traveling with kids Archives

24 nov 2019

Backpacking with Children » 5 Reasons To Do It

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On november 24, 2019 With No Comments

Do you know what backpacking means? If you type the word into Google you will find about 235.00 results. To many, backpacking means freedom, adventure, fun, meeting new people, and having little or nothing to fall back on. In short, a journey of discovery!

So when you have children, does this all change? As a mother of two, people often me and my partner how we ‘do it’ and they wonder if backpacking with children is even possible. I wasn’t always this flexible about travelling with my children so I understand where this question is coming from. It sounds exciting and adventurous but maybe it’s a bit too much? Here are 5 reasons why backpacking with children is always a good idea.

1. Create Forever Lasting Memories!

The great advantage of backpacking is that you get to travel and therefore you experience more. For children, it is often an impressive experience. They experience new things they have never seen before. We make the lives of our children richer by showing them the world. And best of all, you and your family will create memories that will never be forgotten.

Cheryl’s family Backpacking through Asia

I loved traveling when I was single. I love traveling with my wife. But I love it more now that I have kids. – Santorini Dave

2. Freedom and Adventure

Backpacking means travelling around from location to location. You don’t need a fixed plan. The whole idea of backpacking is to be flexible. Arrived some place and want to stay longer? Then do! Our advice for backpacking with children is to prepare your trip. For us this means we select a view accommodations at each location (so when we arrive we can make fast decisions). Flights we book in advance, any other transport we arrange at the destination. Choose train & bus above the plane (unless your kids are very young, then travel less locations or lower the distance). Any other preparation is not necessary, you’ll handle it!

3. It’s good for your budget

Feel like exploring the world with your children but you don’t have a large budget? Backpacking is low budget travel. Sometimes you’ll find a hidden gem, sometimes you end up in a little less more pleasant environment. Don’t focus to much on what the accommodation looks like, as long as it’s clean it will be fine (and the kids will be ok). Try to select your next stay with the children. Keep their wishes in mind!

Taking care of their own backpack makes them more independent

4. They learn to be a little bit independent

It starts even before you head off on your little adventure. Give older children in your family some responsibility during traveling. It makes them grow in their self esteem because they contribute to family interests. Taking care of their own backpack makes them more independent and last year our daughter Jessie (then 11 years old) purchased and carried her own backpack. Of course you need to decide as a parent if your child is physically able to handle this. Not every eleven-year-old is the same. Our daughter liked to have her own backpack. Because she’d have to carry her own stuff she packed less! responsible!

5. You realise anything is possible

If you decide to take your children on an adventure, you are taking a leap of faith and yes, it can be scary. But how cool is it when you’ve actually done it! Backpacking is all about surprises and backpacking with children is the 3.0 version of that. A lot of people regret things in life, just because they didn’t do something. Break the rules and be different. Be that person that has no regrets. And look back at it with pride, no matter how the experience was. A fact is, that you did it and that itself, is pretty damn awesome.

Traveling by boat, Cheryl has done it all

Tip! Lower your expectations

If you are a hardcore adventurer and backpacker, you might want to lower your expectations a little bit. The truth is, backpacking with children will be a bit different from doing it by yourself. You have more responsibilities and it starts with the items you pack. This time, bring the first aid kit that you would normally leave at home, research the area you’re traveling to and the list goes on. Once you are prepared, your backpacking adventure will be a lot more relaxing.

Tip! The less you bring, the better!

A suitcase with 30 kg of clothes, shoes (and more) sounds interesting until you have to travel from one location to another (and you have to carry that large heavy thing everywhere). From my own experience: this will make you cry. The suitcase is a NO-GO, buy or borrow a backpack.

Tip! Take care of yourself and invest in a backpack!

Find an outdoor shop and try a number of different backpacks. You will see (and experience) that there’s a real difference in types. Find a store on and try several (including weights!), but we love this backpack for kids.

Love,

Cheryl

Wander-Lust now has a TRAVELING WITH KIDS section, check it out!

15 dec 2018

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Traveling with Kids With No Comments Permalink

Must have for traveling parents » JetKids BedBox by Stokke

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On december 15, 2018 With No Comments

Traveling with kids can be challenging. The traveling parent knows that when you’re kid is happy, you are happy. Thank god for the JetKids BedBox that I tested on my latest flight.

Family Time
When I was 11 years old, my sister moved to Germany and she has been living there for over 25 years. I lived in London for over seven years, traveled the world since then, and my parents stay in Bali every winter. Because of our exploring nature, we are not always together during the holidays. And since I have become a mum, the need to see each other is getting bigger. This year is no different, I’m traveling to Asia during the holiday season, so it was time for a quick pre- Christmas visit to my sisters house in Germany, and I took my little boy and my mum along to surprise them.

Flying to Freiburg, Germany

Flying home for Christmas

Surprise! My son and niece are reunited just in time for Christmas

The JetKids by Stokke Collection is specially designed so that parents can travel smarter with their children.

Hassle Free Travel
My sis lives near The Black Forest in the south of Germany, so it’s only a short flight to Basel. However, if you are traveling with a young child, any minute in the plane has to be accounted for. I bring books, drawing materials, toys and food, but kids are kids, and you should make them as comfortable as you can, to survive a hassle free travel experience. If you are a parent, you must have heard of Stokke, famous for their innovating and award winning kids chair. Since of May 2018, they own 51% of JetKids. This new collaboration between the 2 Norwegian brands means that they can offer even better solutions in the ever growing market of family travel.

Stokke famous for their kids chair, owns 51% of JetKids since May 2018

Business Class Treatment for your child
And aren’t they lucky, these kids nowadays! You can turn their economy seat into a business class experience by transforming their chair into a bed or seat extender in no time. I brought my JetKids BedBox for the first time, and even though it was a short flight, I can totally see the advantages. This is how it works;

Pack your JetKids Bedbox with your child’s favourite items. Don’t forget to include the mattress that comes along with this version. (I was pleasantly surprised how much actually fit into the JetKids Bedbox!)
When you arrive in the plane, store the JetKids Bedbox under the seat in front of you. Once the seatbelt signs are off, it’s easier to install!
Click off the cover by pressing the sides, turn it around and attach again. You can adjust the height to your need.
Use the long strap and attach it to your child’s seat (there is a bar under the seat where you can wrap the strap around. And attach it back to the JetKids.
Slide out the extension towards the seat your child will be sitting on.
Roll out the mattress onto the seat and attach the sides.
Your little one is ready to chill!

Chillin’ to the max

The Jetkids BedBox comes in three new colours; Pink Lemonade, Green Aurora en Blue Sky. You can pimp your JetKids suitcase with the stickers that are included. Pretty cool!

Jetkids Bedbox or Ridebox?
Is there no need for a bed during your trip, or is the BedBox not (yet) allowed by the airline company or is your child just too big for the bed? Then choose the JetKids by Stokke RideBox. This new case offers the same features as the BedBox, except for the parts to make a bed. It is therefore possible to ride on the suitcase and it can easily be pulled by both child and parents by the adjustable strap. The BedBox and RideBox both have wheels, and are suitable to ride from the age of 3 up until 7 years old.

There remains just one question.. when will Stokke create a BedBox for adults? Sincerely, a jealous mum 😉

JetKids by Stokke is available ONLINE.

Love,

Elke

05 jun 2018

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Asia, Bali, Traveling with Kids With No Comments Permalink

Bali With Kids » 5 Activities to do with your Family

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On juni 5, 2018 With No Comments

Last year Cheryl flew to Bali with her family & friends. Two years ago, her group of 38 friends (that also have kids) decided to get together at a destination outside Europe. The destination was quickly picked decision: Bali. Back in Holland, with a bag full of tips Cheryl will share her best tips on what to do in Bali with kids.

Go Surfing

If your kids are older and love the ocean: go surfing. Ok, I must admit, this was actually a dream come true for myself (and I persuaded my daughter of twelve, to come along). I always wanted to learn how to ride the waves. In the South of Bali there are many surf schools to choose from. I found my surf teacher, as cheeky as it sounds, on TripAdvisor. For a two-hour private lesson, you’ll pay around 450K IRP(which is about €27,-) per person. In these two hours, I’ve learned to stand on the board while surfing. (worth a shoulder brush right?)

Chasing Waterfalls

Kids love visiting waterfalls during holiday’s. I’ve did some research before we left and decided to go for 2 waterfalls:

The Sekumpul waterfall is the most breathtaking waterfall I’ve ever seen. Mind you, this waterfall is not suitable for little children (babies or toddlers) because of the difficult hike to get there. But my O my, what a view! Be prepared for this trail. Make sure you have good shoes and enough water for the kids! Costs: 20.000 IRP p/p.
At the Aling-Aling waterfalls are some thrilling activities for adults and older children (+8). Cliff jumping (5 and 10 meters) and there are also natural water slides. After I tried the 12-meter-high waterslide, my little daredevil also took her chance for this once in a life time experience! For this waterfall we had to pay 125K IRP p/p because there are many guides who help with the activities and watch the children.

The impressive Sekumpul waterfall with the kids

Waterbom Park

Personally, I’m not a waterpark kind of girl. But this one you have to try if you go to Bali with kids. This Waterbom Park happens to be number one in Asia and number three in the world! It had 22 rides and attractions and you can even relax, eat or just go crazy on all the rides. For the adrenaline junkies; go to the Climax. Stand in a small chamber before the trap door opens, and you plummet 16 meters down a near vertical drop. Fly through the rest of the ride at 70kph, and don’t forget to breathe again when you get to the end. For more info and video’s check www.facebook.com/Waterbom

WaterBom park (source)

Visit Menjangan Island

Even though you have some coral bleaching here too, it is still a fantastic place to dive or snorkel! The ridges and slopes are super dramatic, and the fish are beautiful! You can also spot the occasional reef shark or sea turtle if you’re lucky, so all in one: a great and exiting place for kids. Also, you can actually find Nemo. Snorkling here will cost around 15,- per person.

Hey there little buddy!

Spot Some MANTA’s (or not)

We traveled to Nusa Lembongan to spot some manta’s. Most of time they are easy to spot (they said). Unfortunately, not always. It’s difficult to predict their presence but in July, August and September is the best time to spot some manta’s. If you book a day-boat and can’t spot the manta’s: don’t be sad: there are also lots of nice snorkling places with nice coral around the area. Don’t miss out the spot where the Giant Trevally Fish swim. It might be bit scary at first, because these fish can become 1.7 meters long! I was assured that they are not dangerous so took a dive with my little daredevils! 200K IRP (per person).

Bali with kids and friends? A vacation not to forget!

Don’t forget to love, enjoy and treasure every moment with your loved ones. After all, LIFE IS A PARTY, also when you have kids! Are you visiting Bali for the first time? Find out what to expect and what you should know before heading to the island of gods.

Love,

Cheryl

*Cheryl is a mother of 2, with a love for travel. Having 2 kids didn’t stop her from traveling the world and she has become somewhat of an expert when it comes to traveling with children.

11 apr 2018

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Amsterdam Guide, Traveling with Kids Permalink

Tried & Tested » Nemo, Science Museum in Amsterdam

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On april 11, 2018

Did you know there are so many cool things to do in Amsterdam if you have kids? One of those is Nemo, the science Museum. I had a look and checked out why it’s so popular.

When you enter the museum, the first thing you see is what my niece calls the “soap bubble area“. You can create giant soap bubbles and some are even big enough to stand in. There are several floors in Nemo and perhaps it’s best to describe them one by one.

The “Fenomena“ area is full with science we encounter every day like sound and movement. This is also the floor that is most suitable for smaller children. They can learn here how the reflection of sound waves works, why some objects that look the same but are made of an other material, move faster then others and what happends when you mix different colours of light. Here they also have the 15 minute Chain Reaction that they show several times a day. This is great fun for young and old and is moderated in dutch and english.

At the “Technium“ there is a very big machine with coloured balls that show you how a logistic process can work. You can set off an order and see how the balls move around the machine and in the end reach their intended destination. In this area you can also visit the world of shapes, huge or tiny chairs to sit on, a big wheel that slowly turns and in which you can create beautiful patterns and a room where you can trick your brain, because small kids turn into giants and the other way around…my nieces favourite!

Is it real or just an illusion?

At the “Elementa“ you can find the exhibition: Life in the Universe. They have this huge screen where you can play a videogame and protect the earth from dangers from outta space such as comets, meteorites and Solar Wind. The kids take a shield and hold them above their heads and the movement is shown on the screen. Kids from every age love this exhibition. They also offer 30 min. science workshops, that starts at 11:00 during the weekends, and during the week at 12:30pm. Kids from age 6 can attent. Unfortunately we ran out of time and didn’t have time for it.

NEMO; Living in space

At the top floor there is, among other things, an exhibition about puberty. For my 7 year old niece this wasn’t so interesting, although the french-kiss-machine caught her eye! haha. Most of the experiments and tests on this floor are for older kids. The same applies to the journey through the mind on the same floor. Very interesting though!

At the top floor you can also find objects from the past and future

Nemo is located near the central station and surrounded by water

Food and Drink
Nemo has a very nice restaurant with a large outdoor terrace which is also accessible without a museum ticket. Totally worth a visit, because it has a nice view over Amsterdam. There is an outdoor exhibition called “energetica“ with wind- and water-sculptures, pretty cool! There are also 2 smaller cafés inside the museum where you can get drinks or enjoy a Dutch “tosti”. Prices in the restaurant are above average but still ok.

Good to Know

There are free lockers which are video surveillance, so you can leave your stroller or buggy there if you do not want to take it into the museum.
If you can, go on Saturdays rather then on a Sunday, it is a little less busy. Rush hour is between 12 and 2 pm because the early birds and the people that arrive a little later, overlap. Most people stay around 3-4 hours in the museum, so manage your time carefully.
It’s not encouraged, but you can bring your own food into the museum. Great for people with allergies!
Prizes: kids up to 3 years old are free! From 3+ years, you pay €16,50,-

Verdict:

Nemo rocks. It’s so cool that they’ve designed a massive museum, just for children and their families. More importantly, Nemo triggers, teaches and inspire, all at the same time. All in all, I had a great day and spent 3 hours in the museum, but I could have easily stayed much longer.

Nemo, Science Museum
Oosterdok 2, Amsterdam
Website

Love,

Elke

*All photo’s are shot by DigiDaan

09 jan 2018

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Traveling with Kids Permalink

7 unmissable travel gadgets for kids

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On januari 9, 2018

When you’re traveling with children you might wonder which gadgets cannot be missed whilst travelling. Which gadgets you need also depends on the age of your children. A baby has different needs than a teenager obviously. I have created a list of the 7 most important travel gadgets for kids that will make traveling as comfortable as possible.

1. Ipad (or tablet)
A well-deserved first place because where would we be without the iPad? It doesn’t matter which model you take with you, just download a few nice movies and apps and your traveling is a success. A tip for parents: download a few series from Netflix in advance so you and hubby can watch your favorite serie while the kids are asleep.

2. Bluetooth headset
A headphone specially designed for children, often have smaller ear cups and are available in the most beautiful and funky colors. Headphones for children are limited to prevent hearing damage so pay attention when using the maximum volume for a long time. Our children (12 and 8) have a JBL T450BT and are very satisfied with it!

3. Powerbanks
Traveling without electronic equipment is almost unthinkable nowadays. Mobile phones, iPads, Bluetooth headset, camera’s and I can go on and on. During a long flight, power banks are a must have. Nothing is more annoying when the iPad drops dead during a fun movie for the children. Be prepared.

4. Kelty-Child-Carrier
If you are an adventurous traveler and you have kids, you’re going to love the Kelty Child Carrier. This way you and your child can enjoy the view plus you can store your belongings, food and water inside the attached backpack. The 5-point child harness has a convenient child leg-secure system and is comfortable. It was voted as one of the best hiking essentials if you’re traveling with kids and can carry a child up to 18kg! Get it here.

The best travel gadget for kids?

5. Go Pro
Ok, this gadget is also fun for parents. The Go Pro is an action camera and is especially suitable for filming during extreme conditions. Adventurous journeys must be recorded right? The Go Pro is especially recommended with kids because you can also take the camera into the sea and the pool. Children can play with it for hours and you end up beautiful images and movies. There are also special accessories available for children that make filming even easier (the chest harness for example).

6. Jetkids Bedbox
OH MY … if only I had done this discovery sooner … What an innovative solution for sleeping on the plane. I’ve had some night flights with my kids let me tell you! Picture this: four chairs where two children sleep across their two parents (not very comfortable). This invention is a gift from heaven for parents with young children. The time of giving up your own personal space on the plane is a thing of the past!

7. MIFI
Are you a family with teenagers? Then you understand how important WIFI is. There is no existence without WIFI for teenagers (this is an outright disaster). A MIFI can be a godsend! Buy a SIM card with data at your destination and you have Wi-Fi throughout. Your teenager will be so so happy with you! We have the Mifi of TP-link M7350. Works perfectly!

TIP: Although we understand that kids like to spend time on their iPads and other electronic devices, it’s of course much more important to enjoy new adventures and cultures. After all, to travel is to live.

Love,

Cheryl

*Cheryl is a mother of 2, with a love for travel. Having 2 kids didn’t stop her from traveling the world and she has become somewhat of an expert when it comes to traveling with children. She will write for Wander-Lust once a month where she will provide you with the best traveling tips for and with children! Find out more on her blog: travellingwithkids.nl

Wander-Lust now has a TRAVELING WITH KIDS section, check it out!

23 okt 2017

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Travel Tips, Traveling with Kids With 1 Comment Permalink

7 tips to make traveling with your kids as relaxed as possible

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On oktober 23, 2017 With 1 Comment

Do you have children? Then you might recognise yourself in this daunting thought; traveling with your kids. This fear may even lead to the decision of not traveling long distance at all. I have some good news for you, it’s not that hard! It’s even possible to sit down relax and enjoy the ride… These are 7 useful tips to make travelling with kids as relaxed as possible.

1. You will survive
Inhale and take a deep breathe. Accept the fact that travelling with your kids won’t always go as planned. It might be an overwhelming thought, but the most important thing to remember is: this will end. You will get to the destination. You will survive!

2. Well begun is half done
Do yourself (and others!) a favor and prepare yourself and your kids for the trip. If your children are old enough, the best thing to do is inform them about the travelling time and what the day will look like. For example: ask them what they need during the 12-hour flight. My kids love their Donald Duck magazines or books they can read. Bring some snacks, travel games and their favorite cuddly toy. The little screens in the chairs are a godsend for those traveling with small children, and for those sitting around them. If you have your own technology, bring it!

Keep them busy

3. Pack smart
In 2014, we traveled through Asia with our family (2 adults, 2 kids, age 6 & 10) with only two backpacks! We seemed to forget that almost everything can be bought abroad. It might not be ‘your’ favorite brand but you’ll manage. When your kids are old and strong enough; let them carry their own stuff (it will make them think twice about all those clothing and footwear they want to pack! My tip for smart & easy packing: packing cubes. Travel packing cubes are the ultimate luggage organizers and maximize the space in your bag.

Traveling with your kids to Thailand? No problem!

Be flexible on your trip, because a child’s mood and interests can change constantly.

4. Track your kids
It’s THE worst horror scenario for parents: your child lost. From our own experience, we can strongly advise: never assume a friend or relative is watching over your kid. We did this once and lost our daughter for about 30 minutes at the airport (not cool, and thankfully she was OK). A simple solution is to write your own name and phone number on their arm. That way, if they are found, you can be contacted easily. It’s also possible to invest in a GPS tracking device. These days you cannot be careful enough and this way you might feel a lot more at ease.

5. Necessary preps
Some country’s really need some good preparation, for both pre- and during the journey. Does your baby need a visa? Should you bring medication, e.g. malaria tablets or get vaccinations? You don’t want to get caught out last minute. Check your local health authority for all the info.

6. Be flexible and go with the flow
Of course, the goal of your travel is to create memories. Keep in mind that children need time to burn off energy and enjoy the company of other kids of their own age. Parents also need quiet periods to rest and some other adult-company as well. Be flexible on your trip, because a child’s mood and interests can change constantly. (but i’m sure you knew that!) If you and your kids find something else you’d rather do, be spontaneous and go with the flow. No stress means happy holidays!

7. Keep calm and enjoy
Go easy on your kids and leave the over-disciplining at home. This doesn’t mean you should let your kids run wild (this will not be appreciated by the people around you) but if you’re working on something with your child and it comes up on the plane, well you’re probably best to not use this as a learning experience. Keeping the kids calm is more valuable than using every teachable moment. Those around you will appreciate it. This certainly made my traveling experience a lot more relaxing!

Hope these tips help!

Love,

Cheryl

*Cheryl is a mother of 2, with a love for travel. Having 2 kids didn’t stop her from traveling the world and she has become somewhat of an expert when it comes to traveling with children. She will write for Wander-Lust once a month where she will provide you with the best traveling tips for and with children! Find out more on her blog: travellingwithkids.extrememedia.nl