You could say travel is in my 16-year-old son’s blood. My husband and I love to travel and we live near Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport, so my son was raised going on trips with us rather than being left with relatives—also one of the perks of being an only child.
Travel opens up the world: I truly believe that exploring other cultures and seeing our commonality can cure many of the world’s ills. I like to think travel has enlarged my son’s outlook.
While globe-trotting with a small child has its own set of challenges—how to keep them entertained on long car rides and providing healthy snacks in-flight—I think traveling with a teenager brings up some unique issues too. There are also real advantages to journeying with a teenager. Teens are naturally curious and open to new experiences and places, often have incredibly unique interests and make great travel companions.
There’s something about being in another city that makes teenagers a little more receptive, I think, to their parents’ interests. So while it would be hard to drag your kid to a concert or a gallery in your hometown if they weren’t interested, it can be an easier proposition when you are out of town, their defenses are down and everyone is feeling more exploratory.
I’ve come up with 12 tips that have helped me keep trips, whether international or domestic, fun for the entire family. Part of travel is letting go: of your plans, of your expectations, of your habits. And letting go can often mean allowing the youngest member of your group, dictate some of what the journey will be.
To learn more about: 12 Tips for Traveling With a Teenager Click Here
By: Felicia Feaster