*This is a collaborative post

Planning a big vacation or trip with the family? Perhaps it’s the first time that you’ve ever decided or been able to bring the kids with you. You had better believe that they add a lot of fussing and stressing to the equation. You can help minimise it to some degree, however, by making sure that they’re ready for the trip ahead.

Get them excited for it
You might find your kid is a little anxious or maybe just ambivalent about the upcoming trip because it’s a new experience. If that’s the case, one of the best ways to get them excited is to come up with a to-do list for when you get there. By putting together an itinerary, you can explore ideas with them that can get them amped up for the trip and make sure that it’s going to happen by setting time aside for it.

Let them visualise the trip
Going to a brand new place and staying there for days on end with no possibility of going home is a big deal for a child, even if it’s a relatively short trip. As such, it’s a good idea to help them better envision where you’re going and where you’re going to be staying. Looking at photos and videos of the destination can help acclimate them to it ahead of time and, better yet, grow that excitement further.

Don’t forget the essentials
If your child hasn’t been on holiday before, then it’s very likely that they’re not going to have all of the essentials they need to safely enjoy the trip. Be sure they get climate-appropriate clothing, whether you’re planning to hike with them, sunbathe, ski, or otherwise. A travel bag is going to be pretty essential, as well. Basically, look at everything you’re packing for yourself and ask if your child has the equivalent.

Help comfort them on the trip
If you’re flying, then you had better be prepared for the fact that your child might be nervous or even fearful about it. You can help manage those concerns by bringing a few comfort items with you. A familiar toy can help them settle on the flight, and it’s a good idea to load your smartphone or tablet with apps or shows that can keep them entertained throughout the trip.

Inform them about what’s going to happen at the airport
The process of going through check-in and security at the airport is another potentially anxious experience for a lot of children. Security and screening, especially, can feel to a child-like they have done something wrong, with as much scrutiny as it puts them under. Take the time to explain the process to them, you might be able to find more information about the step-by-step by looking at the airport’s website .

With the right preparations, you can’t exactly eliminate all of the stresses of travelling with kids, but you can keep it manageable and ensure that you and the whole family are able to enjoy your holidays with one another.