Introduction
Adjusting to doing it all with kids can be quite a shock to the system if you’re used to living in luxury, especially when it comes to traveling. Does everything have to change, or can you still indulge in the opulent hotels and Michelin-starred meals you once did? And how in the world are you going to pack all of their necessities, including their toys, without spending a fortune on extra luggage?
In the early years, vacationing or taking a quick trip abroad often takes a backseat to weekends spent with family and maybe even the occasional staycation for new parents. But if the thought of giving up your opulent Caribbean island vacations and first-class travel makes you sick to your stomach, you might be wondering if it’s possible to combine the best of both worlds.
The good news is that some of the world’s most luxurious hotels now offer services to parents who want to unwind and enjoy themselves without leaving their children at home. As a result, traveling as a family can be done with little stress while also ensuring that everyone has a great time. Here are the main things you can do to ensure that your five-star trip with kids is a success.
Tips on How to Luxury Travel with the Whole Family
1. Pack your child’s suitcase
It can be a challenging task to pack your child’s suitcase, but just like you, it’s important to make sure they have the appropriate clothing for every event they attend. You should get a head start on planning their holiday wardrobe so that you can make sure they are prepared for any situation that may arise and that they continue to look appropriate in terms of fashion while you are away from home.
During those long, hot days at the beach, make sure to bring essentials such as child-friendly sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of toys and games to keep your children entertained. Don’t forget to select their footwear with care as well – they’ll need sandals or flip-flops for the beach, and a pair of stylish trainers for any outdoor activities they participate in.
2. Plan for the plane
When you become a parent, it doesn’t mean you have to give up long-distance travel until your children are older, but it does mean that you need to find ways to keep them entertained on the airplane to ensure a smooth ride for everyone. Be sure to bring along some of their favorite toys and games, and keep in mind that even if you’re trying to keep younger children away from screens, this is one situation in which you’ll be glad you brought along a tablet to distract them from the situation.
However, an even more effective tactic would be to put them to sleep for the entirety of the flight. Therefore, you should bring a blanket and a comforter with you, and try your best to put them to sleep as soon as the plane has taken off. If you can, book a flight at night because this will make the process easier. Additionally, make sure they fly first class so they can be kept away from the glare of other people’s screens and the lights from their reading materials.
3. Consider using a travel company
It takes a lot of work to plan a trip, and the amount of work required increases dramatically when children are included in the plans. For some parents, the ability to plan everything down to the smallest detail comes naturally, while for others it’s a source of stress. Utilizing the services of a travel agency can help ease the burden of coordinating everything, freeing up time for the myriad of other things that families need to do in the lead-up to a trip.
4. Make use of priority boarding with little ones
When flying with young children, most airlines will let parents board the plane before other passengers (typically after first-class passengers and elite frequent fliers). This provides families with the opportunity to settle in before the general boarding process, which can be hectic at times.
5. Have someone else deal with your bags
Some of the most basic comforts can provide the greatest sense of luxury. Have someone else take care of your luggage if you want to get a taste of what it’s like to travel from the perspective of the other half of the population.
Many hotels offer assistance with your luggage. You need only inquire about it. When you check in, make sure to stop at the front desk and inquire as to whether or not someone is available to assist you in carrying your bags up to your room. Your arrival will be greeted with a touch of extra special treatment, which will continue throughout your stay.
6. Gate-check car seats and strollers for free
Instead of checking your stroller (or car seat, if you choose to travel with one), keep it with you so you can wheel your tired children around the airport. This also applies if you decide to travel with a car seat. After that, there is no cost associated with checking it at the gate before boarding the airplane. You can retrieve it before leaving the area surrounding the plane when you land.
7. Consider staying in a recently opened luxury hotel
You might be able to find a luxury hotel at a more reasonable price if you look around, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap enough to fit into the budget your family has set aside for vacations. When they are well established, some luxury hotels are unattainable for most people, but what about when they are first opening their doors?
Hotels that have recently been built or renovated are typically more open to the idea of offering rooms at steeply discounted rates. It’s even possible that some will let you negotiate your prices. The best way to have a truly luxurious experience without paying the luxury price tag is to do it this way.
8. Don’t be afraid to ask for hotel upgrades
Improvements to your hotel room can have a significant influence on how much you enjoy your stay there. It’s always nice to be treated like the valuable customer that you are, whether it’s through the provision of additional pillows or free meals in the hotel restaurant.
A hotel room upgrade can be obtained in a variety of different ways. The following are some pointers that, if followed, will make it easier for you to obtain free stuff here and there:
- Make sure to check in early and inquire about any available room upgrades.
- Before you check-in, you should sign up for the hotel’s loyalty program.
- Mention the fact that you write reviews to receive preferential treatment.
- Inquire about any available upgrades as well as any current deals that you could take advantage of.
9. Choose the right destination
When it comes to planning a luxury vacation, the first step that should be prioritized is selecting a location that will live up to the lofty standards you have set for yourself. In contrast to other types of vacations, such as those that may put more of an emphasis on spending time with family or engaging in various tourist activities, a luxury vacation calls for something more extraordinary. To begin, it is a good idea to think about the locations you have always wanted to visit and determine which of those locations can provide you with the kind of luxurious experience you have always imagined.
For instance, let’s say that you have always envisioned yourself going on a cruise down the Amazon River. Nevertheless, if we compare it to places like Paris, Bora Bora, Mykonos, or Abu Dhabi, you might find that there are fewer opportunities for luxurious accommodations and activities there. If you follow your instincts rather than the reviews you read online, you never know when you might stumble upon a hidden gem in the most unlikely of places.
10. Time your trip well
When you take your luxury vacation can have a significant impact on both the total cost and the overall experience you have. Think about going on vacation during the shoulder seasons or off-peak times of the year, when prices are typically more affordable and there are fewer people at popular destinations. Keep an eye out for luxurious hotels and resorts that offer special deals, discounted rates, and vacation packages during specific times of the year. If you are willing to be flexible with your travel dates, you will be able to enjoy a more peaceful and private experience while saving money on the cost of your accommodations.
11. Plan activities in advance
Plan all of your excursions and experiences so that you can get the most out of your luxurious vacation. Conduct research and make reservations for one-of-a-kind experiences, such as private tours, culinary adventures, spa treatments, or yacht excursions, to secure limited reservations and possibly save money on bundled packages. Whether you are going on a trip with your whole family or just the two of you, you should think about hiring a reputable luxury travel advisor who has experience in the area you want to visit to create experiences that are unique to you and are catered to your particular passions.
12. Indulge in fine dining
A gastronomic experience is essential to any luxury vacation and should not be skipped. Do some research on acclaimed restaurants that are well-known for the exceptional culinary delights they offer, and make reservations there. Discover the local food scene, indulge in the produce of the season, and taste some of the best wines. If you want to get the most out of your dining experiences, you should think about ordering tasting menus, which can save you money while providing you with a greater variety of dishes to sample. Guests who are feeling particularly daring have the option of going for the omakase experience, which consists of the chef serving a multi-course meal of his choosing.
13. Try to blend in
When you are traveling to places that are unfamiliar to you, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to proceed with caution. This is of the utmost importance if you are a solo traveler or if you are going to a location that has a reputation for having a high rate of crime or other safety concerns.
Always be aware of your immediate surroundings, and make an effort to assimilate with the people and customs of the area as much as you can. It is best not to wear expensive jewelry or carry large amounts of cash, and you should remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
14. Consider driving
If you and your family are going on a trip that will require a significant amount of driving, you should look into the possibility of shipping your car to the location where you will be staying. Your ability to come and go at will, as well as to stop wherever and whenever you choose, will be made possible as a result of this freedom.
When you have your own vehicle with you, you have the option of driving to some of the best places to visit, which may be difficult to find or not included in the typical travel packages.
15. Consider private tours
You might want to look into hiring a private tour guide or driver to assist you in navigating your location and provide you with an insider’s perspective on the culture of the area.
You can avoid crowds and tourist traps by hiring a private guide or driver, who can also give you individualized recommendations and suggestions for things to see and do.
They can also help you feel more secure and confident when traveling to a new place, and they can provide insightful information and helpful tips for making the most of your luxury vacation.
Conclusion
Finally, with careful planning and consideration, embarking on a luxury family travel experience can be a rewarding endeavor. Prioritizing open communication, thoughtful organization, and the well-being of all family members will help to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable journey. Families can create lasting memories while indulging in the finer aspects of travel by setting clear expectations, selecting appropriate accommodations and activities, and fostering quality time together. Remember that flexibility and adaptability are essential for accommodating everyone’s needs and preferences. Finally, luxury family travel is an opportunity to strengthen bonds, broaden horizons, and enjoy the joy of discovering new places as a united and cherished family unit.