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. Remember too that breast milk is exempt from the 100 ml carry-on liquid rule.

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 compact breast pump that moms can use on the go. Some Medela pumps are hands-free and USB rechargeable for up to six sessions, so you don’t need to hunt down a power outlet. If you’re preparing to pump and nurse on the go, pack less by choosing one of Medela’s pumping and nursing bras.

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

(Source : News Canada)

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User reviews have been mixed, and spots in Canada’s most popular parks still sold out within moments this year. But even if would-be campers missed the boat on national and provincial park campsites, they aren’t entirely out of luck. Canada has a wealth of privately-owned campgrounds that may have last-minute availability.

Private campground ownership ranges from your typical family business to commercial operators with locations nationwide. When choosing a private campground, campers may find added amenities like pools, private beaches, playground structures, kids’ clubs, family-friendly events and campsites to suit all manner of guests and budgets – from cabins and yurts to RV and tent sites.

Jean-Marc Desy is a regional manager at Parkbridge, which owns and operates 37 campgrounds and RV resorts. He has seen many campers make the switch. “The value is unbeatable, particularly in Quebec,” he says. “Our locations near Montreal have pools or splash pads, pickleball courts and a legendary BBQ Festif event.”

Private campgrounds can also be booked a year or more in advance, meaning you can plan well ahead of schedule and skip the early-morning reservation rush to book your preferred site.

(Source : News Canada)

L’article Finding hidden gem campgrounds est apparu en premier sur Courrier Laval news.

One consideration that may slip through the cracks for many travellers is the threat of carbon monoxide. Commonly known as CO, it is an odourless, invisible and poisonous gas. CO can be emitted by fuel-burning appliances such as water heaters, stoves, furnaces and more, and it can only be detected by a CO alarm.

Here are some tips to incorporate CO safety into your next trip, whether near or far.

• Do your research. Booking a place to stay through a private rental company or individual is a great way to experience a more local side of your destination – but there can be a lot of variables when booking a private space. Read online reviews and, if necessary, reach out to the host to ask about the safety measures that will be available to you on-site.
• Add safety to your packing list. Even where CO alarms may be required, if one is missing from your space or not working properly, it’s better to be safe than sorry overnight. A travel-friendly alarm, like the First Alert 10-year sealed battery carbon monoxide alarm – which you can simply place on a tabletop – can help you rest safely on your trip.
• Scout the area. In case of a carbon monoxide emergency, it’s vital to get to fresh air immediately. Whenever you check into new accommodations, locate all exterior doors and fire exits so you can act quickly if needed.
• Stay safe on wheels. Recreational vehicles (RVs) offer the best of both worlds: transportation and accommodation. However, having a full kitchen and bathroom on wheels often means a reliance on propane. It’s important to regularly check propane-burning appliances like refrigerators, hot water heaters and stoves/ovens for leaks and ensure everything is in good working order. When you purchase a CO alarm for your motor home or campervan, ensure it is RV-certified.

(Source : News Canada)

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Here’s how to make the most of everything Canada has to offer with a more sustainable summer vacation.

Go offline and get outside 
For a truly refreshing and restorative staycation, disconnect for a few days without reaching for phones or laptops. Electronics can disrupt our circadian rhythm and natural sleep cycle. Consider morning salutations or meditation to connect with nature and set your intentions for the day.

There are 37 national parks and 10 national park reserves in Canada, plus numerous provincial parks and local nature reserves to explore, meaning nature isn’t far from your doorstep.

“Camp” from the comfort of home  
Roughing it in the outdoors may not be ideal for everyone, but it’s easy to create a quality camping experience from home. Set up a tent in the backyard or a local campground, light some candles or a bonfire, and roast marshmallows and hot dogs using sticks fallen from nearby trees.

Try bringing food and snacks you already have in the fridge or pantry. If grocery shopping’s a must, consider carbon-neutral food options like Maple Leaf Natural Top Dogs. The Carbon Zero logo indicates a carbon neutral company to help you identify planet-friendly options for your cookout.

Support sustainable experiences  
Looking for a new experience? Try visiting food festivals or fundraisers in your area. These provide the opportunity for you and your family to support the community while also cutting down on your carbon emissions since you won’t have to travel far.

If booking a hotel or rental property, ask your accommodation provider about their sustainability commitments to choose an option that aligns with sustainable tourism.

Make staycations the new vacations. The more we explore our neighbourhoods on foot, the smaller our carbon footprint.

(Source : News Canada)

L’article 3 tips for a sustainable summer staycation est apparu en premier sur Courrier Laval news.

Here are some tips to get started from Chris Mark, the European destination expert with Canadian booking agency Hosted Villas.

1. Money matters
   Before you start planning your trip, you need to determine how much you can afford to spend and when you can travel. Keep in mind that some countries are more expensive than others (especially in northern Europe), that cities are more expensive than the countryside and that peak season travel (July and August) is always costlier.
2. Where to go
   Once you have your budget and travel dates, you can start researching specific destinations. Europe has a diverse range of cultures, landscapes and attractions, so consider what interests you the most. Do you want to explore historic cities, hike in the mountains or relax on the beach? Don’t be too ambitious. Instead, focus on going deeper into a smaller number of regions, and try to avoid the big city crowds.
3. What to do
   After you’ve chosen your destinations, it’s time to plan your itinerary. For those who prefer to do all their own planning, you can use travel guides, blogs and online forums to get an idea of the must-see attractions and activities in each location. For those who prefer to rely on an expert, contact a European tour specialist or travel agent for advice. Don’t forget to build some down time into the plan so that you can savour the experience.
4. Where to stay and how to get around
   With your itinerary in hand, you can start booking your accommodation and transportation. For help, you can always contact a travel agent – their fees are generally covered by the suppliers. Try to avoid the big chain hotels in favour of small boutique properties and stay within walking distances of local attractions. Also, consider the most convenient and affordable transportation between destinations, such as trains, buses or flights.
5. Stay flexible
   Despite your best efforts, unexpected things can happen during your trip. It’s essential to be flexible and adaptable to changes in your itinerary or plans. This can include weather-related cancellations, transportation delays or unexpectedly closed attractions. Try to stay positive and embrace the unexpected, as it may lead to some of the most memorable moments of your trip – and don’t forget to buy travel insurance.

Finally, take the time to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of each place. Try local foods, meet new people and immerse yourself in the culture. It’s these experiences that will create lasting memories and make your trip unforgettable.

(Source : News Canada)

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However, as much fun as travel can be, careful planning can go a long way towards helping your trip be successful. Here are some tips presented by TD Insurance that could help you prepare for your upcoming travels.

1. Well ahead of your trip, make sure you have all required documentation including your passport and booking confirmations. Remember to check your passport’s expiry date and any visa or entry requirements specific to your destination.
2. If you are travelling outside your province of residence in Canada or internationally, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance policies can include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption or emergency medical costs.
3. Before travelling, select a travel insurance plan that fits your needs and carefully review your coverage, including any limitations and exclusions so you understand what you’re covered for. Remember, the cost of medical bills, travel interruption or cancellation expenses could outweigh the cost of travel insurance.

(Source : News Canada)

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