Traveling with your grandchildren allows you to connect with them on a deeper level. However, as a grandparent, you should have a few essential items on hand to make the trip go as well as possible. You may replace combs and toothbrushes, but you can’t change important documents like passports or consent to treatment without the necessary paperwork. We’re providing our suggestions for traveling with your grandchildren so you can worry less and have more fun! Keep reading for the best tips and tricks on traveling with grandkids.
Above All, Have a Good Time
When things go wrong, and they will if we’re being completely honest, make sure you handle the situation as calmly as possible. When calamity occurs, the best vacation stories emerge. Additionally, this will show your grandchildren how to deal with unpleasant situations as they come in life. Plan or take road trip games and activities to play along the way, taste new restaurants, go on walks in the parks, and ride the attractions. Make the most of your trip, no matter what it is. Let your hair down and keep in mind that they’ll only be this age once, and memories will last a lifetime!
Compile a List of Travel Documents for Your Grandchildren
You’ll need your grandkids’ health insurance cards as well as a ‘permission for treatment’ form for each of them. Are you looking for a unique cultural experience outside of the country? Their passports and a letter from their parents authorizing you to transport kids across foreign boundaries are required. You will need to prepare a document with all of the necessary information, as well as a synopsis of your itinerary. You may also require a copy of each child’s immunization records, depending on where you’re going.
Organizing the Trip with Your Grandkids
Consider organizing the trip with your grandchildren rather than for them. Not only will they love having a say about the itinerary, but you’ll also be teaching them a valuable lesson in how to arrange a memorable trip. Allow your grandkids to help you choose the excursions if you’ve already booked a cruise or tour.
Permissions Letter
Most grandparents will never have to display or use this, but it’s a good thing to have on hand just in case. You can find templates for these types of letters online, or you can make your own using the checklist below. Your Permissions Letter should include the following information:
- Notary’s name and notarized date
- Parents’ contact information, including full names, addresses, and phone numbers
- Signatures of both parents, with the date signed
- A travel period, from departure to return, plus a few extra days in case plans change.
- Grandparents’ names
- Full names and dates of birth of the children
- Permission from the parents for the youngster to travel with grandparents
- The parents’ names