------ Family Vacation Security Essentials: How To Have A Safe Getaway With The Kids

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Jetting off on a vacation with your family is an opportunity that should never be missed, as you'll gain the chance to visit new surroundings, explore new cultures and enjoy a little rest and relaxation away from the usual hustle and bustle of your daily life. However, one big factor that you always need to bear in mind when you're planning a child-friendly holiday is security, as you need to take extra steps to keep your kids safe when you're so far away from home. Thankfully, this guide is filled to the brim with brilliant tips and tricks that you can make the most of to maintain ultimate peace of mind when traveling with your little ones, and it couldn't be easier to start arranging a stress free vacation today. So, if you're interested in finding out more, then simply read on!

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Staying Vigilant While On The Move

The actual traveling aspect of your vacation may be the most dangerous time during your entire trip, as you'll be moving from one location to the next in a busy environment with lots of people and potential risks around. If your children are young, below the age of 6-7, then you may wish to consider investing in a child harness. You can attach this onto their person (either access their body or on their wrist, though their wrist is less secure), and either attach this to your pram if you have one or simply hold on to it. This will mean that your little one is unable to wander away from you when you're in somewhere full of people like the airport, as they'll always be within 3-4 feet of you. My daughter tried something similar with her toddler who likes to run (fast!) when they are out in public, but she would bear down and refuse to move!! As a grandma, I shouldn't have laughed at the pictures the first (and I think only) time they attempted to use one, but I admit, it did make me laugh. It was the look of sheer defiance and indignance that got me and I was honestly cracking up (she's such a sweet personality, so she must have really hated the harness/leash). I have seen one successfully work for others though, and if it does, it very well could be a great idea for helping keep little ones safe.

For older children that are more responsible, it's a good idea to install some kind of tracking app on their smartphone that allows you to see wherever they are. So, if your older teenager wants to head off to duty free to check out the perfume and handbags, you'll be able to monitor their every move to ensure they don't stray too far. There are many GPS apps for iPhone and Android that you can download with ease, but you must make sure that their location settings are switched on if you want to use such a feature.

Choose Family Friendly Destinations

There are thousands of different location destinations around the world, some of which are better suited to families and children. However, a good number of popular locations are not particularly child-friendly, so you must make sure that you decide on a suitable place that's been specially designed to accommodate families. Taking a quick look online should allow you to uncover a variety of different options that you and your little ones can visit, whether you want a sun-kissed beach getaway in Spain or a festive trip to Lapland! You and your family will feel far safer and more comfortable in somewhere that's widely known for its security.

For me, it was the stroller. No matter how much drudgery it caused to bring one along, I always had one when the kids were little. That way, I knew exactly where they were (and they were buckled in) at all times. I could see them, touch them, protect them, and know that they were always right there at my fingertips.

No matter the way you choose, there are many ways to enjoy a safe outing with the family, you just want to make sure to take the precautions to do so. Bon voyage!