5 Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling With Your Family With Chase Freedom Unlimited

This post was made in collaboration with Chase Freedom Unlimited. All opinions are my own.

About six months ago, we decided to start spending more time together traveling as a family. From day trips to flying across the country, we have loved intentionally growing together while exploring the world around us. Of course, we have found some hidden gems and made our share of mistakes along the way. If you're planning your next family trip, here are five mistakes that we think are vital to avoid when you’re traveling with kids.

Mistake 1: Heading Straight to the Sugar Snack Aisle
It's always tempting to grab the sweetest treat in the candy aisle, but one thing we have noticed lately is that more and more roadside stores are offering fresh fruit, healthy snacks, and better choices. Cheesy puffs might be what your kids are begging for, but grabbing snacks such as trail mix or beef jerky will do a better job of filling your family up, and will give everyone the energy to make it through a jam packed travel day.

Mistake 2: Not Using Rewards or Taking Advantage of all the Benefits of Your Cash Back Credit Card
It's easy to miss paying attention to the fine print on your credit card, but some cards include cash rewards and benefits while you travel. My Chase Freedom Unlimited card allows me to earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase. So, whether I'm stopping for coffee on the way to work, getting my kids' haircuts on the weekend, or buying breakfast while on our latest family trip, I'm always earning on every purchase, bringing me one step closer to my goal of taking my next family trip!

The most important tip is to check your card to first make sure you have one that gives you the best rewards, and also that you are actually taking advantage of the rewards and incentives it offers.

Mistake 3: Only Bringing Screens for Entertainment
Phones and tablets are definitely the easiest form of entertainment on a trip, however, they shouldn't be the only form. We have learned to let our kids pack their own backpacks full of toys and books because we have mandatory "no screen time" during certain parts of plane and car rides.

We have also found that for younger kids, a trip to the local dollar store is well worth it. Coloring and activity books can be secretly stuffed into carry-on bags and can provide a great deal of "no screen fun." Tupperware containers can also be filled with small building block toys. The container helps prevent them from spilling everywhere and can be sealed up quickly when needed.

Mistake 4: Forgetting to Plan Flex Time into Your Trip
While I love planning the details of a trip, this is usually the thing I leave out. I forget that while you are on your journey to get somewhere special, there are usually amazing memories waiting to be had at those roadside stands, local restaurants, and historic attractions. However, if you don't plan in extra time, you could be driving right on by the stop that you will be talking about for years.

Mistake 5. Trying Too Hard to Get Your Money's Worth Out of the Day
I'll admit it, when I go on vacation, I go hard. If I'm left alone to plan a day, we are moving from meals to waterfalls, then to museums, and on, and on. Who needs rest? Not us! But traveling like this can cause nuclear level meltdowns and days can come to a screeching halt. Not to mention that when you get home, you'll need a vacation from your vacation. Instead, I've learned to block out time each day to relax or at least take a break. This way your family can recharge and be ready to conquer the remainder of your plans!

As you know, traveling with kids takes energy, money, and a readiness to have fun. So, plan your time wisely, make good choices on snacks, and remember to take advantage of your cash back credit card!