Parenting advice for stress-free family vacations

Going on a family trip is something most people look forward to all year, but it can be an organizational nightmare. Remembering everything from sunscreen to cuddly toys and managing tired or over-excited kids sometimes feels like it requires military precision.

However, help is at hand in the form of Michelle Aycock, a psychotherapist who has offered the Savannah Morning News her parenting advice for a stress-free vacation.

Firstly, as children always seem to need to go to the bathroom at the most awkward of times, she recommends that mothers and fathers plan a route that includes regular rest stops at towns and attractions along the way.

When it comes to packing, Ms Aycock suggests that parents pick out a separate outfit for every day of the holiday for their kids, to avoid having to rummage through the suitcase for matching items.

Finally, taking food and drinks in the car means less stops have to be made – although she reminds moms and dads to always remember wet wipes and paper towels in case of any spillages.

This advice applies whether families are headed to somewhere in the US or further afield, but if they are going abroad this summer parents should also ensure that their children are fully covered by travel insurance and have any relevant jabs.