Get ready for your next vacation with these kid-friendly travel tips, perfect for traveling across country or even globetrotting around the world.

The summer season is just around the corner, which means that memory-making adventures are on the horizon. After all, the biggest gift we can give our kids is time: time creating, time discovering, and time together. When planning a vacation, whether you’ll be traveling internationally, road-tripping across the country, or romping around in nature at a nearby forest preserve, there’s much to consider.

As a seasoned travel writer and a mother of three, I’ve been all over the globe with my brood, exploring not only far-flung destinations like Peru, Japan, and India but also closer-to-home outdoorsy locales like our national and state parks. Let me tell you, I’ve learned some helpful tips along the way. Additionally, I’ve reached out to other parents and caregivers, including a pediatric doctor, to get their tips for successful summer travel with kids.

Take a Deep Breath

Traveling with kiddos for the first time? Akanksha Shrivastava Hanna, MD, pediatrician in Park Ridge, Illinois, says that you should start by taking a deep breath.

“Parents want to make sure we plan for everyone and everything to create the best trip possible,” says Hanna. “A great step to take is to acknowledge we won’t see or do everything, and that’s fine. Set reasonable goals, [have] a flexible itinerary, be as prepared as you can, and be ready to pivot since travel is not always a smooth process. Making lists is helpful and think of your child’s needs for an entire day, including meals, toiletries, car travel, and safe sleep equipment.”

Find a Playground or Outdoor Space

Playing outside is a great way to burn off energy and have a healthy reset. Go on a hike, stop at a local playground, or take the dogs to a fenced-in park. Your little ones will thank you.

Janette Thompson is currently enjoying a gap year with her family in tow as they travel across Asia. “While traveling we usually research the surrounding areas for playgrounds, parks, and other child-friendly activities,” Thompson says.

Pack Light

If you can swing it, pack everything you need in carry-on luggage. The last thing you want to do on vacation is constantly worry about managing and schlepping everyone’s large suitcases. Rather than checking luggage, waiting for it on the other end at the baggage carousel, or trying to figure out what to do if it gets lost or misplaced, if you carry on what you need, you can fly through the airport much faster. Plus, light luggage makes it easier when switching hotels and locales.

“Moving large luggage multiple times on a trip is exhausting and logistically challenging,” says Thompson.

Don’t Stuff Too Much into the Itinerary

I have a confession to make. As a curious traveler, I often operate with FOMO: fear of missing out. When I’m traveling by myself, I like a full itinerary with lots of activities and very little downtime. I want to make the most of my experience, especially if I’m visiting a country I’ve never been to before. But here’s the thing: kids need breaks. Lots of breaks. If you plan too much and don’t leave enough space for their needs or interests, you might find that moods shift and sour.

Producer, TV host, photographer, and writer, Rachel Rudwall, travels with her family somewhere warm at least once per year. “Take, for example, our journey to Sardinia, Italy from Portland, Oregon. Not a single person would argue that this trip is logistically simple,” Rudwall says. “We would, however, argue that this journey was both doable and worth the haul—even with our then 14-month-old in tow.”

Sardinia was where her toddler took his first steps, creating an indelible memory not soon forgotten. While the beach time and Italian food were expected highlights, the multi-hour flight itinerary from the U.S. to Sardinia was less than desirable. Rudwall thought ahead and arranged for a two-night stopover in Amsterdam, creating space to deal with jet lag. “This layover allowed us a soft spot to land between our flights, plus a beautiful couple days noshing on pastries and enjoying leisurely strolls in another wonderful European destination,” Rudwall says. “If I were to offer one piece of advice it would be this: wherever you go with your kids, build in buffers. These bonus windows of time will offer you the space to breathe, top up on snacks, and better navigate logistical challenges. Plus, they just might inspire some of your favorite moments of the journey.”

Bring a Travel Medical Kit

While we all hope that nothing goes wrong on a trip, you’ll want to be prepared and plan accordingly. Put together a travel medical kit that includes over-the-counter medicines and supplies.

“This can include fever-reducing/pain medications, antihistamines, antibacterial ointment, band-aids, tweezers, and Vaseline,” says Hanna. “Make note of your child’s weight for dosing certain medications and make sure you have a supply of prescription medicines ahead of time. Discuss with your medical team if your child has medical conditions.”

“In warmer climates remember to pack reef-safe sunscreens (and reapply), bug sprays, and protective clothing (hats, sunglasses, UV-protected clothing),” Hanna says. “If heading outdoors, be sure to keep most skin covered and check bodies and hair for ticks daily. Before traveling internationally, consider notifying your child’s pediatrician if any additional recommended immunizations can be given. I guide parents to CDC.GOV/travel which breaks down pertinent information by country of travel.”

Research the Hotel and Destination Ahead of Time

While it’s advisable to leave plenty of open space on the itinerary, it’s important to research where you’re going and to know what activities and cultural experiences are available. What is the area known for and what are the highlights that everyone should know about? You’ll also want to know what the hotel amenities are so you can plan accordingly. Is there a swimming pool at the hotel? On-site laundry? Does the resort have a concierge that can arrange tours? Finding a property that is fun for both the parents and the kids is key.

Let the Kids Be Part of the Planning

If children are part of the planning process, they’ll be more invested in the trip. Let them decide which restaurant your family eats at or what activity everyone participates in. Teach kids how to navigate and read maps. Bring journals and encourage them to write about their daily adventures.

“Parents can get caught up in the things they want to do on vacation since kids don’t exactly plan these things out, but we’ve made it a priority to make sure that the kids think of it as their vacation too, so if we pass by something that interests them, we want to make those things happen as much as possible,” says Thompson.

Keep the Ages of Kids in Mind When Planning and Packing

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, you’ll want to consider your children’s ages when structuring an itinerary or thinking about safety issues.

“With younger children we want them to be comfortable and safe, so keep some soothing items from home such as blankets, pacifiers, a few toys, or a stuffy,” says Hanna. “Older kids can enjoy music, books, card games or using their electronic device[s]—remember, parents get to decide how much screen time their child consumes, and don’t forget the chargers!”

Of course, safety should always be top of mind. Depending on your children’s ages, have discussions with them to go over the rules. “In new environments, review the safety plans regarding water play (never leave a child unattended near water) and review parent phone numbers—consider putting them inside their pockets,” says Hanna. “Trusting our older kids with more responsibility comes with varying comfort levels, but in a semi-controlled environment, this can be a good opportunity for them to demonstrate it, i.e., reading the map, guiding you through the airport, having them order their meals or pay for souvenirs. Learning how to budget on a trip with spending money is a nice exercise.”

Bring a Bag O’ Fun

For every car trip I’ve ever planned, I’ve always brought a “bag o’ fun”. This could be a deck of cards, snacks, new books, or mini-Lego sets. The idea is to bring along little surprises or fun things to do that will brighten up the moment.

Anastasia Gonzalez and her husband Gilbert take their grandchildren to South Padre Island every summer for fishing and exploring. One year they rented an RV to travel from Illinois to Texas. “It was the most beautiful experience,” Gonzalez says. “The driving, the board games, camping out, taking showers at the campsites, sleeping in the RV, and cuddling with those two boys was wonderful and cozy.”

Her advice for grandparents? “Allow your grandchildren to be themselves with you on your trip,” Gonzalez says. “Go with the idea of having fun. Break some rules. Ask what they want but have a plan. Make meals interesting and make one night a special meal night.”

Attitudes, Good or Bad, are Contagious

Most parents who travel with their kids will tell you that if one person has a bad attitude, that same mood can transfer to siblings or even adults. Staying positive is key, especially if you’re on a long vacation away from the comforts of home.

“Kids love time with their family, but they are humans, and we all get moody sometimes,” says Hanna. “Our kids learn by our example, so parents take the lead with many deep breaths, exercise when possible, be mindful about handling stressful situations, and take lots of pictures. Parental well-being trickles down into children’s well-being.”

It’s the holiday of your dreams and you’re having the best time. The last thing you need is to fall ill.

If you’re travelling overseas you might have to deal with jet lag, so you don’t want to get sick on top of that.

When you’re on holiday, you tend to want to take a break from your day-to-day routine.

Like partying all night and going to bed late, not exercising or forgetting about that strict diet you’re on.

Of course, you want to be more relaxed but you could open yourself up to illnesses like the flu or a tummy bug.

If you want to stay healthy during your trip here are some tips to help you do so.

Stay hydrated

It’s easy to forget to drink enough water while you’re on the go, but staying hydrated is essential for your overall well-being.

Carry a reusable water bottle with you and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

In some places, you might find that tap water isn’t safe to drink. In such cases, it’s best to buy bottled water.

Eat mindfully

While it’s tempting to indulge in local cuisines and treats while travelling, try to make healthy food choices whenever possible.

Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel your body and keep your energy levels up.

Get moving

Don’t let your travel itinerary disrupt your fitness routine. Look for opportunities to stay active while on the road, whether it’s going for a jog in a new city or simply going for a walk to explore your surroundings.

Prioritise sleep

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of travelling and sacrifice sleep, but getting enough rest is crucial for your health.

Aim to get at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night to recharge your body and mind for the next day’s adventures.

Pack essentials

Don’t forget to pack items that will help support your wellness goals while travelling, such as sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitiser, and any medications or supplements you may need.

Listen to your body

Pay attention to how you’re feeling during your travels and adjust your activities accordingly.

If you’re feeling tired or unwell, don’t push yourself too hard and give yourself the rest and care you need.

I get overwhelmed just thinking about the effort it takes to plan, pay for, and physically take my tired, unexfoliated body on a summer trip. But then I remember that it’s almost always worth it. Even a wet, buggy camping misadventure has the upside of making your regular life seem like a vacation by comparison. (Or so I seem to recall from the last time I camped, approximately seven years ago.) The point is, it’s good to get a change of scene.

That said, nothing spoils a vacation like being on edge about how much it costs. There’s too much pressure! If you drop a bunch of money on a hotel and your Wi-Fi doesn’t work or the room smells funny or your window overlooks a parking lot, you’ll spend the whole time seething about how much more you would enjoy spending the same amount on Seamless with a view of Netflix from your own couch.

Of course, the sweet spot is to get out of town, take a break from your routine, and do things you enjoy without racking up a bill that will erase your postholiday glow. This can be difficult, especially during peak vacation season in July and August. A recent survey found that about 60 percent of Americans plan to travel this summer and one in five plan to spend “significantly more” than they did last year. (This isn’t just because things are more expensive — people are planning more lavish trips.)

If you, like me, do not plan to be one of those people, what are the best ways to save money on summer travel this year? I asked a bunch of financial experts for tips they are currently giving their clients — and are using themselves.

1. Decide in advance what you’re willing to spend on and what you aren’t.

Obviously, everything is a trade-off. But it’s smart to consider which financial compromises you’re willing to make before you get talked into a lobster dinner after a few glasses of wine on your first night in Lisbon. “Reflect on what you really enjoy and splurge on those things while ‘cheaping’ out on others,” says Megan McCoy, a financial therapist and professor of financial planning at Kansas State University.

It’s also worth thinking about where your money will go the furthest, says Katie Gatti, the host of Money With Katie. “I am almost always willing to pay more for better flight times,” she says. “While you may be tempted to save $150 by opting for the 6 a.m. flight with two connections, the connections take time out of your trip, and it’s torture to wake up at 3 a.m. To me, spending a little more on a direct flight at the time I want goes a disproportionately long way.” (Alternatively, if you would rather sacrifice a few hours of vacation and/or sleep to save a few hundred bucks on your flight, do it!)

Also, consider the location of your hotel. “Some people like to splurge on fancy properties or better rooms, but I generally find that spending a little more on location is a good investment,” Gatti says. “It means that you spend less time and money on public transportation or rideshares once you arrive, which can affect how much you enjoy the trip and what you’re able to do in your limited time there.”

Personally, I have hard rules for what I will and won’t spend money on while I’m traveling so that I don’t hem and haw over every temptation. For example, I generally refuse to pay for travel upgrades. I will be miserable on any airplane, no matter what kind of seat I’m in, so it’s not worth it to me to pay hundreds of dollars more for four more inches of legroom. I also have a policy against shopping while traveling (I learned this after I bought a hat that looked so cool in Santa Fe but that I absolutely could not pull off at home). This includes souvenirs. No one wants a shot glass from New Orleans. Or if they do, they won’t be getting it from me.

Conversely, I will spend money on nice drinks, good food, art museums, and anything that allows me to skip a long line. You can hate my rules and I don’t care! You get to make your own.

2. Talk to people who live where you’re going or know a lot about it.

“Connect with at least one person who lives locally and knows the area well who can give you tips on things to see, do, and eat for less,” says Farnoosh Torabi, host of the podcast So Money and author of multiple best-selling books on personal finance. “These suggestions might be off the beaten path but more authentic and less touristy.” (Another upside to knowing locals is that they might invite you over for dinner and you’ll get to see how people actually live — also fun and free-ish.)

If you don’t know anyone who lives where you’re going, cast around for people you trust (and have a similar lifestyle — i.e., budget) who have recently visited and ask them what they recommend and what they don’t. This is how I wound up in a strange neighborhood in Mexico City visiting a free art fair in an abandoned convent that was easily the coolest thing I saw on that trip.

Touristy places are always more expensive, usually crawling with other tourists, and probably just as cool as some other less famous spot that hasn’t been tagged by a million influencers. So why not try the latter?

3. Extend your vacation mentally.

Traveling someplace new can have huge benefits for your psyche — research has found that it’s linked to open-mindedness, emotional intelligence, and enhanced creativity. You can milk these effects by appreciating your destination before you get there and after you return, says Manisha Thakor, a certified financial planner and author of MoneyZen: The Secret to Finding Your Enough.

“A vacation can be a sizable chunk of your discretionary budget, and one way to make the most of that money is to spread out the joy of the trip by watching documentaries about where you are going and even reading novels that take place there,” she explains. “Just doing one of those things before, and maybe another one after, can help extend the joy and feeling of your vacation.”

I actually do this too. Starting about ten years ago, before I go anywhere, I try to read at least one book set in that place or by an author who lived there (Gabriel García Márquez before I went to Colombia, Colette before I went to Paris, Roddy Doyle before I went to Ireland). Watching a movie set there counts too. And the halo effect is real — I feel like I’m already on my trip before it starts and then I can “go back” afterward by reading and watching more about it.

4. Be strategic about food and drink.

Everyone I spoke to brought this up: When you’re traveling, eating and drinking get pricey, and no one wants to pay $7 for a rock-hard bagel in the airport. Luckily, there are ways around this.

First of all, always bring nonperishable stuff to eat from home. “I like to bring a Tupperware of snacks,” like protein bars and nuts, says Gatti. She’ll also keep them in her hotel room or wherever she’s staying when she arrives. “It means I’m not spending $15 on subpar airport sandwiches or relenting to the $40 continental breakfast simply because I wake up hungry and need to get something in my stomach.”

If you’re staying at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast, go to town. “In many European countries, breakfast comes included with a hotel stay,” says Thakor. If you’re feeling really shameless, you could sneak some into your aforementioned Tupperware and save it for later. Don’t be shy about doggie bags, either.

If you’re traveling with kids (or you just get hangry on a regular basis), it’s almost always worth it to book a room or an Airbnb with a small kitchen so that you can store, cook, and eat meals without being beholden to restaurants, says Sonya Britt Lutter, a certified financial planner and financial therapist. “As soon as you arrive at your lodging, find the nearest supermarket and stock up on drinks, too.”

Drink free coffee wherever you can get it (most hotels offer it), and make sure to bring a refillable water bottle so you aren’t paying $5 for Evian out of a minibar, says Stephanie Genkin, the founder of My Financial Planner. And finally, do your own research — many tourism boards and hotels get kickbacks for the things they suggest. “Don’t ask the hotel concierge where to go for dinner,” she adds.

5. Look at your credit-card offers.

I’m not one for obsessing over credit-card points or signing up for new offers just to get a few hundred airline miles — if you’re into that, great, but I find it’s often more trouble than it’s worth. Still, if you’re planning to travel, see what your credit card can do for you, says Torabi. The same goes if you work for a big company that may have corporate-travel perks.

“Your credit card or even your employer might have relationships with hotels where you can, because of your affiliation, snag some freebies and discounts,” she says. “My credit card’s website has a travel-booking page that offers perks like free breakfast for two and $100 spending money at the hotel.” Don’t get trapped into booking a more expensive place just because of these bells and whistles, though.

6. Consider shipping your luggage ahead of time.

Rich people do it all the time, according to luxury-travel agent Jaclyn Sienna India, but so can the rest of us. If anything, shipping your stuff to where you’re going — especially if it’s domestic — costs less than most airline baggage fees do. Sure, you have to pack in advance and go to the post office (a voyage in itself, let’s be honest), but it sure beats schlepping your stuff through various airports and running the risk of losing it en route.

7. Save your splurges for the last day.

Okay, this is purely my own tip: I once read that the last day of a vacation is the most important because if you end the trip on a high note, you’ll come back refreshed and remember the whole thing more fondly. So now I always save the best for last. During earlier parts of a trip, we’ll stay in more affordable Airbnbs or with friends and family. Then, for the last night or two, I’ll book a hotel room or fancier Airbnb, find a cool activity, and plan a great dinner. It saves us money overall and still feels like a treat.

It’s summer and the temperature is rising. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

It’s set to be another scorching summer, with extreme and prolonged heat waves forecast across many parts of the United States and Europe.

The stifling conditions could impact millions of travelers and wreak havoc on vacations at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Multiple heat-related deaths among tourists have been reported in Greece and Saudi Arabia in June following extreme temperatures in the Middle East and Aegean regions. Even those who have booked trips in traditionally cooler places may not be spared from the summer heat because of the growing unpredictability of weather patterns.

Here are some tips on how to manage high temperatures when traveling in a heat zone.

Check government guidance

If a heat wave has been forecast at your destination, check government websites before embarking on your trip to give yourself plenty of time to plan and adapt. In extreme temperatures, governments often issue heat advisories warning people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and provide resources to help residents and visitors stay cool. In the United States, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System has a website with information and tools to help prevent illness and death during excessive heat.

Tourist attractions also provide important updates about the conditions at the sights, including any scheduled closures, as a precaution against high temperatures. Some cities grappling with intensive heat, like Los Angeles, Miami, Athens and Melbourne, have assigned chief heat officers to prepare for the heat waves and lead emergency responses.

Avoid peak sun hours

It may seem obvious, but staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time when the sun is at its peak can put many at risk of heat exhaustion. Even if the temperature does not read exceptionally high, excessive dry heat or humidity can make an environment feel hotter than it is.

Travel advisers are adapting itineraries, putting sightseeing in the cooler early morning and evening hours and prebooking tickets for their clients so they do not have to wait in long lines.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

Hiking in the middle of the day is also not advised. On June 5, Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical journalist, died during an afternoon hike in a 104-degree heat wave on the Greek Island of Symi. Four more tourists, including an American man, have recently died in Greece as temperatures have continued to soar.

“I would always recommend going hiking with a certified local guide and under no circumstances alone,” said Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel adviser for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel. “Of course, avoid the hottest hours of the day. Go hiking very early in the morning. And always stick to official hiking trails.”

In some European cities, including Paris and London, air conditioning is not a given, so check if it is available before booking a hotel, restaurant or transportation to ensure you have a cool place to find respite from the scorching heat. Visiting a museum or other indoor sightseeing is another good option, but expect crowds at peak hours.

Stay hydrated and take a siesta

Dehydration and heatstroke are among the most common causes of hospitalization during heat waves and can be prevented by staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption. During meals, consider eating foods like melons, cucumbers and celery as it can help to sustain hydration throughout the day. Always carry a water bottle with you and consider a parasol and portable fan to help keep you cool and shaded when outdoors.

While your itinerary may be packed with activities and tours, the heat can take a toll on stamina, so consider following the European siesta ritual by breaking up your day with a short nap.

“I’m telling my clients to adapt their itineraries and take advantage of the after-lunch siesta and then push their tours to later in the day when it’s cooler,” said Sarah Johnson, who owns Paper Ink & Passports Travel, a luxury travel company based in Pennsylvania. “There’s a reason they’ve been doing it in Spain and Italy for generations. Walking around in the midday heat and waiting in line could really hurt some people.”

Wear cool clothing

The National Weather Service recommends lightweight, loosefitting, light-colored clothing for outdoor use as it reflects heat and sunlight. Hats and sunscreen are also recommended to protect the face and scalp from harmful UV rays.

Just because it’s hot, doesn’t mean it will be dry. Heat waves can bring torrential rainfall, so be prepared.

“My biggest advice to travelers is to be prepared — for hot or cold, dry or wet weather since one never knows,” said Laurel Brunvoll, the owner of Unforgettable Trips, a Maryland-based travel agency. “Pack layers.”

Book a flexible trip

Even after taking all the right precautions, traveling in a heat wave can be miserable, making it worthwhile to make flexible bookings and purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance to have the option to postpone your trip to a cooler time.

Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. Travelers booking through a Sensible partner in the United States will be able to add daily protection that will allow them to claim reimbursement for a booking if the temperature exceeds a threshold that is usually set between 90 and 100 degrees.

“Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder, who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold.