So, you have your heart set on the digital nomad lifestyle with your little adventurers in tow. Remote work combined with travel certainly sounds appealing, but taking the kids along does add some new layers of planning and logistics. In this guide, we'll break down how to set up a flexible routine, pack smartly, choose family-friendly destinations, and keep the whole crew entertained while still getting your work done. By following some basic best practices, you can ease the stresses of life on the road and focus on making memories with your little ones.
Pre-Trip Preparations
One of the most important things to do before your remote work and travel adventure is to set clear expectations with your kids. Sit down together and outline the schedule you'll aim to follow each day. Explain that homework, chores, and quiet solo work time will still be part of the plan. However, also reassure them that you'll build in lots of opportunities for fun exploration and bonding time as a family. Creating structure will help kids feel secure in the change of scenery. Be sure to lay out rules for behavior at new destinations too.
Packing Strategically
In addition, it's crucial to pack efficiently for life on the road with kids. Only take what you'll genuinely need and use frequently to avoid excess baggage fees and clutter in your accommodations. In addition to clothing and gear for activities, don't forget chargers, medicine, familiar comfort items from home for the kids, and quiet solo toys or books for plane rides and down time. Download movies, playlists and audiobooks in advance too. By packing strategically, you'll set yourself up for a smooth travels experience.
Choosing Family-Friendly Locations
With preparations made, it's time to start researching possible destinations for your remote work and family adventure. When selecting spots, prioritize locations with plenty of options to keep little ones engaged and entertained between your work sessions. National parks, beaches, children's museums, zoos, aquariums, hands-on science centers, and botanical gardens make great choices.
In addition, aim for locations with easy access to kid-friendly cafes and restaurants, convenient and affordable accommodations, and childcare options if needed for workdays. With these priorities in mind, here are a few top family-friendly remote work and travel destination ideas:
Boulder, Colorado: This vibrant city is nestled against the stunning Rocky Mountains. Outdoor activities abound from hiking and rock climbing to paddling on nearby lakes. Boulder is also a cultural hub with a children’s museum, art museum, hiking trails right in town and family-oriented cafes. The climate is generally mild too.
Austin, Texas: As a arts and tech center with a thriving remote working scene, Austin is very welcoming to families. Top family attractions include the Austin Nature & Science Center, swim with manatees at the Wildlife Rescue Center, and extensive green spaces like swim beaches on Lady Bird Lake. Don't forget to check out live music too!
Charleston, South Carolina: Historic Charleston and surrounding Lowcountry have something for everyone. Popular kid spots include the Charleston Museum, South Carolina Aquarium, and going kayaking in the wetlands. Families can also stroll through lush waterfront parks while learning about the city's rich past. And the food is beyond compare.
Puerto Rico: For a remote work adventure with a tropical twist, consider Puerto Rico. Rincón on the west coast is a top wellness and surf destination with family-friendly beaches, hiking, and watersports. elsewhere, attractions include the BioBay bioluminescent bay, El Yunque Rainforest hiking, and historic Old San Juan. Weather is warm all year with weekly remote working ease.
Work-Life Balance on the Road
Now that you’re set up at your destination of choice, the real work begins - both paid employment work and keeping the whole family happily occupied each day. Here are some tips for maintaining a productive routine and balanced workload while traveling remotely with children:
- Create a dedicated workspace, even if just a spot at a local cafe, coffee shop or co-working space a few days a week to separate “work time” from “family time”.
- Schedule blocks of solo work time without distractions interspersed with lunch breaks, mini field trips and play sessions to recharge.
- Involve kids in low-key chores or activities like coloring during phone or video meetings to keep tiny hands busy.
- Use a visual daily schedule your kids can reference to know when work is happening and when you’ll be available.
- Make use of rainy day supplies, books, drawing materials and educational apps or shows stored on devices.
- Tap into local kid programs, excursions or childcare options on harder work focused days.
- Expect some flexibility - its okay to work from the park one afternoon if the kids are having fun.
- Build in dedicated family adventures, outings and cultural experiences to break up the daily routine.
With a solid routine and open communication about expectations, you'll be able to focus on the work at hand while still prioritizing bonding time with your little travel buddies. Remote living on the road with kids takes some planning but is absolutely achievable.
Fun Educational Excursions
While it's important to still focus on schoolwork, try to emphasize learning through interactive real-world experiences during your remote family adventure as well. Here are some suggestions for hands-on educational outings you can incorporate into your destination's activities:
- Nature hikes led by park rangers focusing on local flora and fauna identification.
- Cooking or craft classes teaching science concepts like chemistry in the kitchen or weaving with plant-based dyes.
- Interactive history museum programs bringing the past to life for young learners.
- Boat tours highlighting the area's ecosystem from the water and pointing out different species of fish and birds.
- Local children's attractions with exhibits exploring the area's culture, industry or climate.
- Stop by your accommodation's visitor center or ask the concierge for events and programs happening during your stay.
Getting the whole family involved in hands-on learning makes it stick better than school-style lectures. Plus it provides fresh memories to look back on from your remote work travel adventure. With some planning, you can maximize educational experiences alongside the fun.
Tips for Travel Days and Transportation
Ensuring Kids are Comfortable Getting from A to B
Even with the best laid plans, travel days and modes of transportation can be stressful aspects of remote work and family travel. To set kids at ease, consider these preparation strategies:
- Pack small backpack “entertainment kits” with familiar toys, books, headphones and tablets preloaded with movies for airplane rides or car trips.
- Bring laminated activity sheets, small dry erase boards, coloring books and crayons to occupy curious minds.
- Use motion sickness bands or wrist bands, travel sickness medicines as needed as prevention.
- Keep snacks on hand to keep energy up and hunger at bay throughout longer travel days
- Allow extra time for airport check-ins, security and boarding to avoid rushed feeling
- Consider car or van rentals to maximize kid comfort, car seats and cargo space for necessities
- Sitting close together can help timid flyers feel more secure during take offs and landings.
With a little forethought put toward transportation needs, you can help make each journey there a pleasant memory of the greater trip as well. Smooth travels are key when remote working on the road with kids!
Conclusion
So, to wrap up - taking your remote work life on the road with children is absolutely possible with preparation, clear communication and a flexible mindset. Focus on pre-trip logistics like scheduling, packing efficiently and choosing family-centric destinations. Then use tested strategies like establishing daily routines, prioritizing work-life balance and incorporating educational activities to set your whole crew up for success.
If issues arise, don't forget to approach challenges positively and make adjustments along the way. With openness and teamwork, you can pull off a meaningful family remote work travel adventure. Safe travels!