1, 2, 3, Go! Preparing to Travel with a Kids' Club

Sometimes kids' clubs, activities or sports means traveling, and that means a road trip. I know. I've made several trips this season to gymnastics meets with my daughter and we have 1 more trip this summer. Then we start over next season.

Traveling with kids' clubs can be a lot of fun. My daughter invented a game where I have to name the artist and title of any random song she played off my mp3 player. We had a lot of laughs over that one -- mom doesn't know much apparently. She got to see her favorite coach who was away at college during one trip. We've been out to dinner at a couple of cool (and a couple not-so-cool) places, enjoyed room service, met new people, gone swimming in hotel pools, and taken lots and lots of pictures.

On the other hand, the traveling has been stressful. It is tiring, driving long distances and sleeping away from home. My younger son has been antsy during the drive, the events and the hotel stays. My husband hates being home alone and stresses over the costs of gas, food and lodging. My checking account has seen better days.

Overall, though, I'd say it's been well worth it. What can you do to make sure your trip is enjoyable?

• Prepare ahead of time. Pack properly, plan for the drive, arrange lodging. You'll be more relaxed if this is taken care in advance.
  
  
• Sneak some special time with your child. Yes, the trip will probably be very busy, but a quiet evening to chat or explore together can relax you both. And you may be surprised what your child will share with you.
  
  
• Be a tourist. See the sights. Use a break or take an extra day to see something special in the area.
  
  
• You have to eat, so eat something fun. Check with the hotel staff for restaurant recommendations. They'll know some of the local spots that you otherwise wouldn't find. Seafood at the shore, trendy food in a city. It's definitely better than one more burger on the run.
  
  
• Relax! You'll feel better and your child will enjoy his trip or perhaps even compete better if you take some down time. Watch a movie on the TV in your room. Take a quiet swim in the hotel pool. Whatever you enjoy that will give you both time to chill during what will surely be a busy, and exciting adventure.

Learn more about traveling with your child. Check out the All About Parenting Blog Carnival: Road Trips.