install water sensors or a flood detection system. These will let you know if there’s a leak in your home, so even if you’re away, you might be able to send someone to your house to fix it before the issue becomes more extensive.

Test your sump pump before you leave and clear any debris from your ditches and drains. You should also clean your downspouts and gutters before you head out.

Don’t leave for vacation without safeguarding your home

August 10, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Vacationing might be an effective way to get away from your house, job, school, and everyday responsibilities for a while, but you always intend to come back. When you’re away from your home, many things could go wrong if you haven’t adequately prepared. Home repair problems, natural disasters, vandalism, and even burglaries can occur, putting a damper on your mood and finances. As no one wants to return from vacation with many problems to resolve, it’s best to take care of these things in advance.

Yardwork

When you’re planning a vacation, chances are you’re not thinking about mowing the lawn and trimming the trees. However, it is an essential step to safeguard your living space. Properties that appear unkempt from the outside are often targets for burglars. It gives the appearance that no one is home and creates plenty of hiding and access points.

That’s why you should take care of your lawn before your trip. Cut the grass, trim bushes and trees, and put away temptations like grills, swimming pools, and lawn furniture. If you’re going to be gone for a while, you should also consider hiring a landscaping company to keep up with basic maintenance until you return.

Maintenance And Repairs

Leaving your home for an extended period of time without handling maintenance and repairs could turn into a disaster. Take a roofing problem, for instance. Let’s say you go on vacation knowing there’s a small leak in the roof. Then, a nasty thunderstorm results in a more extensive leak, water damage, and mold.

If you had taken care of the problem before going on vacation, you could avoid coming home to an expensive mess. Learn how to hire a good roofer and have your property serviced in advance. Even if that means you’ll have to dip into your vacation fund to cover the costs, it’s better than the outcome.

Weather Prep

Natural disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes can develop at any moment, leaving properties in shambles. Although you can’t prevent everything, every homeowner is encouraged to take precautions. When planning a vacation, be sure to check the weather in your hometown while you’re away.

If there’s a storm predicted or you live in an area where natural disasters are common, you should prepare your home before you leave. Securing outdoor furniture, boarding up windows, and having the sub-pump system serviced in advance can save you a lot of frustration should lousy weather persist.

Security Systems

You’d be surprised how many homeowners go on vacation without adequately securing their property. Consequently, they return to a house that’s been vandalized or burglarized that takes weeks or even months to recover from. As most people have home security systems in their residences, they’re encouraged to ensure they’re set before you leave. You should also notify the security company that you’re going on vacation so they can keep a watchful eye and respond to potential threats faster.

Cleanliness

Vacationing is all about getting away from the norms to clear your mind. Coming home to a dirty, cluttered, and messy house can undo all the emotional benefits of getting away. As unclean spaces can heighten feelings of stress and anxiety, it’s best to clean your home before your trip.

Dedicate a few hours to clean and organize your house from top to bottom. You can enlist the help of family members or hire a professional cleaning crew to assist you. That way, you have a clean, safe, and healthy environment to return to. It provides peace of mind and makes getting back into everyday routines more manageable.

When you think of vacation planning, home prep is often a minimal consideration (if at all). While completing the above tasks may feel like a chore, it’s essential to safeguard your home. It reduces the risks of property damage while you’re away, giving you an added peace of mind and a sense of security. That way, you can enjoy the benefits of vacationing and return to a safe, decent, and comfortable living space.

Things you can’t fly with this summer

June 29, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Summer travel is returning this year after a hiatus because of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re gearing up to go somewhere this year, you may have forgotten about those pesky TSA rules.

Some make more sense than others.

For example, there are certain consumer electronic products like power banks and batteries that carry the risk of catching fire or exploding. Then, there are those TSA rules that might make a little less sense but still have to be followed.

The following are some things to know as far as what you can’t fly with this summer.

Power Banks

You can carry a power bank in your carry-on bag, but not in your checked bag, according to the TSA. Any portable charger or power bank that has a lithium-ion battery must be in your carry-on.

Lithium batteries can catch fire if they’re damaged. Lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries are found in smartphones, tablets, cameras, laptops, and more. If they are put in checked baggage they’re supposed to be turned completely off, but again, this is against TSA rules.

You can’t bring uninstalled lithium-ion batteries, electronic cigarettes, or vaping devices in your checked bag. They have to be in your carry-on bag.

The thought process behind this is that if there is a smoke or fire incident involving a lithium-ion battery, the passengers and cabin crews may be able to mitigate the situation.

Liquids

Liquids always tend to be tricky. If you’re going to bring a full-sized bottle of anything like sunscreen or shampoo, you have to put it in your checked bag. If you aren’t checking anything, then you have to leave it at home.

There is a limit that in your carry-on luggage, you can’t have liquid or gel items that are larger than 3.4 ounces. Also, if you’re bringing multiple liquids or gels, they have to all fit in a quart-size plastic bag.

There are a few exceptions for some medicines and food for children or infants.

Powder

A relatively new rule enacted by the TSA applies to powder. If you have 12 ounces of powder or less, then you can pack it in your carry-on without any additional screening.

If you’re bringing more than 12 ounces of any powder, you can put it on your carry-on, but you have to claim it and take it out of your carry-on at the TSA checkpoint. Then, you’re going to have to go through additional screening. It’s better, if you can, to put the powder in your checked bag.

Alcohol

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of airlines stopped serving food and beverages on flights or limited their offerings significantly. That led people to want to bring their own alcohol onboard.

You are allowed to bring alcohol on a flight, both in your carry-on and checked baggage. However, you have to be of legal drinking age, and the alcohol has to be in the original, unopened container.

You can’t have any alcohol that’s 140 proof or more.

How much you can bring depends on whether you’re carrying them on or checking them.

Now, the important note is this—it’s against federal laws to open a bottle of alcohol on a flight or drink alcohol not directly served to you by a flight attendant.

Flight attendants are responsible for keeping your drink levels reasonable and safe, and if you’re drinking too much and something happens, the flight attendant could be in trouble.

Things You Can’t Put In Your Carry-On

There are some things that you can put in your checked luggage and not your carry-on. You can put self-defense items in your checked luggage in most cases, such as a firearm and pepper spray. However, these items have to be equipped with a safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge, and you can’t fly with them internationally.

Sharp items are allowed in checked bags if they’re securely wrapped.

If you have sporting goods, you should check those too.

Certain types of razors are permitted onboard while others aren’t. You can put a disposable razor, replacement blades, or an electric razor in either your checked or carry-on luggage. If you have a straight razor or a safety razor, you have to take the blades out and keep those in your checked bag, but the razor itself can go in your carry-on.

Finally, when it comes to makeup, there aren’t limits on solid or powder makeup. There are limits on liquid, gel, and cream makeup. The rules are the same as for other liquids and gels.

Safe travel: 3 medical conditions that could prevent you from flying

June 29, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

The idea of getting on a plane again and heading off somewhere exciting is something many of us cannot wait to do. For most people, this is easy – we simply book a ticket, arrive at the airport, check-in, and fly. Yet for some people, it is not quite so easy. Some medical conditions could prevent you from flying, and rather than booking a vacation and finding out flying is not possible, it is best to know what some of these conditions are in advance so you can be prepared. Read on to find out more.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The air within a plane is pressurized, and this means that it is less saturated with oxygen. For most people, this is not something that causes any problems; many will barely notice it, and most will not feel any difference at all from the normal air they breathe on the ground. For those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (also known as COPD), it can actually be very dangerous.

COPD means that the lungs are less able to take in oxygen, and if there is less oxygen in the air as well, this means that breathing can become labored, and in some cases, it might be fatal. This is why most airlines will recommend you do not fly when you have COPD.

Cataracts

Although cataracts in themselves are not dangerous when on a flight – your eyesight will not become worse because of the pressure, for example – it is still potentially hazardous to fly when you suffer from this condition.

When you have cataracts, your eyesight will be limited, and sometimes you will not be able to see at all. In an airport, many obstacles could potentially harm you if you cannot see them, not to mention that if there were to be an emergency onboard, it would be hard to evacuate the plane safely without your full vision. Of course, a cataract lens implant would solve this issue, and if you have had cataracts in the past but don’t have them any longer, flying wouldn’t be a problem.

Stroke

When flying, it has been ascertained that there is an increased risk of developing a condition known as deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. This is essentially a blood clot that forms within the body, often due to poor circulation and the fact that you will be seated for an extended period. These clots can be fatal.

If you have had a stroke or you suffer from transient ischemic attacks (TIAs or ‘mini-strokes’), then your circulation may not be as healthy as it could be, and you may be at greater risk of developing a DVT. Before you book a flight, you should speak to your doctor about whether or not it is safe to fly. If it is safe, it will depend on how long ago the stroke was, how many you have had, and what medication you are now on, if any.

Recommended travel essentials: 15 must-have travel items

June 27, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

When planning for a holiday, we often get confused and irritated about packing for our smooth vacation. It becomes hard to jot down all the essential traveling items that we need for our tour. The most important things to keep in mind are the lists of items that should be packed depending on the length of your trip, the weather, and places to visit. So, to ease your vacation, we are here to help you out. You can rely on us and take help from this list of items to have a peaceful and restful holiday.

When it comes to travel packing, I always make sure to minimize my travel gear and only pack the best (and necessary) travel items. Use this ultimate guide of some of the essential things you need to pack for your tour. Whether it’s toiletries, clothes, gadgets, or glasses, we have got you covered. So, I’m sharing 20 essential travel items lists that you must have in your bags.

1. Portable Charger (Power Bank)

Our phone can run out of battery. So carry a portable phone charger wherever you go. No one wants to have a phone battery dead and miss out on clicking some amazing photo. Power Bank is a must for any trip, and it will never let you down. If you don’t want to get lost in the city, don’t forget to keep your phone charged with a Portable Charger.

2. Ziploc Bags

Ziploc Bags helps to keep all the small bits together. Putting your Phone in an airtight Ziploc Bag will instantly save your phone in water as it is waterproof. Just stick your electronics into the Ziploc bag, squeeze the air out, zip it, and your items are completely waterproof. If you’re listening to music at the beach, these bags will help keep sand and water out of your speakers.

3. Bluetooth Speakers

Ever thought about enjoying your vacay without Music? With a portable Bluetooth speaker, you can listen to music and chill on your beach, parties, and rooms. Having a bit of music playing can give you a positive vibe and set your mood. Just connect your phone to the speaker and listen to the music of your choice. Bluetooth Speaker will give you the company whenever you need it, says Andrew, who provides pay someone to take my online exam services.

4. Universal Adapter

Universal Adapter is an essential device to have when traveling. Travel adapters allow any electronic device to plug into a differently shaped outlet from one country to another. For example, U.K. wall outlets require a plug with a top vertical prong while the U.S. requires one with two flat vertical prongs. So, when traveling overseas, you need a travel adapter to charge your electronic devices.

5. Water bottle

No matter where we travel, we always need a water bottle. To keep your beverages cold or hot and have clean water, you need to carry reusable bottles during travel. Staying hydrated is one of the most useful things you can do for your body when traveling, says Paul, who provides do my coursework services. Instead of using single-use plastic bottles, consider a reusable water bottle that can store your drink.

6. Sunscreen

You always need to wear sunscreen whenever outside. We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen. You should carry a travel-sized pack of sunscreen to moisturize and protect your skin from the sun. Use an oil-free and fragrance-free sunscreen moisturizer that is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist tested. Apply an SPF30 or more sunscreen even if you are on the beach.

7. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential item you must carry for your vacation. If you are unsure of exactly what they carry on a first aid kit. I am here t rescue you. Here are my picks for the essentials. Bandages/Crepe Bandages, Surgical tape, Cotton, Scissors, Tweezers, Antiseptic Wipes, Pain Relief Medicine, Antibacterial Creams.

8. Sunglasses

One of the most important travel accessories you should pack is your sunglasses. You must carry sunglasses that block harmful UVA and UVB rays, says Carolina, who provides python assignment help services. Investing in different styles such as aviator or the wayfarer is always a good idea. Go for good-quality sunglasses with polarized and UV-protected lenses.

9. Toiletries

Toiletries have always been a serious struggle for me. Sometimes I over pack them, and other times I almost forget to pack toothbrushes and toothpaste. Follow this guide to pack your toiletries. Shampoo, Conditioner, Face Wash/Scrub, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Face Moisturizer, Mouthwash, Styling Brush/Styling Comb, Body Wash, Comb/Brush.

10. Backpack

You need a good travel backpack even if you are traveling for a day or two or even for a week. Look for a travel backpack that has a sturdy hip belt and water storage space. Pick a bag that is big enough to carry some extra weight. Make sure your bag is semi-waterproof so that your stuff doesn’t get wet in a drizzle.

Other than the above-mentioned essentials, carry your clothes for going out, nightwear, beachwear, and party dresses. You can also carry an eye mask, noise-canceling Headphones, travel towels, U-shaped pillows. Make a list of the items you need for your vacation and pack efficiently.

Everything you need to know about traveling with CBD

April 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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

Traveling with CBD:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Five easy tips for saving money when traveling with kids

April 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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

Tips for saving money when traveling:

Be Flexible with Dates

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

Skip the Restaurants

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

Go Far (Or Stay Near!)

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

Check Out Bundles

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

Remember the Kids

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

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

Yosemite National Park travel tips: best tours, hikes, and advice

February 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the Yosemite area, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the national park system, and for good reason. Its stunning geological features, wildlife, and rich history make it ideal for an outdoors family vacation. This park has so much to offer, the following Yosemite National Park travel tips and touring advice are meant to supplement further research. Start with the official Yosemite National Park site to plan your trip, make sure activities and sites are open, and plan your lodging options! For touring advice and tips primarily for Yosemite’s Valley Floor region, read on.

Note: if you’re considering the Majestic Mountain Loop of three parks in one trip, start by viewing our Guide to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

When to go:

Yosemite is open and active year round! While the vast majority of visitors arrive in the summer (of course), more is open during the off-season than many families realize. During fall and spring, some hikes and roads may be closed, but the majority are still at your disposal. Ditto for visitors centers and museums (just check seasonal hours). Winter is a wonderful time to stay on the valley floor without the crowds; families can easily rent snowshoes or Nordic skis to explore the area. If you must go in summer, don’t worry: the park is still very accessible with crowds. Plan to base your car in one location (ideally your lodging within the park) and take the free inter-park shuttle everywhere you need to go. We tried this out during a busy week in July (the peak of the busy season) and never waited more than five minutes for a shuttle bus. Busses run between campgrounds, lodges, visitors centers and hiking trailheads.

What to do on the valley floor:

Obviously, there’s too much to do in Yosemite to put into one post! The Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona regions are well-worth visits; however, if your family is new to the park, and you have at least three days, devote one morning to a Valley Floor Tour. This tour–conducted on motor coach in the off-season and open-air tram in the summer–offers a wonderful overview of the valley. If possible, ask for tour guide Bill: his knowledge is unparalleled, and he’s entertaining throughout! I loved that Bill described his tour as a ‘portal’ tour: he considered every major subject he addressed as merely a ‘portal’ to learning more (then gave the resources needed for those who wanted to dig deeper). Our Valley Floor Tour covered Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Tunnel View, Swinging Bridge, and Sentinel Rock, Cathedral rocks, and El Capitan. The bus stopped frequently, with plenty of photo ops. Because tours don’t stop for hiking, swimming, and the like, this is a good opportunity to note the areas you’d like to come back to on your own.

Lodging:

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park is as varied as individual family itineraries! For easiest access to the shuttle buses and to be within walking distance to the most sights, I’d opt for Yosemite Lodge or Camp Curry (be sure to reserve both well ahead of time). For families who may wish to divide their attention between Valley Floor activities and backcountry, many lodging options are located just outside the park.

Hiking:

Yosemite Falls: One of the easiest hikes to access from the valley floor, Yosemite Falls offers a very short hike to the lower falls, or a much more strenuous hike (3.8 miles one way) to Upper Yosemite Falls. Plan to spend the better part of the day if you tackle the latter! End your hike with a treat at the Food Court of Yosemite Lodge at the Falls.

Mist Trail: If you only do one hike in Yosemite, this should be it. But bear in mind that it will get very crowded in summer. Go early in the morning, or just before evening to beat the crowds (and heat). Enjoy the mist off Nevada and Vernal Falls as you make the short but very steep climb. If you’re up for more, this is the access point to hiking all the way to Half Dome to climb the backside using the cable system.

Note: permits are required for the Half Dome climb. You don’t need to be a rock climber, but you do have to be comfortable with heights and tall enough to hold the cables. If you’re not up for it, but do want a long hike, continue past the falls to Little Yosemite Camp, where you can watch the cable climbers.

Glacier Point to Valley Floor: This is another hike for the hearty! Use the free shuttle system so you only have to go one-way! Because you are directly across from Yosemite falls, you get a great perspective since you start above the falls, and see it at every height as you descend to the valley floor. If the kids are up for it, bribe them with a promise of ice cream at Yosemite Village and keep trekking across the valley floor.

Our review of family backcountry hiking and backpacking in Yosemite.

Museums, programs, and visitors centers:

A trip to the Yosemite Village Visitor Center and museum is absolutely worth your time. Kids (and adults) learn about geography and wildlife in the center, then can tour an outdoor Miwok village at the attached museum. We also loved the baskets on display, and during the summer months, Native American artisans are on-hand to show you their techniques. The village center also has stores, restaurants, and the like.

For winter activities and snow play, start at Yosemite lodging, such as Yosemite Lodge or Camp Curry. Both locations will have sleds to purchase and snowshoes to rent. Camp Curry has an ice-skating rink (tickets can be bought at either lodge). Guided nordic skiing tours to Glacier Point depart regularly in winter. In fall, be sure to ask about the Swinging Bridge Ladybuy Hatch. This amazing event takes place annually on the Swinging Bridge in the valley, when hundreds of thousands of ladybugs hatch. An amazing sight, and one guests can only see in autumn.

Park programs and nature walks are available year-round at Yosemite! Definitely sign up for one of the park’s watercolor classes, Junior Ranger programs, or, my current favorite: the Night Prowl. Led by a naturalist, the Night Prowl takes visitors on wooded trails by moonlight, which chances to see or hear nocturnal animals. Even if you don’t see animals, guides do a great job of relaying interesting information and conducting fun group exercises to help you adjust to the dark and understand your surroundings. This program is ideal for school-aged kids, and is a deal at only $5.50 per person.

Tip: Did you know park rangers are not the only naturalists leading guided tours and programs in Yosemite National Park? The park’s chief concessionaire also employs naturalists to lead excursions, often filling the gap left by budget cuts. These services are available to book from park lodging!

Guide to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids

February 16, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve been hearing the word ‘Iceland’ related to ‘family travel’ for a few years now. Families can have a great adventure in Iceland during the warm months (in fact, stay tuned for a guide to camping in Iceland with kids), but many people are still reluctant to try visiting Iceland in the winter with kids. It’s a great time to visit, and if you read on, I’m going to guide you through your worries and reservations so you can take advantage of visiting during this time of year.

Advantages to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids:

Fewer crowds
Cheaper
Better chance of seeing Northern Lights
Museums and sights are open year round
The hot spots/tubs/pools are a big hit in the colder weather!

Why take kids to Iceland?

Iceland is very kid-friendly with lots of museums, exhibits and sights that kids would enjoy.
If your kids enjoy swimming, they will love visiting the many, many hot spots Iceland has to offer.
Icelandic tradition is steeped in elves and trolls, making it a fun fantasy land for kids with active imaginations.
It’s a great introduction to international travel because everyone speaks English as well as Icelandic, they drive on the right hand side of the road, and the money is in Icelandic kroners but easy to figure out. Just international enough to make it exciting!

Our concerns about winter travel with kids in Iceland:

Shortened daylight hours—We visited in early January when the sunrise was at 11:30 and sunset was 3:30. But it actually gets light around 10:30 and doesn’t get dark until 4:30. Keeping the kids on east coast time, they went to bed late and slept in late, so it worked out fine. (See ”daily schedule” below.)
Weather—No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, you have to be conscious of changes in the weather and adapt your plans accordingly. The days were around 40 degrees with very little change at night. It snowed lightly some days, but nothing that made travel difficult. On a few occasions, the wind made being outside too cold. All in all, being used to cold winter weather, as long as the kids were dressed appropriately (and adults!), we were fine. (See “clothing” below.)

What to see and do along the Golden Circle:

We started out by staying in Laugarvatn, along the Golden Circle about two hours from the airport in Keflavik. We stayed at Efstidalur II, a working cattle ranch. This farm hotel is in an excellent location to explore all the sights of the Golden Circle. They serve breakfast and dinner (not included in $140 room rate for a double) and have a wonderful ice cream parlor downstairs.

From this hotel, we could easily access Geysir, home of the famous Geysir and Stokkur geysers. This is a short walk along a path. It is a bit touristy, but a must. There is a café, restaurant and gift shop. It’s also close to Gulfoss, home of Iceland’s most famous double waterfall, Golden Falls. This can be reached by walking along a path along the top of the ridge as well as down to the bottom of the falls. This location is not to be missed.

Pingvellir National Park is Iceland’s most important historical site where the Vikings established the first democratic parliament. It is also where the North American and Eurasian techtonic plates meet causing a huge fissure. There are many paths into the park from several parking areas. You can visit amazing waterfalls as well as walk along the giant fissure to a visitor center. Near Pingvellir is Fakasel Icelandic Horse Park. We did not go here, but it was recommended to us by locals. You can take a barn tour and see an evening show.

Hot springs to visit in the Golden Circle area:

Gamia Laugin (Secret Lagoon) in Fludir. This was wonderful. Bus tours visit here, so you need to come either before 3:30 or after 5:30. You can email them and request a time that is not during their tour hours to guarantee you get in. This pool is in beautiful rustic outdoor setting but with modern shower facilities and towel rentals. Kids loved floating around on the noodles provided and diving down for smooth stones along the bottom. Water was almost too hot for the kids for very long.

Fontano geothermal pool in Laugarvatn. This is a more modern facility with several man-made pools, hot tubs and shallow wading pools. It is also next to a lake you can go into (cold!) and then return to a hot pool. Kids loved this one too because they could play in the shallow water and not get so hot!

What we saw along the Ring Road south of Reykjavik:

Just beyond Selfoss, the Ring Road becomes very interesting with lots of green houses and Icelandic horses. After Hella there is flood zone that was covered in muddy lava fromt ohe 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull.

Seljalandsfoss waterfalls—this is a roadside pull out with paths (icy!) to several impressive waterfalls. There were restrooms but no food service. Lots of jagged cave entrances and rock outcroppings.
Skogafoss waterfall—another road side stop with a path to the top of a huge waterfall. There is a restaurant here.
Just beyond this in Skogar is the Skogar Folk Museum that we did not have time for, but sounded like it would be fun for kids.
We did not make it as far as Vik, but would have liked to have seen its beach.

Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon:

There’s so much to do in this part of Iceland in winter! Start with the Blue Lagoon: since this is the most famous of all the geothermal pools in Iceland, we had to visit! You need to make and pay for reservations in advance on line. You sign up for a day and time. We almost missed our time, but it would have been okay if we were a little late. This is pricey and very touristy, but it is also pretty amazing. It’s a huge lake, basically, with swim up bars. It gets quite deep and kids have to wear water wings, no matter what their swimming ability, to go out into the deeper water. Our kids did NOT like this rule at all and I wish I had been able to prepare them for it. There is a snack bar but other than a really fancy restaurant, no regular café-type food.

There is a lot to see and do with kids in Reykjavik in the winter. If you are staying in the city center or old town, it is easy to walk everywhere. When booking your accommodations, make sure you are not on a busy street. The bars and pubs stay open all hours and are noisy at night Book a walking tour. We booked a walking tour with “Your Friend in Reykjavik”. Read about them on line or on TripAdvisor. It was just the six of us and our tour guide adapted the tour so the kids would have fun as well. On their recommendation, we booked it on a Saturday so we could visit the Saturday Flea Market. It was a two-hour tour through Old Town, the harbor, the city center, flea market and the town lake, Tjornin, where we fed ducks. This family run company was also very helpful before we even got to Iceland, with lots of insider recommendations and suggestions. Here are a few Reykjavik highlights:

Saga Museum—This is a wax museum where you where a set a headphones and are guided through the museum listening to Viking history. It is a bit graphic and our 6 year old wasn’t crazy about it, but it was fun for the rest of us. It has a kid play area where you can dress up. It is in the harbor area. The museum has a fancy restaurant, but there are several cafes long the harbor.

Settlement Exhibition—This museum is built around the excavation of an ancient Viking long house. It is underground and has lots of very cool computer generated effects. There is also a really nice kids area with dress up, games, coloring sheets and a Viking set up. Highly recommended.

Hallgrimskirkja church elevator—take the elevator up to the top of this iconic church to get some great views.

Open Air Museum (Arbaer)—this was only open during the week for 2:00 tours, and our weather didn’t really cooperate but it would be a great place to take kids if it were nice outside.

National Museum—we did not take the kids to this, but it has very well organized displays and there were lots of kids in the museum. It has a separate head set program for kids.

The Laundromat Café—this is a great family restaurant with a downstairs play area for kids. We ate here four different times! It’s just minutes from Old Reykjavik along the main shopping street of Laugavegur.

Laugardalslaug swim complex—We had to drive to this, but it was only about 10 minutes. This is a huge complex that has several full size pools and a lot of smaller hot tubs around it. The kids loved it because it had a twisty slide you could go down.

Up next, packing advice and practical tips for visiting Iceland in winter with kids! Click on the button below to continue.

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