Family Travel, some love it, some dread it. It’s not so much the actual vacation part that seems dificult but the getting there that can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you are traveling with kids.
But planning a family vacation does not have to be planning for a disaster waiting to happen. Planning ahead is the key to a successful family vacation. Read on for tips that will make your next family vacation the best ever!

Money is always an issue in today's world, but that doesn't mean you can't plan a fun vacation on a tight budget, it just takes a few tricks and some smart thinking in order to pull it off. Here is what I found to be useful when planning a money conscious vacation.

Attitude is everything: expect problems, go with the flow and everything will work out great. Travel is hard and traveling with kids is even harder.

• Definitely don't forget the baby wipes they work for more than just butts.
• Car Seats and booster seats can be checked in for free. Get a car seat cover that zips up and you can stuff some extras in like diapers and wipes so you don’t have to pack it all in your suitcase.
• Car Seats can be used on the flight, booster seats can’t.
• If you haven’t removed your carseat since you installed it, you may want to practice before you are in a rush at the rental car place to figure it out.
• Kids get dirty, especially when they're traveling. Bring a small container of special travel detergent and a bag to keep the dirty stuff in till you get home.
• Bring a stash of toys and activities that they kids haven’t seen before, new is always more exciting.
• Don’t assume that the airplane will have free movies for the kids. Consider loading a movie or 2 on your phone or ipod or bringing a portable DVD player.
• For kids that read – there are several magnetic games available at Target in the travel section. Easy to carry and the pieces won’t fly all over.
• Leave at the right time- If your kids nap (or if you do), use their schedules to your advantage - Don’t plan to arrive at the airport at naptime. If you can be in the air for naptime all the better and while a red eye may not sound fun to you, flying the entire way while the kids are sleeping may be something to think about.
• Ask your Travel Agent- For the airlines that still serve food, most have Children's meals, order one.
• Boarding- Most airlines have dropped special boarding for families with small children. Be ready to board with the rest of the pack.