Their Ultimate Summer
It’s summer time! And you know what that means? Lot’s and lots of time outside, at the pool, and working on those tan lines, maybe at your nearest waterpark? The family and I have plans to visit water parks, lakes, theme parks, and more to make those summer memories with the girls this year. Starting with a trip to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels! I thought I’d put together a list to help you plan your next family trip, and help you get through a day with your toddlers while still have a blast.
Plan Ahead
I can’t stress this enough. Plan, plan, plan. I will make a list of all the things we may need before any big trip, that way both my husband and I can pack together and check again in the morning before we leave. There’s nothing worse than making a list and STILL forgetting something on it. So we make sure to do it the night before, and just go through it again before we leave the house. Team work, makes the dream work.
Research park rules
This step may be needed before you pack your bags for your trip to the waterpark. Make sure anything on your list is not a banned item at the park. You may want to double check any restrictions on coolers, floats, or if proper shoes are needed in the park. Swimwear may also not be appropriate at every part of the park, depending on where you go. As the Covid restrictions have lifted in Texas, parks are taking it day by day on their Covid rules. Rules are changing often, so make sure to give their website a quick glance before your trip. Masks were still required in certain areas of the park, and on buses routing from one side of the park to the other. If you have never visited the park, also check if it is a stroller friendly park, or if you’ll even need one. In our case a stroller was not needed.
Pack the Essentials
It’s probably a no brainer. But plan to bring some sunscreen, towels, and a change of clothes for your littles. I highly recommend getting disposable swimming diapers if your littles are still in them! And bring extra just in case. If the waterpark allows you to bring your own food and drink, bring it! You can save so much money by bringing your own treats and water! I always bring a wet bag for clothing, and an extra set of clothes in general should they have any accidents. When it comes to your devices, I recommend a sealable bag for your phone. I have one that I purchased at the park and I plan to use it on our next water park trip as well. It can be hung from your neck for safe keeping.
Take breaks
Take breaks! The girls needed a constant reminder to slow down and rehydrate. Make sure they are getting plenty of liquids, potty breaks, and retouched on sunscreen every two hours. If you are lucky enough to rent a Ca-Bahn-A/Cabana at the waterpark, I say go for it. It seriously makes things so much easier and is a nice break from the crowds. You have a personal area to sit and eat or just relax in the shade. They also have lockers available to store your items. But if you are lugging in a big bag full of necessities it may not fit in one. If you rent a Cabana they also have a server who will get your food for you, instead of having to wait in any lines. Big bags can also be left out (at your discretion) at a Cabana as the servers usually watch over the area. So if you can’t fit your bag in a locker you are free to leave it out.
Have Fun
And my last tip, Have fun! Remember this trip is all about having fun with your family. It may not go perfectly as planned, but really as parents we should all know that by now. It’s all about the experience, the memories, and seeing those big smiles on your kids faces. Enjoy the water, stay cool, and enjoy the experience! Let me know which of these tips was the most helpful in the comments below, and if you have any trips planned this summer.
