Summer Vacation Tips

(WTNH) - Summer is here! Time to hit the open road and/or head to the beach! Travel expert and author of “The Mom’s Guide to Traveling with Kids,” Allison Umbricht is here to talk about summer travel tips.

1) Don’t plan flights in afternoon – avoid delays caused by summer afternoon thunderstorms. (Avoid flying late afternoon)

2) Wear flip flops or easy slip-on slip-off shoes but bring socks and a sweater – it is often cold on the plane (Bring socks and a sweater for the airplane)

3) The Caribbean is a great summer getaway but remember June – November is hurricane season – consider trip insurance. (Consider travel insurance)

4) Take advantage of great values to popular winter getaways. Many hotels are most expensive are in the winter. A 5 star hotel in the Carribbean that costs approximately $450 per night in Feburary is $139 per night in July. Additionally, many ski resorts turn into fun summer escapes at ½ the price. (Look around for some great hotel values)

5) Be flexible in your timing – if flying, try to fly midweek. If driving avoid rush hours in major stops and avoid weekend traffic. Its summer – everyone is escaping the city. Go Monday to Monday if you can instead of Saturday – Saturday. (Be flexible in timing)

6) If you are traveling by car, get your car checked out, fill up with gas (Make sure your car is ready for the trip)

7) Put copy of your itinerary and emergency contact information in the kids’ backpacks. (Pack emergency contact information and itinerary in your kids’ backpacks)

8) When leaving the house, check the checklist. Have a neighbor check on your house, adjust the ac and throw out trash (Prepare your house for your trip)

9) Keep the kids happy – fill a small bag for each child with toys from the Dollar section. The element of surprise goes a long way. (Pack a small bag of surprises for the kids)

10) If it rains on your vacation, Remember the point of the trip is a vacation and spending time together – it is better than do laundry! Sometimes it is nice to get a break from the heat anyway (If it rains, it is still a vacation)

11) Stay hydrated and protect yourself – Drinks lots of water and don’t forget the sunblock – remember TSA’s 3-1-1 though for carry ons (Stay hydrated and protect yourself)