I recently decided to retire my old pack. It was a tough decision to make over the years it has been my solid companion while on the road, and has spent many years being tossed around like a rag doll. But, after years of rigorous torture and adventures. It was time to put the old man into retirement to live out the remanding years as vacation luggage. It took me a while to find that pack when I first started in the travel world, and I knew it would be tough to find a replacement. After days of searching different stores and trying different packs on. I finally stumbled on the right one…the REI Flash 65!! The pack fits really nice and snug to your back while allowing good movement, but also keeping it from killing your back while hiking. The foam padding and hip belt around the hips gives you a nice fit for all day comfort. AFter taking it out for a test drive over the weekend, it was weird having a new pack. But also really nice to have a little bit more comfort, since the old one had been worn down. It has a nice ventilated mesh backing to allow for good airflow, so your not sweating to much on those hikes through the desert dunes. You can even purchase a separate reservoir to use with the compatible tube system to keep yourself hydrated. I opted it for the extra purchase, just for those long hikes!
Out in about this pack was amazing, light weight, comfortable fit, and easy access to supplies. It can also handle a substantial amount of supplies if needed. Being able to hold 65 liters over my last pack which held 44 liters. The pack is a great fit for new or experienced hikers.
0 Comments
Yeti has become a really popular brand kind of out of know where the last year. Offering a lot for not just than the average cooler enthusiast. They have been known over the years, for providing great products. And the Hopper 30 is nothing less than what the brand stands for... excellence.
Built for not just hunters, but for recreational use as well. Using a high quality DryHide shell to protect your storage from the elements, and a ColdCell insulation to keep those nice fresh caught fish cold. I personally use this cooler for camping and family trips. You can fit a lot of food in that cooler too! We also use it to carry baby formula and bottle storage for our son.
It can keep things cool for a very long time! After leaving the cooler out over the weekend on a camping trip, it kept the ice and things cool for pretty much the whole weekend. Where with a normal cooler the ice would have melted completely the first day, and would have to keep buying more bags. Over all this is a great product for hunters, fisherman, campers, and families everywhere! Worth the money that you spend on it, it will be well worth it. Recently I got offered an opportunity to speak in front of a class full of students eagerly ready to learn about long term travel. As I relish in this great opportunity. I start to feel a little anxious and nervous. Not because I have to speak in front a room full of people. My wife and son will be coming with for support. But, the reason for all the nerves is because this will be the first time we've taken him on a plane. The funny thing is i've had moments like these, right before I did some crazy adrenaline fueled stunt. But that was less nerve racking than this. I don't think any thing could prepare for thought of traveling with a 4 month old. I know he will do just fine, he is at that perfect stage to introduce to the life of travel. Just the other day we took a walk around the neighborhood, and as he was laying in his stroller. He stared with such curiosity at the world around him. I looked into his big blue eyes and only wandered what he thought of this world. Its funny getting ready for trips use to be so easy. Pack a few clothes, grab my toothbrush, my sleeping bag and I was ready to go! Now, just to go to the store makes an extra hour of prep to get everything and everyone ready. So, to the web I went searching for knowledge to help ease my racing mind. Here is my list on how to prep and pack for trip with you baby! PLANNING THE FIRST TRIP When booking the flight out, its best to book one that is right around the babies nap/sleep schedule. This vital not only to keep them on a schedule still, but to help keep them calm and happy during the flight. Which will be nice for you as the parent, giving you time to rest or enjoy the in-flight movie. If you end up booking a red eye flight, then your best bet is to keep the baby up as long as possible. Until you are aboard the plane and it has taken off. By then the little one should be ready to crash, and should sleep the whole way. This should also help with jet lag and any time zone transitions. FORMULA Make sure to pack what you need, and then extra just incase. The flight might get delayed or have to stay in the air for a longer time due to weather. This way your better safe than sorry BASSINET This something i didn't know some airlines had, was a bassinet! It sets nestled securely to the front. That way if your child is sleeping you can place them in that to allow more comfort for them and you. Now, this go quick so be sure to snag one as soon as possible! TAKE OFF AND LANDING Be sure to remember that babies are more subseptable to altitude than we are. So, try to give them a pacifier or nurse them right before takeoff and right before landing. Preferable right before the altitude changes, this will help there little ears pop. (Pro tip: Use barf bags as an easy disposal for diapers and wipes.) KEEPING A CALM OUTLOOK! When flying we all know those people with the babies on the plane. Always kicking and screaming. Now, the shoe is on the other foot and where the ones traveling with the baby on the plane. But, we are the ones who will have to keep our calm during any situations. Babies will feed off your energy and tension. So, you keeping calm during whatever anyone says. You will ultimately be a better person over all. PACKING AND GETTING YOUR BABY READY TO GO One thing that I didn't know you could do, is rent items. It will save you time, money, and stress. I might look into that the next time, it would be nice to just have everything there when you land. If you want to bring your stroller, its kind of a big debate. Some people say yes, others say no. I say it's up to you to make the decision, whatever you feel up to. Most airlines will gate-check them for free, and be warned that will not treat the stroller nicely. Pack two blankets so you can wrap your little one up. It gets pretty chilly on a plane as we all know. And you wanna pack two just in case they spit up on one. It's gonna happen! DIAPER BAG LIST Here are some definite haves when it comes to packing your diaper bag: Plastic Ziplock Bags: For dirty clothes, dirty diapers, keep pacifiers clean, wrangle baby socks. Snacks: For mom and dad Diapers: Usually one diaper for every hour on the flight, and maybe a couple extras for those poop emergencies. Baby Wipes: This one is pretty obvious one. Clothing: Two pairs of pants, two pairs of onesies, three short sleeve onesies, one pair of shorts, and a pair of socks. Baby Sunscreen When it comes down to it, don't be to nervous. Your going to great and so will your child. So, go and get ready for your trip and have a blast! I love gadgets!! From big and small to the ones that are just down right crazy!! Here is my list of some of the coolest travel items, and a few strange ones as well! Pocket Sized Washing Machine This cool little gadget washes your clothes with less than 3 liters of water, throw in some ditergent/soap and you will be smelling fresh as a daisy in no time. Believe, me I know we have all at some point on the road have washed there clothes in the sink of a bathroom hostel. This will help elevate that a little! The Scrubba Wash Bag is equipped with a flexible wash board, made of lightweight material, and is pocket size. So, it won't take up to much space in your pack. North Faces Avalanche Survival Backpack If your going climbing, skiing , or planning to travel in the mountains of Tibet. Than this is the perfect backpack for you! In case of an avalanche the backpack can deploy two inflatable air bags out of the sides. Both are filled with nitrogen gas and will help you stay above the snow for rescuers to find you. The survival rate increases to 95% when you wear this, so go buy one if you plan on going in the snow! The Transparent Inflatable Tent Not really sure of the practical everyday camper use of this would be. So, it kind of falls under the counter of strange. It is made of a highly durable fabric, comes with a repair fabric and blower. The premise is if you love to star gaze than having this is perfect, and it can fit a small family inside! Hi-Tech Foot Warmers This things will take your feet comfort to a whole another level! ThermaCell heated insoles will keep your piggies nice and toasty as you trek through the cold. Made from a water resistant fabric and thermostat driven control system they will never die on you. Even comes with a remote so you can control how warm your feet get! Water Bottle Purifier Any traveler worth there salt will tell you that having a water purifier will save your life in multiple ways! Health concerns in some places take drastic tolls on travelers who are not prepared to deal with the local resources. Some places do not have clean drinking water so having this bottle that has a built in purifier will definitely make things easier on your stomach! Crazy Suit Case Stickers These things are more liable to get you detained by airport security than be funny. The design of most of them give you the illusion that you have more in your suitcase than you want to divulge. So, don't be surprised when customs comes a knocking! Solar Power Inflatable Light This is actual a pretty cool little item. The LuminAID is a small waterproof, inflatable baggy that has small LED's inside. Once charged by the power of the son it will last up to 16 hours! Talk about not having to be afraid of the dark any more! I think my favorite is the pocket sized washer, I pretty sure that will be in my next pack. Believe me when I say this, there were a lot weirder travel items out their than I thought.
When I was in middle school I got really heavy into anime and the Japanese culture. And when I mean heavy, I mean I was obsessed with everything about Japan! I took Japanese in high-school for two years, I had a tripped planned before I graduated! Now, Japan is a little expensive to travel to, I will give you that. So, you will have to plan your budget accordingly (Reference post labeled How to Travel on a Budget for some pro tips). Me I lucked out, I have a family relative who is stationed over there. So, I employed my rookie couch surfing skills to the test!
I stayed roughly 2 months, but United State citizens can stay up to an access of ninety days with out a visa. There is a list of countries that are exempt and those that have restrictions per say. I'll throw a link at the bottom of this post for reference.
Now in the two months that I was their, I packed in a lot! And there is a lot to do! But, one of the great things about Japan, is the bullet train! As well as it is never late! So, you can get a lot of places relatively quick that way you can do as much as you want. Don't over do it, but if you do get tired and need to relax I recommend hitting up a local hot springs!! When the Japanese go on vacation that where they head. There are literally thousands of them located all over Japan in, hotels, ryokan, resorts and spas. I will warn you though familiarize yourself with the rules on onsen manners before you visit one. Other wise you might embarrass yourself! (Link with Onsen Manners at the bottom, just trust me)
Pro Tip: Get a JR Pass for the bullet train. Train tickets are ridiculously expensive for one way fares! The pass will give you unlimited train travel, at the best cost saving to you're budget! There are a few things we need to go over before I give you the low down on the top spots to visit! Now, I said above that you can go to a hot spring in a Ryokan. I am sure your wandering what is that? Well a Ryokan is a traditional Japanese Inn, something that has been around since the Edo-era of Japan. They haven't really changed all that much either, it's kind of like you hopped in to the delorean and punched to 88mph! It is pretty awesome though, it is like living in the golden age of the samurai. All the workers wear kimonos, and you have to wear a yukata(a more simpler version of a kimono), pictured below. It is an experience that you need to see for yourself. Another really big thing in Japan, and you better be prepared to bust out that singing voice you've been practicing in the shower. Because, they love karaoke!! And I mean love it! They have dedicated clubs just for it, where they take you and a group of friends into a room. Put a mic on the table and turn the machine on! Now, after the first song it becomes a completely blast. Half the time no one knows the lyrics, or they have had to much sake. Be prepared for the eventuality of going to one, because I went three different times with the friends I met over there! If you walk into a cafe you will be met with a bit of a shock! Most internet cafes have a large stock pile of manga in them. So, consequently they have been renamed Manga Cafe's! Most places even provide free drinks, video games, light food, and even showers. Why, you would need a shower still evades me to this day. I know in the states were kind of limited to the choices we have for fast food joints. I am also certain a lot of you are tired of eating them. Well, don't do that in Japan... I repeat don't do that in Japan! They probably have the most unique fast food places. Even, McDonald's is pretty awesome. I'm not sure if any of you have seen the meme with the Goku french fry box or not. But, here it is! They even have a few of their own that should be worth a go.
Last but not least on my list oh so glorious things. Is ramen shops! Now, don't get discouraged if you are tired of eating ramen from you're college days, I know I was. This is a different kind of ramen than we our use too. Also, pretty much all of them look like the ramen shop out of Naruto, it's pretty awesome! And you will have the best ramen of your life...Guaranteed!!
Now, that I got my list of pointers out of the way. Let's get down to business. (As I say that in my best possible Sean Connery impression. I failed by the way!) To my recommend top five must see in Japan!
2. Atomic Bomb-Dome If you're a history buff like me, than you will definitely want to go to Hiroshima Peace Memorial also called the Atomic Bomb-Dome. In 1996 it was designated a historical site, and a memrioal to those that perished in the boming in WW2. The building itself wasn't completely destroyed, because the blast detinated in the air, unfortently any one caught in the blast was killed. Which makes this place a great way to pay your respects to those that passed.
3. Tsukiji Market
Okay if you love seafood than getting up early to hit the Tsukiji fish market is for you! This place is awesome in the wee hours of the morning. It opens up a 3am but the auctions don't start till 5am. Which our really interesting to watch. It's really crowded from that time till about 8am. But, lets get back to the seafood and the fact that there is over four hundred different types of it sold at the market each day!! You could have your fill and then some!
4. Himeji Castle
Kinda says it in the name, but the Himeji castle is an amazing piece of history. Built around 1580 and around thirty years later was enlarged by the lord that took it over. Since then over the centuries it succeed by forty eight different lords. You can take a tour which takes about an hour and a half to get through with marked arrow to guide. It's a really cool tour that is highly recommended if you go 5. Osaka (Food & Baseball) Your probably wandering why that says food and baseball above…huh. Well, because Osaka is a city obsessed with two things food and baseball! Food is a staple here from udon noodle shops to takoyaki restaurants. Oh, sweet takoyaki!! For those of you that have not had this delicious ball of batter. It is filled with pieces of octopus, and veggies in the middle. Then you can throw some toppings on top like japanese mayo, takoyaki sauce(which is like a sour teriyaki sauce), cheese, and of course the mandatory bonita (fish flakes)! But, out of anything that people in Osaka take more seriously than food is, BASEBALL!! When there is a game on you can hear the whole city cheering on the local team. It's insane!!
Traveling to Japan should definitely be on the to do list of spots around the world to go to. Even if you just go to Tokyo, simply walking around the city can be amazing. So, book a ticket and visit this amazing country!
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/essential/visa.html
I know as a photographer it can be hard deciding what kind of pack you want to put you're camera gear in. I hate trying to figure out what will work best for me, as practical everyday pack, and a working pack when I am on shoots. It's tough figuring it out when half the time you don't have your equipment with you, or you're ordering online. Been plenty of times I have returned items because they have worked for me. I have probably about three different camera bags, for different things. My Langley bag for hiking, my Lowepro Slingshot bag for photo shoots, and a more standard canvas bag for day to day. However, I think I may have found my new day pack! The i-Cam canvas leather shoulder bag looks pretty sweet if you ask me. It looks like a pretty lightweight, but heavy duty bag. Made of a thick cotton wax canvas offers a durable outer shell, and inside removable padding to secure your camera and lenses. Normally the down fall of day packs is your pretty limited on what you can bring. Usually only the camera body and maybe two lenses. With this bag you can bring three! The bag itself has a deep inset for the pouches. You can fit the camera body with an attached lens, with two other lenses on each side. Which is nice when you're out and about. You have some options for what you can capture. I know there has been times when I wanted to get something at long distance and I didn't have my zoom lens. So, that will be a nice change up for me. It will of course add some weight on your day to day. I haven't ordered mine yet, but look forward to getting it soon! And giving a hands on review!!
It's no shocker that I am a big adrenaline junkie! I used to love do all the crazy stuff people cringed about! I think that was always a fun part of it. How far could I push myself, what was my real limit. The true question every true adrenaline seeker really wants to find out. Though I think will never truly find out, because will never be satisfied. Ive done a lot, and still have a lot that I want to check off the list. Here is my list of top adrenaline stops around the world!
2. Something a friend of mine in Australia told me about was the Cage of Death! I mean doesn't that sound awesome, just by the name alone. Basically, its the same principal as the shark cage. But with a a glass like tube that you're thrown in and lowered into a pool full of salt water crocs. You can even bring some one along, the cage fits two! 3. Diving with a great white shark, something I have always wanted to do! It's not because I think they could eat me, their beautiful creatures and should be treated with respect. So, getting in a cage and having very thin metal between me and goliath shark. That's exhilarating!! Cape Town offers the best opportunities year round. And when your down under the water they say that the one thing that goes through your mind is…will this cage hold up! 4. Every skydiver will tell you the next thing up is a HALO jump. Military airborne and special operation troops use to be the only people that could do this jump. Now, we have the opportunity to! HALO stands for High Altitude Low Opening. Jumping from a hieght of over 20,000 feet, and opening the shoot at a low altitude. There our a few spots that offer it one being in Hawaii (20,000), and the other Nepal (29,000). 5. Something that isn't just scary but down right out of your mind for doing it! The Mt. Huashan climb is one of the most treacherous hikes around the world. You start of at "The Heavenly Stairs" which takes you to the “Huashan Plank Walk”; imagine a 2 ft wide plank that has termite damage, with a shear drop off on one side. Thats the hike! Don't worry though if you survive there is a nice little tea shop at the top! 6. One thing I lived through enough times is a tornado. And I don't plan on doing it while in the seating in a car, driving into it. However, if you want to then by all means do it! You can book a tour, they typically last about six days, and you'll chase down storm through three different states. Most companies even state that if you don;t see one, they'll give you're money back. Isn't that nice! 7. Out of one thing in the world that is on the top of my check list is. Base jumping with a wing suit! That is my true adrenaline seeking moment, one that will define me! Jumping off a cliff and flying I think is any body's dream. To be above the earth floating across a sea of trees and landscapes. Ah, the dream! Now that you have seen the list, or you brave bough to try one! Are maybe all of them!
You I think there is a wide variety of misconceptions when it comes to photography gear. Especially, for travel photographers! People always believe that the more expensive the gear, the better the photos. Honestly, you don't have to have a $3,000 camera to take a photo. I mean yes in some instances a great DSLR will give you crystal clear images, with the ability to editing an so forth. But, you can capture good images even with a cell phone. It's the skill of the photographer that makes the image come to life.
Yes, at times you may need an expensive camera to capture some fast moving object like a sports team. Then you will need a camera with a large sensor or a lens with a wider aperture. Your average travel photographer won't need such gear, because most likely will not play a factor in to it. You're main concern would be to travel light, your budget, how it will effect you, and what will work best. It's pointless to go about looking at the most expensive, right off the bat! So, you're better off figuring out where you stand,before you start buying. Figure out your budget and know what you will need. As a travel photographer it's not to much, which is nice. Camera body, lens, filters, extra batteries, and memory cards.
Getting everything you need and sticking to budget can be difficult. So, here is a good price point to guide you by.
Traveling light is a big factor when on the road. Having heavy gear can slow you down, cause back ache, and unnecessary weight to your pack. You have to be honest with yourself, do you want to waste money on a camera that will just set there doing nothing, or one you will sell once you realize its to heavy to carry around. You'' run across tons of travelers that just bring smart phones, or a point and shoot with them. Just because it saves them weight, and they know they can still get what they need out of it. Now, I know for me I want to capture a little bit more than what you can on a smart phone. But, that is an option for you most smart phone have a pretty good amount of mega pixels built in. However, you can do much as far as editing and so forth. Especially if your going to sell your work to any galleries, or magazines. My personal preference use to be Canon all the way, would't chose any differently. But, after traveling for a while and realizing the amount of extra weight I was putting on my back carrying that camera and the lenses around did to me. Had to rethink my options a little, now I stick with Sony A7 2! It is an amazing camera that still offers a great deal. Amazing low light photos, along with it being a full fame camera, it does offer an amazing wide angle shots we all love. Most importantly it weighs a lot less than my Canon! Before we get into what camera you should think about buying. First, lets talk about the learning curve of a new camera and how long it will take to over come any obstacles. I have been on constant shoots where I have seen photographers using thousands of dollars worth of equipment, only to see them in auto mode. YOU will have to put some effort into learning how to use it. The more buttons, the more control, the more complicated it is to achieve great images without some prep time. What camera should I buy? Oldest question in the book for any photographer starting out, heck I asked the same questions. When it comes to picking the right one it can be tough with so many different varieties out their. Below is a list of you can base you search off of from Smart Phones to DSLR's.
When it comes to lenses their really isn't a brand to choose from, but more what style you should choose.
Accessories come in a wide variety of different things. From batteries, to filters, straps, tripods, and etc… I leave that for you to decide, me I don't take very much with as far accessories go. When it comes to taking photos and being a travel photographer. Adventure makes you great, and the most important tool for creating stunning images is… you! So, get out there and show the world what you're made of. When boredom hit on those long train rides, flights, and bus rides. It's good to have one or two books handy to keep your self entertained and in keep that brain active. Unless you can stare out of window for hours on end, then your gonna need something to do. I love to read so I always have a great selection of books to take with me. Now, don't take to many of them this will weigh your pack down. If you finish the book and want to get another. The great thing about other travelers is they will probably trade you a book for a book! So, you'll never really run out while your traveling. It's kind of like a roaming library! The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future: There are a lot of books out their to choose from and they don't have to be about travel. I do read a lot of travel books for inspiration, but sometimes I do sidetrack myself every now and then. It keeps me focused on things i'm working on or things that interest me. One of my favorite books I am reading right now is another great one from Chris Guillebeau. His written a few other books that I love and are on my favorite list. Like "The Art of Non Conformity" and "The Happiness of Pursuit" which didn't make the list, but do make the honorable mention list for pick up. This is a great book for those wanting to setup an online business with a limited budget! It's a more example driven book than others I have read. Which is nice to see, I always enjoy hearing others experiences. My favorite quote from the book is "What if – very soon, not in some distant, undefined future – you prepare for work by firing up a laptop in your home office, walking into a storefront you’ve opened, phoning a client who trusts you for helpful advice, or otherwise doing what you want instead of what someone tells you to do?" This is a great reference for those looking to start a business! Wanderlust: For the Young, Broke Professional: Because Traveling Should Not Just be a Luxury for the Rich: Honestly, their are a lot books of this particular genre. It is kind of a how to guide, on traveling solo. How to save money, manage your time, and what to expect when your on the road. This one is geared to the traveler who is... well broke. Which most of us are! I have thoroughly enjoyed Mathis approach on how to travel solo, as a student, and as a well rounded traveler. She provides a basic cost comparison for accommodations, stresses that you avoid the tourist trap, safety concerns, and etc... One thing she stresses is "research, research, research!" when it comes to inexpensive travel. I think notable the one thing I love most about this book is the extensive amount of suggestions to online resources! Lonely Planet's Guide to Travel Writing: Expert Advice from the World's Leading Travel Publisher: This is one I have been reading a lot for some secret reasons, that I will share probably in a few months. However, it is full of valuable advice for any one looking to write about travel. Rather it be for a blog, articles, or even a book. It gives you the run down on how to craft a great travel story, how to conduct research, interviews, and techniques to get your self published. Overall it's a fantastic read, from one of my favorite travel writers Don George! Into the Wild : This is probably my top favorite for any book I bring with me, I think I have read it about a 100 times! The story of Christopher McCandless has always been the story that inspired me to become a traveler. He gave up everything to see the world in a vision quest kind of way. He choose to leave the map behind and explore on his own whim. The author Jon Krakauer dug deep into the short life the McCandless aka Alexander Supertramp left behind. And gave an excellent illumination of understanding of the journey he set forth on. If you haven't read this book or seen the movie, please due so. It will be so worth it! Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-term World Travel: This is by far my favorite book!! I take this ever time I travel and I will never trade! So, if you meet me on the road, you won't be getting this one on the roaming library! The author Rolf Potts is the godfather of Vagabonding, if your wandering what that is. A Vagabond is an outlook on life that emphasizes creativity, discovery, and the growth of one's spirit. This is the perfect book for the first time long-term traveler. It is an inspirational book that really effected me and gave me a knew way of traveling. I am a Vagabond! I stick a lot to what Rolf says and his advice. And sometimes I through my own twist on it. This are all of the current and favorites that I read on a constant basis. Check them out and indulge yourself. If you have something you like to read, leave it in a comment below! I am always up for new books to read!! Me and my wife became parents for the first time in March of this year. To a bouncing baby boy, and I got to thinking the other day. If he is any thing like us, his sense of adventure is going to be through the roof, and hard to contain. I got to thinking will he want to go on trips, what will he think, or will he annex the whole thing and be a shut in! SO, I went to the web!! Did some research, because even though I have traveled a lot. I have know idea to what it's like traveling abroad with a child. From all that research I hope he has the itch for travel, and I am sure he will. Getting all of your papers/forms in order: I think it's safe to say that this is kinda basic any time you travel. However, it becomes far more important when you are taking you're children with you. You wanna apply for any passports/visas for any one that needs them. Everyone needs travel documents... even newborns! It takes time for any paperwork to be processed, so don't wait till the last minute. You also want to make sure your expiration date is several months out from you're scheduled return home. Some, countries will not allow you to leave unless there is at least a month barrier. Mainly, just in case you get stuck for whatever reason. Flights.... Dealing with layovers and jet lag: When it comes to flying I found that it can be probably be the easiest and the hardiest part of the trip. A lot of people advise that you try and get an evening flight. And this makes a lot of sense, mainly to keep them on a schedule they our use too. Nice, added benefit is they are snoozing most of the flight. This is also good for jet lag, so it's a little easier when you arrive. And you wanna keep this same tactic when you return as well. When you arrive you wanna spend a lot of time in the daylight. It's gonna take them just as long as you to get back on track. So, be sure to put them on local time before you leave, and when you are departing. Another top tip bring lots of snacks and activities! Medical Needs: Have your kids scheduled for a check up prior to your trip abroad. This way if they have any health issues, and what the doctor would advise while your away. Good advice to is have them list generic medications for you to purchase while overseas, and have them print a copy of your child medical record. Mainly, for worst case scenarios. Insurance is a double check, call your provider. As we all know with insurance companies it can be a real pain in the butt to get anything confirmed. So, you wanna be 100% sure that everything will be taken care of prior to leaving. Planning your trip around your kids: When it comes to traveling with your kids, you will have frustrating moments. Plan activities around your child's energy level, if they can only do one thing... only do one thing. I know you wanna cram as much in as possible, but you wanna try to keep everyone as relaxed as possible. So, go to a local tourist spot like a museum and then after that go have a nice lunch. This will allow everyone to settle down, and if they wanna do something more. You'll have time to head out to the next thing! Don't let your kids try to push you towards not doing something adventurous. Bribe them if you have to, but the experience will be worth it! Eventually, they will be begging you to go places. But, the first trips always the toughest. Hopefully, my son won't have this problem. But it can happen, there kids! I feel taking your kids with you on trips, especially to help them grow as person. It creates family bonds, and stories that will last a lifetime! Kids will always talk about a trip to the beach, or a camping trip. But, taking them to another country they will brag about that to everyone. Most importantly you can teach you're children about other cultures, history, and languages. This can help them in there future endeavors, being citizens of the world. I know a lot of companies look for those that can speak different languages, and be confident in living there. Overall when my son is old enough, and willing to go with us on trips. I will be more than happy to take him, and help him grow. And when he wants to venture off on his own travels, I will be there to support him in any way! |