Whether you’re an iPhone addict or an Android devotee, apps can be your best friend on the road or when getting ready for your next family jaunt. Here are some of the most helpful:
Even the best of the potty-trained have accidents, but it’s easier to prevent them with Bathroom Scout, which lists more than 1.3 million restrooms worldwide (including public bathrooms, restaurants and other facilities). Turn-by-turn navigation makes it easy, and with street view, take a look around to see if it’s clean and safe for little ones to wee easily.
Those who’ve been stuck in an airport due to travel delays or a canceled connection know camping out on a cot isn’t much fun. But with kids — impossible. HotelTonight is a godsend for those looking for last-minute lodging, and it’s super easy to use. See locations on a map, read about on-site meals available and find bed configurations (amenities list crib and pet-friendly, for instance). Hotels compete for a spot on the app and only the best value and experience make the cut for sometimes hundreds off.
The surest way to prevent cranky kiddos is making sure they’re well fed. And while it may be easy to grab a snack on the street, sometimes Mom and Dad need real silverware, too. With OpenTable, search a vast network of restaurants categorized under kid-friendly, healthy, quick bite and more, all listed by price point, proximity and open table times. Plus, earn points that can be redeemed anywhere when accrued at eateries around the globe.
JeFile
This new app puts a spin on the Disney FastPass+ idea for universal admission and it’s available in eight languages. Just chose a preferred time to visit locations like Notre Dame towers and you get automatic entry without waiting in line. Reservations are day-of only starting at 7:30 a.m. for same-day attraction visits.
Those planning their own trips know getting around once there is half the battle. Rome2Rio offers help comparing bus, train, car, ferry, bike options and more in one search in cities around the globe, and even works offline if WiFi is spotty (you have access to view previous searches).
Age-Specific
Not using your phone as a GPS? Then hand it (or your iPad) over to Junior to keep him busy in the backseat. Some of the age-specific winners include the “Reading Rainbow” series for the iPad and Kindle, about 600 books appropriate for ages 1–4 kids can listen to or read themselves (yes, LeVar Burton makes an appearance as a guide and in in-app videos). Kids ages 5–8 will enjoy “Toca Life: Vacation,” with customizable characters, where every day is a holiday adventure. Building a sand castle, rushing through the airport to catch a flight or jumping on a hotel bed are all in store.
White Noise
Noise from the next room getting you down? Don’t have time to sing a lullaby? Want to set an alternate alarm time? White Noise can do it all. Create your own sound or download sounds, or simply transport yourself from the jungle to the beach to the campfire with its crackling flames to set the right tone for your little one’s — or your own — sweet dreams.
Packing is stressful in and of itself, but packing for a family? Brutal! Save time with Packr, which compiles lists based on destination cities, countries or regions, along with travel dates and your planned activities to keep all bags 50 pounds or less (or, 20 kilograms if you’re headed across the pond).
Read This Next
Travel Sustainably with BWH Hotels
Multigenerational
Apr 22, 2024#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedNorth America
Apr 25, 2024Discover 5 of the Best Hotels Near National Parks
If your family travel happens to take you to a national park, look no further than the list of hotels below.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Slideshow
Apr 25, 20247 Curaçao Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Curaçao with us.
Travel Tips
Apr 25, 2024Protect Family Trips with Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
Summer family travel is quickly approaching. Where is your family headed? A Forbes Travel Advisor study recently found the cost of travel for a family of four for a three-night stay with airfare averaged about $3,600. Protect your family travel spending with Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, offering a variety of travel insurance packages tailored to all types of travel.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Destinations / Africa
Apr 24, 2024Enjoy an African Beach Safari with Jek Tours and Safaris
An African safari is a dream vacation for many. For family travelers, it is a great way to introduce the kids to a lifestyle in which people coexist compassionately with the world around them. Not everyone is looking for the same experience, so choosing the right safari for the family is an important decision when planning your vacation.
ShareThis