Going to an all-inclusive Mexican resort was one of our favorite trips as a family. We wanted everything to go as smoothly as possible. There were things that helped us, but there also were a few things I wish I had known beforehand.
Here are five useful hacks I learned from my first all-inclusive vacation with kids!
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1. Ditch Nap Schedules
I know this sounds crazy, but don't stress over making your kids sleep. Sure, naps help prevent tantrums due to them being overly tired and keep kids sleeping at the right time. And OK, they also allow you a little bit of quietness and give you some time and space to decompress and relax.
But on the first couple of days of our vacation, as hard as I tried, the nap schedule just didn't work for us. It was the longest flight our daughter had been on, so she was all wound up from the new experience. The stress of sticking to a nap schedule defeated its purpose.
By the third day, I gave up. I ditched the nap schedule and felt an immense sense of freedom. I let the beach, sun, and water wear her down. By the end of each night, everyone was pooped.
2. Travel With Another Family
We traveled with my parents and my sister's family. There were a bunch of us, and the ratio between adults and kids was perfect. If you can find another family to travel with, do it. The extra set of eyes is incredibly helpful.
For instance, I can't remember how many times I forgot to get our hats, shades, and sunscreen. My sister, brother-in-law, mom, or dad would watch our daughter while I quickly ran back to our room to get them.
You can also offer to trade watching each other's kids while you and your partner grab a meal together or do an excursion. It will feel a little more like a vacation and give you a chance to reconnect.
Lastly, having other kids around to play with yours helps keep them entertained while you order that piña colada.
3. Pack Your Own Beach Entertainment
We knew there would be a beach and we assumed the hotel would have beach toys ready and available for us to use. However, that was not the case. Thankfully, my seasoned sister brought hers and shared them with us. A few buckets, shovels, and toys will go a long way to keeping everyone amused.
Plus, you'll get to rest while the kids keep busy digging a hole and covering you up with sand. It's like getting a natural skin exfoliating treatment.
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4. Look at Kids Club Information Beforehand
Some family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts have a kids club that offers child care and excursions. This is often included in your package, so be sure to use it.
Check out the schedule online and whether you're required to register beforehand. Sometimes, they set a capacity limit on a first-come first-serve basis, so sign up for special activities in advance so you don't miss out.
5. Bring Extras of Important Things
Hats, sunscreen, diapers, wipes, sunglasses, a few games, and toys are crucial items to pack. Unfortunately, if you run out of something, it will probably cost you an arm and a leg to buy at the gift shop. That's what happened to us.
We thought we packed enough diapers for our daughter, but with all the different foods and water activities we were trying, we were completely out by the last day. My sister's kids are all potty-trained.
Thankfully, I chatted with a fellow mom with a son the same age as our daughter. She gave us some of her diapers, and we were able to make it back home without any accidents.
