Some of these suggestions, plus your own creative ideas, will help make your winter trips fun for the whole family.
Planning: Take advantage of the Chamber of Commerce or Visitors Bureau in the area you plan to visit. Ask for a vacation/information packet and request pertinent literature for your specific vacation. Many of the packets offer discount coupons for lodging and attractions. The packet is usually free, but allow three to four weeks for delivery.
Safety First: Winterize your vehicle by having a professional maintenance checkup on the battery, antifreeze, heater and defroster. If necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade weight.
Check road condition reports, and keep over a half-tank of fuel at all times. Assemble a survival kit of blankets, sleeping bags, warm clothing, a flashlight, flares and matches. Pack plenty of nonperishable foods, and if you have snow chains make sure you know how to use them. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and carry a cell phone.
Lodging: To avoid disappointments, make lodging reservations at least four weeks in advance, earlier if you are visiting during a peak travel season.
The Internet is a great way to search for bargains. If you require a crib for infants, reserve one at the time you make the room reservations. Always request a written confirmation and take it along as proof of your reservation.
Bed and Breakfasts (B&B) and Country Inns: Usually a former family dwelling, this type of lodging is increasing in popularity for anniversaries and honeymoon destinations.
Many of the B&Bs are historic homes decorated with antique furnishings and are not suited for young children. The Christian Hospitality Network (1-856-376-7546, www.christianhospitalitynetwork. org) has a listing of Christian B&Bs located near winter vacation destinations.
Number One Lost Item on a Trip: Eyeglasses. Make sure you carry an extra pair of glasses or a prescription. Prescription medicine is also lost when the day of the week containers get shuffled on the trip, so take your childproof bottles of medicine with you.
Airplane Travel: Try packing one small suitcase with at least one set of clothing for each family member in case your luggage is misrouted. Include a copy of your itinerary in each suitcase.
Hiking or Camping in Winter: Dress in layers. Wool or synthetic materials are much better suited to cold conditions. Boots should have waterproof outer shells such as oiled leather.
Always wear a toboggan to protect against heat loss, as half your body heat can be lost through your head. Do not wear too many pairs of socks or tight gloves. They can constrict blood flow and inhibit your hands and feet from warming up.
Planning a Trip with Children: Make the children feel they are part of the planning stage of the vacation. Hold a family travel meeting to study family vacation options and activities.
Highlight the map for the inevitable question, “Are we there yet?” Give each child a travel journal and a disposable camera for memories that will last a lifetime. Research extra indoor attractions in case inclement weather foils your outdoor pursuits.
Games Children Play: Listed in Fodors travel publications’ “Road Guides USA,” is a great traveling game, Family Ark. Noah had his ark — here is your chance to build your own. Name animals and work your way through the alphabet from antelope to zebra. Many of the Vacation Bible School games will work in the car also. It is amazing how many jewelry items can be made from dental floss and fruit loop cereal.
The drink of choice in the car is water, since it is not sticky when spilled. Pack a picnic lunch and stop at a rest area where the children can have much-needed exercise time.
Traveling with Teens: Do not be too upset if your teen does not seem as enthusiastic about a family vacation as the younger set.
A new CD of their favorite contemporary Christian artist and a portable CD player ensures contentment while traveling. It is also a good way to open the discussion about Christian music. The number one request from teens on a family vacation — to bring a friend.
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