Where in the World?!

I’ve recently traveled as a family to Mexico and want to share with you what I have learned so that you may create only the best in family memories!

The Riviera Maya region of Mexico – a popular destination for families, young adults, couples, and everything in between! With many airlines offering direct flights to Cancun from major cities, this destination is quick and easy to travel to; resorts span the coastline making the possibilities endless and drivable from the airport.

Sometimes, the simplest moments hold the deepest wisdom. Let your thoughts settle, and clarity will find you. Use this quote space to share something inspirational or reflective, perfectly aligned with the theme of your article.

What do you really need?

This is your reminder that you have booked an all-inclusive, resort-style vacation so that you do not need to pack up the whole house.

So leave behind the fancy kids towels, the big and bulky soaps and shampoos, and the pillows. Do not overthink the toy collection, the clothing, or the excessive snacks because the reality is, your kids can and will survive on fries, noodles and bananas.

– Pack the passports (+ extra copies), the travel Insurance, and the chargers.
– Pack the toothbrushes, the medication, the thermometer and bug repellent.
– Pack the diapers, the wipes the dry bags and the hand sanitizer.
– Pack the sun hats, the swimwear, the water shoes and lightweight clothing.

Sun Protection Essentials for Kids

Mineral sunscreen
Rash guards
UV hats
After-sun care

Some smart hacks

An “extra” stroller/attachment, carrier, or wagon – anything for that second child who is bound to decide they want to sit or be carried just like the younger sibling! Silly me brought one stroller because I had one perfectly capable walking toddler and one baby who needed support; well, of course the toddler always wanted to use it at the same time as baby.

Clothes pins are practical for drying clothes on the rack that is often found on resort balconies, but it has many secret uses: clip the curtains together or with garbage bags to make the room darker for naps.

Painter’s tape can be practical for making blackout curtains or labelling belongings. However, it can also be very useful for entertaining young minds: build a road for little cars in the room, cover outlets from curious fingers, or let babies pull them.

Garbage bags are practical for wet and dirty clothes, however they can also be useful for creating a dark, napping space in the room or stroller.

A portable sound machine is a lifesaver when travelling with nap-aged children so they can nap on-the-go or create a calm space in the room.

The Entertainment

What do you pack for entertainment to create a nice balance between exploring new territory and a little taste of home?

At three, our toddler is beginning to show interest in board games – a moment I have waited so long for! Uno and Skip-bo are great compact card games that have been a hit for our family. We also packed Racoon Rumpus, rated for 3+ but safe for babies to be around.

Magnet Tiles have quickly become a highly rated, must-have toy of the decade. These blocks are safe for all ages, fun and rather versatile (do not forget they are practical magnets) to bring along on a trip. For added fun, they can be stuck to fridges, tables, balconies, or countless other things you may find along your journey.

Stacking cups have many uses for baby and toddler alike: bathing cups, sand toys, stacking toys or collecting nature’s treasures, just to name a few.

The classic pail and shovel combo got the most use out of everything we packed! Used for digging, sand castles, water play at the pool or pads, and even for collecting treasures or carrying the sunblock!

Don’t pack the kitchen sink!

Thank you for reading! I hope this guide helps you and your family make memories on a beautiful, beach vacation – without the headaches or tears! Don’t forget to have a special, reusable cup (my favourite being a Bubba!) for everyone to enjoy no-spill drinks in the pool!

Cheers!


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