Mapping out your travel plans requires some forethought. The complications of planning can become compounded when you've got a spouse and a kid (or two, or three!) to plan for as well. It's enough to put many families off travelling altogether. However, don't despair – having children doesn't mean having to put a lid on wanderlust. Here, we offer several tips for parents on how to travel with (and without) kids.

Family vacations create lots of unique learning opportunities for children by exposing them to different environments, cultures and lifestyles. Research even suggests that a family vacation could support your child's brain development. Just as important as the educational value of travel, of course, is its emotional value – family vacations can help foster strong family ties, and provide happy memories for your children to look back on in the future.

Many parents might only be comfortable taking older children on vacations, as they are easier to manage and more likely to retain memories of the experience. However, if you have an infant you would have to care for during your vacation, fret not – travel is still possible. Flying internationally or domestically is even an option for those with infants. Although airlines may allow infants aged 7 and above to fly, pediatricians recommend that parents wait for their infants to be at least 2 weeks of age. If you're travelling with an infant, much planning will be involved to ensure a safe and stress-free experience. Read on for tips on how to travel with infants and older children alike.

If you're looking for a stress-free getaway with the family, consider getting travel insurance. Whether you're travelling internationally or domestically, the Family Plan under Allianz Travel Care will protect you and your family in events of travel delays, luggage delays, theft of travel documents and much more.

Not all travel plans have to include children, of course – now and then, you might be called away for business, or you and your spouse might long for a romantic getaway sans the little ones. However, preparing your children for your absence can be a little daunting. Even when they're staying at home, your travel planning will have to revolve around their well-being.

Finally, when leaving your children to travel, it is important to acknowledge the possibility that anything that affects your well-being could happen to you. Consider preparing a will and establishing a guardianship plan for your children. Last, but not least, make sure you and your family are covered under life insurance which can help ensure that your children will continue to be protected, even if you encounter life's uncertainties.

1. References:

1. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/family-holidays/the-science-behind-how-holidays-make-your-child-happier-and-smarter/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/expert-answers/air-travel-with-infant/faq-20058539
3. http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/how-young-is-too-young/art/
4. https://www.malaysiaairlines.com/my/en/plan/special-needs/infant/infants.html