Spring Break Travel Tips
Stay Organized & Enjoy the Adventure!
By Jenn Tims of Move 4 Moments, TULA Contributor
Spring Break is almost here, and whether you're heading to a resort, a cozy Airbnb, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, preparation is key to keeping stress at bay. Our friend Jenn Tims over at Move 4 Moments has mastered the art of making travel smoother, and we’re here to share her best tips to keep you organized—especially when heading abroad with kids in tow!
Before You Leave: Essential To-Dos
✔ Check Your Phone Plan – Contact your provider to see if you need an international plan or if Wi-Fi calling will be enough.
✔ Passport Prep – Snap a pic of your passport barcode and scan all important documents (IDs, passports, insurance cards) to a Google Drive folder. Print extra copies and give access to a trusted family member.
✔ Consider Travel Insurance – Many credit cards like American Express include built-in travel insurance, or you can purchase a plan through your booking provider.
✔ Check Booking Flexibility – We love Southwest & Marriott for their generous cancellation policies (free up to three days prior!).
✔ Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees – Check your credit card for hidden charges and notify your bank before traveling.
✔ Have Some Cash on Hand – While credit cards are widely accepted, some experiences like golf carts (Isla Mujeres) and jet ski rentals (Cabo) are cash-only. Be wary of ATM fees—once in Isla Mujeres, it cost $27 just to withdraw cash!
✔ Hold Your Mail – Use USPS.com to pause mail delivery while you’re away.
✔ Enlist Help at Home – If you're using a home service like TULA, schedule them to handle trash pickup, package collection, and plant watering. Some families even Airbnb their home while traveling (a great way to offset vacation costs!).
Packing Smart: What You Really Need
For Everyone:✔ Pack a carry-on with essentials (swimsuit, cover-up, medications, skincare) in case luggage is delayed.
✔ Extra Shoes – Learned the hard way when my kid’s shoe got caught in an escalator in Mexico—sandals break, sneakers rip, and new shoes mean blisters. Always pack a backup pair!
✔ A Way to Get Wet Swimsuits Home – If you swim on travel day, use the towel trick to dry suits or pack a reusable waterproof pouch.
✔ Bug Bracelets & Sunscreen – Some destinations require reef-safe sunscreen, like Isla Mujeres.
✔ Portable Phone Charger – For long days of sightseeing or navigating airports.
✔ Crossbody Bag or Sling – Hands-free is the way to go, especially for busy airports and markets. The Canvelle sling bag is a favorite!
For the Kids:✔ Download movies before the flight or check the airline’s entertainment options.
✔ Travel stroller & snacks – Customs lines in Cancun can be a breeze or a two-hour wait—snacks and a lightweight stroller are lifesavers.
✔ Pool bag essentials: Sunglasses, goggles, hats, and any must-have toys.
✔ A Backup Outfit in a Ziploc – Accidents happen, and having a fresh set of clothes is a game-changer.
Dining & Entertainment: Maximizing Fun
✔ Make Reservations Early – Some resorts require reservations for special dining like hibachi. If you miss out, try this: have an early buffet dinner with the kids to curb hangry meltdowns, then enjoy a late-night specialty dinner when more slots open up. Bonus: Kids eat way more on vacation thanks to all that swimming and adventuring!
✔ Check for Theme Nights – Many resorts have special events like white parties, bubble parties, or cultural nights. I always pack themed outfits in our carry-on so we can dive straight into the fun if our room isn’t ready.
✔ Scope Out Kids’ Clubs & Activities – Most family-friendly resorts have kids’ clubs, but hours vary. Knowing in advance means you can plan downtime (or sneak in a spa treatment!).
✔ Take It Slow – It’s tempting to schedule back-to-back excursions, but kids need downtime. A relaxed beach evening can be just as magical as a packed itinerary.
✔ Indoor & Rainy Day Backup Plan – Even tropical destinations get rainy days. Look for resorts with playrooms, arts & crafts, or movie nights. Downloading a few extra games or shows can save the day, too!
Transportation & Safety
✔ Airport Transfers – Many hotels offer shuttles, but always confirm details in advance.
✔ Car Seats – We bring our inflatable travel car seat for flexibility. Some shuttle services claim to provide them but don’t always follow through.
✔ Know Your Arrival Plan – If you land late, having a change of clothes handy means you can freshen up and hit the resort festivities right away.
✔ Set Expectations with Kids – Before you go, chat about resort rules (staying close, trying new foods, sharing activity choices). It helps prevent meltdowns later!
Final Thoughts...
Whether you're headed to a beach resort, a city escape, or a family road trip, the key to stress-free travel is preparation. A little planning now means more time to relax and create amazing memories. And don’t forget—this is your vacation, too! Sneak in some me time, whether it’s a sunset cocktail, a quiet coffee on the balcony, or a quick solo stroll along the beach.
What’s your best travel tip for families? Drop it in the comments and save this list for your next adventure!
More great tips and info from Jenn on her instagram (linked below)
Click the links below and follow Jenn at “Move4Moments” for more family travel tips!
Making bedtime easier on vacation
Have a baby who doesn’t sleep when you travel
My favorite travel stroller
30A” of Texas