How to Minimize Stress on a Family Vacation

(NC) Vacations should be the stuff of dreams. But if you’re lucky to travel as a family with kids and maybe even grandparents in tow – along with everyone’s competing wants and needs – then a smooth trip can feel like an uphill battle. Here are some tips to make this adventure your best one yet.

KEEP KIDS IN THE LOOP Surprises are overrated when it comes to vacations. Is it worth the potential meltdowns? Kids have little control over their lives day-to-day and their regular routines help them feel comfortable, confident and safe. Talking through each step of your trip ahead of time can help prepare them for unfamiliar situations and put them at ease. Showing them your route on a map, for instance, can help kids feel involved and get them excited.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FAMILY PERKS Many hotels and resorts have family discounts or special activities for groups. If you’re flying, check with your airline about baggage, as some will let you check strollers and bulky baby gear for no fee. Arriving early and using the family boarding time will also help reduce stress.

PACE YOURSELVES It can be tempting to cram every possible activity into your limited time away, but remember to schedule in some down time too. Constantly being on the go is a recipe for exhausted kids and tantrums. And if you’re travelling with a new baby, accept that your pace will likely be slower than before you had kids. Enjoy your time together and allow for one-on-one side trips with older kids or grandparents too.

PACK SMART AND STREAMLINED You know you can’t pack everything, but some items can make a big difference. For new parents traveling with little ones, look for simple streamlined versions of the tools you need, such as a collapsible stroller, folding booster seat or a collapsible playpen.

It’s also always a good idea to pack snacks, diapers and small activities to keep the kids happy too!

Tomato Chickpea Salad

I am always in the mood for chickpeas, they’re my favourite legume, I add them anywhere I can, which is why I love this fresh summer salad, plus it uses the best of what’s in season – cucumbers and tomatoes. It’s very little work (10 minutes or less), no cooking, great for hot weather eating, and it’s healthy and nutritious – a great source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and packed with protein – who knew eating healthy could taste this good?

I like it as a meatless main (or work lunch), but holds up beside something off the grill, if you prefer. It’s also naturally gluten free if you’re taking to a potluck, BBQ or family picnic. It also keeps up to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups diced cucumbers, partially peeled

1-2 cups tomato, seeded and diced (or grape or cherry tomatoes,

1/2 cup red onion, diced

2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

1/2 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

½ tsp kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

19 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

140 g container feta cheese, diced

Instructions

Combine all ingredients together and toss well.

Variations

Add bell peppers and kalamata olives for a Greek inspired version

Add (just before serving) diced avocado for some extra creaminess and healthy fat

Chickpeas not your thing? Swap them out for white or black canned beans!

Use any acid, like lime juice or red wine vinegar, in place of lemon

Make it your own by adding fresh garlic, herbs, celery, peppers, mint, dill, or whatever you’re in the mood for. I love to add artichoke hearts (marinated, jar) to add a tasty twist.