Tips and Tricks for Traveling With the Little Ones

Family vacations are one of the most enjoyable ways to create lifelong memories together. The smiles, photos, and unforgettable experiences are a few of the many reasons why families choose to spend their holiday in the Bradenton Area. With a wide array of family-friendly activities, children of all ages are bound to have an amazing time. Although traveling with young children can seem a daunting, we have some tips that will make your family trip to Anna Maria Island even more enjoyable.

Family-Friendly Lodging

We know traveling with kids means you might need a little more space, and there are plenty of places to spread out and relax. Check out hotels like Springhill Suites in downtown Bradenton, where you can find suites with separate living rooms and bedrooms. Need a bigger place? From one-bedroom bungalows to houses and condos with multiple bedrooms, vacation rentals are also popular with families of all sizes. With all of the necessities and amenities found at home, like a kitchen, laundry room, and separate living spaces, these vacation rentals are like your ‘home away from home.’

Bring Snacks, or Have Them Delivered

A hungry kid can be a grouchy kid. Stash some of their favorite snacks in your bag before your flight to the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport or going out on that dolphin-watching excursion. Craving something else (or a late-night treat) after a day of exploration? Put your feet up and relax while a service like Island Eats Delivery bring your order from one of the many local restaurants to your hotel, vacation rental, or your umbrella on the beach!

Necessities… Simplified!

Although traveling is exciting, it can also place kids outside of their daily routine. Occasionally a little distraction is all they need, but sometimes they really want their favorite stuffed animal or book. Be proactive and bring a variety of their favorite items—but there’s no need to overpack. There are concierge services that will deliver toys and other daily comforts to your hotel room or vacation rental, even before you arrive. Talk about convenient.

Sunscreen, Beach Toys, and More

The Bradenton Area has more sunny days than not, so be prepared and bring some sunscreen and a hat. Using sunscreen will protect your child’s sensitive skin and allow for more family fun in the sand. But don’t worry about packing bulky beach toys, there are local businesses, like Beach Bums, that will rent them for your entire vacation. Don’t forget to ask them about inflatable innertubes or beach chairs!

Take Your Time

You’re on vacation, so take it slow! You’ll have plenty of time to see all of the sites and visit that restaurant you’ve been following on Instagram. Traveling with young kids seems to always take longer than expected, so leave plenty of time before (and in between) activities. Even if you don’t get to see everything you wanted on this trip, like The Nest at Robinson Preserve, you’ll have a perfect excuse to come back and visit again.

More To See, More To Do

Don’t forget that there’s so much more to see and do while you’re here, including events, festivals, and kid-friendly activities like the Splash Pad at the Bradenton Riverwalk!