The Dos and Don'ts of All-Inclusive Travel with Toddlers

Are you someone that loves to travel?  Just because you have young kids doesn't mean you can't enjoy some time on the road. You may need to be more thoughtful about the type of vacation you want to take with a little one.   Do you want to go to historic locations.? Do you want a little more excitement? There are some instances when all you want is to relax on the shore. All-inclusive resorts could be perfect.

 An all-inclusive getaway allows you to enjoy a wide variety of meals, refreshments, and entertainment for one reasonable price. Does it not seem easy enough? It is, in fact! It's likely that everybody you know on social media is preparing to jet out for a short tropical vacation at one of the numerous accommodations in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, or another southern nation.

Taking an extended family trip to an all-inclusive destination is a wonderful and uncomplicated concept. If this is your first time vacationing with infants, it may also be a great way to entice your family into traveling because there is almost no fuss connected with the preparation of the trip. Your lodging, dining, and recreational pursuits are all included in the price of one ticket.

When planning an all-inclusive trip with kids of any age, bear in mind some important dos and don'ts. Now, let's get going!

Do's: Establish a proper holiday budget

Ensure that you possess a well-defined budget before you start organizing your travel. When you finally unwind, the very last thing you'd like to see is a stressed stack of unpaid bills when you arrive home. After considering any potential trips, look for lodging and airfare that are within your price range. And look into the fine print.  Is your all-inclusive vacation with toddlers including all the dining options on board an all inclusive cruise, or only some of them? You may consider the costs of "add ons" before booking it.

Do some research in advance to find the best deals, and don't be afraid to compare prices across multiple sites. If you plan on visiting a Disney World in Florida, considering DVC resale listings at Disney's Boardwalk Villas, as you can often find great savings while still enjoying top-tier accommodations. Make sure you're getting the best value for your family’s needs, whether it’s on food, entertainment, or special experiences for the kids.

Don'ts: Book during high expensive times.

Everybody enjoys taking their children to the beach over the Christmas season. However, it is relatively expensive. If your toddler (or infant) isn't going to school - consider looking a week or two before Christmas break. Another example is spring vacation which is typically more costly. Therefore, you may try making your reservation a few days after Xmas if you are determined to go on vacation over the festive period. As opposed to staying during the Christmas break, going to the beach around New Year's could save hundreds of dollars. For those looking for a change of scenery and a more budget-friendly option, Salt Lake City hotels offer a cozy and festive holiday experience, away from the coastal premium prices. The city is adorned with lights and you can enjoy various winter activities, making it a wonderful alternative for your holiday getaway.

Do's: Pack stuff mindfully

Beyond clothing and swimwear, there are a few additional items you should include for an all-inclusive trip. Sand containers and shovels, water bottles, a beach-worthy bag or flexible beach basket for carrying items to the shore, a tiny wallet for the evening for stashing your room card and camera, credit cards or video games to play while the kids are asleep, and Ziploc bags (the bigger ones for carrying foul-smelling or soiled clothes home, less extensive snack size cases for taking meals from the buffet) are some items that consistently make our list of necessities. Bring along some of your child's favorite home-cooked treats as well, just in case they get fussy or crave anything comforting.

Packing for a vacation with toddlers can be a bit challenging, but with some careful planning, you can make the process smoother. Here are some tips for packing when traveling with toddlers:

1. Start Early: Begin packing well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Make a checklist of essential items, and start gathering them a few days before your trip.

2. Pack Light: While it's tempting to bring everything your toddler might need, try to pack light. Stick to the essentials, as you can likely purchase items like diapers and wipes at your destination.

3. Clothing: Pack enough clothing for each day of your trip, plus a few extra outfits in case of spills or accidents. Consider the weather at your destination and pack accordingly.

4. Comfort Items: Bring your toddler's favorite comfort items, such as a stuffed animal or blanket, to help them feel secure in a new environment.

5. Snacks and Drinks: Pack a variety of snacks and drinks to keep your toddler satisfied during the journey. Familiar snacks can be a comfort and help distract them during travel.

6. Diapers and Wipes: Ensure you have an ample supply of diapers and wipes. If you're flying, consider packing a few extra in your carry-on in case of delays.

7. First Aid Kit: Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, children's pain reliever, and any necessary prescription medications.

8. Entertainment: Bring toys, books, or electronic devices to keep your toddler entertained during travel. Consider age-appropriate games or movies to make the journey more enjoyable.

9. Travel Gear: If you're flying, bring a stroller, car seat, or any other necessary travel gear. Check with your airline regarding their policies on bringing such items.

10. Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents for your toddler, including passports, identification, and any required health records.

11. Plan for Rest: If your toddler has a regular nap or sleep schedule, plan your activities around it to ensure they get enough rest during the vacation.

12. Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local medical facilities, with you.

Saving money at an all-inclusive resort with a toddler can be achieved with some strategic planning and thoughtful choices. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget:

1. Choose the Right Package:

   • Look for family-friendly all-inclusive resorts that offer special packages for toddlers. Some resorts may have discounted rates or free stays for children.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons:

   • Consider traveling during off-peak seasons when prices are generally lower. This can also mean fewer crowds, making it a more enjoyable experience for you and your toddler.

3. Take Advantage of Kids' Clubs:

   • Many all-inclusive resorts have kids' clubs with supervised activities. Utilize these services to give yourself some free time while ensuring your toddler is entertained in a safe environment.

4. Pack Snacks:

   • Bring some snacks for your toddler to avoid spending extra money on snacks at the resort. Pack familiar and favorite snacks to ensure your child is satisfied.

5. Bring Your Own Gear:

   • If possible, bring your own beach toys, floaties, and other toddler essentials. Purchasing these items at the resort can be more expensive.

6. Explore Free Activities:

   • Check the resort's activity schedule for free or included activities. Many resorts offer complimentary entertainment, such as beach games, pool activities, and evening shows.

7. Limit Specialty Dining:

   • While all-inclusive resorts often include meals, some may have specialty restaurants that come with an additional cost. Limit dining at these establishments to save money.

8. Pack Essentials:

   • Pack essential items such as sunscreen, diapers, and other toiletries to avoid buying them at inflated prices at the resort.

9. Choose Inclusive Excursions:

   • If you plan to explore beyond the resort, opt for all-inclusive excursions that include transportation, meals, and activities. This can be more cost-effective than arranging activities individually.

10. Stay Hydrated:

    • Ensure your toddler stays hydrated by bringing refillable water bottles. Some resorts charge extra for bottled water, so having your own can save money.

11. Research Discounts and Promotions:

    • Look for discounts or promotions when booking your all-inclusive resort. Some resorts may offer special deals for families, especially during certain times of the year.

12. Budget for Extras:

    • Set a budget for extra expenses, such as souvenirs or optional activities. This can help you avoid overspending during your stay.

By planning ahead and making informed choices, you can enjoy the convenience of an all-inclusive resort while staying within your budget when traveling with a toddler.

Remember that flexibility is key when traveling with toddlers. Be prepared for unexpected situations, and try to go with the flow. Happy travels!

 Despite these top do's and don'ts, there are a few things you should consider for an all-inclusive journey with toddlers.