My husband and I have travelled extensively during the Christmas season, many of the trips were from London to New Zealand on a horrid 24-hour flight (2-hour stopover in between). Travelling with children at Christmas is likening a bird to a feather if you compare it to travelling alone. It ain’t easy, I’m not going to lie. Especially if you are a working parent, and the joy of the Christmas chaos is nipping at your feet and begging you to topple over. But don’t worry, you are not the only one who feels overwhelmed at this moment. Christmas can do that. The awful sense of having too much on one’s plate- which really is a picture of Christmas in the literal sense. I do love this season though, and try to embrace it, warts and all. The trick is to stay on top of the wave, ride it and try to have fun.

Christmas vacations are rising in popularity. Often it is to get away from the hoards on Christmas Day. For some, the vacation is the actual Christmas present- an experience rather than the traditional gift under the tree. Other people are just desperate for a change. But the preparations before you set off can send anyone to tears. If you are about to set off on your own Christmas adventures together here a few practical tips to help you and you’re little elves get off to a good start.

Write a list and check it twice

I’m not a prolific list maker but I definitely need to be. Making a list of all the things which need to be packed will be your lifesaver in those highly emotional last moments of trying to get the kids out the door while also clearing toys, changing diapers, packing the car, feeding the hungry lions and making sure all household chores and maintenance are done with your six other arms. I have left the house far too many times to only return 5 minutes later because something has been forgotten. Making that list and ticking things off, before that last crazy hour of departure can help make a smooth departure.

No gift wrapping

Unless you are travelling on Christmas Eve, or you are driven and have ample room in your boot take unwrapped gifts and wrap them at your destination. Especially if you are flying gifts may be required to be unwrapped at security or get a little squished in your suitcase. All those hours of wrapping gifts beautifully may be eradicated if you reach your destination and retrieve crumpled, sad looking gifts from your luggage. Name tags can also be dislodged during travel (whose gift is for whom!?). Unfortunately, this comes from a sad true story. You may also want to take a pair of scissors, tape and paper with you.

Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree

It may sound silly but if you are staying in a hotel over Christmas and not visiting a family or friends home on Christmas Day you may want to take a miniature Christmas tree with you, and/or perhaps some decorations. Depending on your location you could also buy them while on vacation – but do make sure purchasing Christmas items is possible before travelling if you are going to a remote location. I’ll never forget travelling to a small town in Turkey during Easter. I was looking forward to spending the time visiting a small church along the way and purchasing a few unique Easter eggs while there. Oh, how wrong and presumptuous I was. You would be lucky to hear a ‘Merry Christmas’ let alone buy anything Festive from many Eastern Countries, so if travelling afar do investigate prior to travelling.

Fill That Stocking

You may want to take your children’s stockings with you, and hang them up where you are staying while on vacation. You may also want to take removable hooks to hang them from, without leaving a mark on the wall. Don’t forget the presents and treats to fill them on Christmas Eve!

Give Me Some Figgy Pudding

If you are travelling somewhere new for the first time do make sure you book the Christmas lunch or dinner if you are planning on eating out. It isn’t unusual for restaurants to book out on Christmas Day, especially now that it is more popular to travel during this season. Research a few of the best restaurants in the area, and make sure they will cater well to children, and any dietary requirements your family may have. If there is a traditional dish you have at Christmas, even if you are spending the time with extended family or friends, do consider taking it, or the ingredients to prepare on your travels if you know you won’t be able to purchase the items while you are away.

It’s a Family Tradition

As my children grow I seem to become more enthusiastic about making and keeping traditions during special occasions. Even while on holiday some of the traditions you may already have can be kept. If the place you are staying has a kitchenette baking can still be done, even if it is something that is pre-made and just needs to be heated. Crafts can still be created – paper, pens and tape are fortunately very easy to pack without being too much of a nuisance. Mini speakers can also be packed fairly easily if you wanted to play festive music while away. That special Christmas book or DVD which can be played on the laptop can be packed- whatever traditions you may have they definitely do not need to be left at home. Even the elf on the shelf can join your vacation.

Santa Baby

Prepare your children for the holiday by speaking regularly about it, how you will get there, and what you will do while away. Children don’t adjust to change as readily as adults do. There may also be many questions about Santa and his navigation skills, with the new location of your family on Christmas Day. You may want to write a little note to Santa with your new address, your child can post it or leave on his pillow before you go.

Silent Night

If you have a baby and you are travelling prepare for the unexpected. If you are driving long distance plan for more stops along the way. Although being away on vacation at Christmas is often much more relaxing than entertaining and preparing food for 50 of your family members, don’t envision a foolproof time with younger children. Often sleeping in a new environment can unsettle the little ones. Make sure you have their favourite toy or cuddly and keep to any bedtime routine you have as much as possible before the trip.

Eat Chocolate

No explanation needed.