As the vacation season quickly approaches, airports, highways and train stations will be filled with the hustle and bustle of families on their way to Grandma’s house for their annual vacation. But, more often than not, we arrive exhausted and worn out. Keeping track of the luggage, entertaining the kids and making sure we get to our final destination on time are just a few of the challenges we meet before enjoying the festivities. We all want to arrive looking and feeling as good as we did when we left the house and with a little extra planning this may actually be possible! Here a few not so obvious tips…

• Make sure you get enough sleep the night before. Many moms are up late finishing laundry, packing and making sure everyone is ready for the next day. The journey ahead will be so much easier if you all start out feeling rested instead of exhausted.
  
• Plan to leave the house at least 30 minutes earlier than you need to. This may seem like common sense, but we all know that toddlers are prone to misplacing their favorite blankie at the very last minute!
  
• While we’re taking about blankie – pack an extra one for emergencies!
  
• Double check that the sippy cups are actually spill-proof! This may also seem like a no-brainer but from experience – a wet purse is not the best way to start a long trip!
  
• Remember to keep a change of clothes (for each child) handy – this is necessary for diaper malfunctions and that sippy cup that is certain to spill!
  
• Pack extra batteries in your hand luggage. Delays due to traffic or delayed flights and trains are much easier to handle when the kids are occupied playing with their Game Boy or Leap Pad.
  
• Pack the kids favorite snacks. Although nutrition is still important while traveling - the sound of your child refusing to eat his apple slices will not make your trip easy!
  
• If traveling by plane, book the bulk head seats in advance. These seats are usually held for passengers with small children. The additional leg room will make the flight so much more comfortable.
  
• Remember that airport security requirements are constantly changing. Make sure that the kid’s shoes and socks are easy to get on and off as they will probably need to be removed while passing through the security gate. Strollers may also need to be emptied and folded up and babies taken out of baby carriers and slings. (by the way – baby carriers and slings are great while traveling as they allow you to be hands-free and keep baby safe and happy).
  
• Finally, try to persuade each child to use the bathroom before getting in the car or boarding the plane! Remember that the changing table found inside airplane bathrooms is small, difficult to use and often not clean. Pack a travel sized changing pad as most changing tables in public restrooms do not have one.
  

By implementing just a few of these tips, you should arrive looking and feeling great. You’ll all be ready to relax and enjoy your vacation!

Julie Zarchi is a mother of 2 and frequent trans atlantic traveller.  These tips have been compiled from her firt hand experience.  To find additional articles, tips and essentials for busy moms, visit http://www.supermomz.com.