Kid-centered theme parks like Disney World are an obvious choice for a family vacation, but they aren't the only option. You could travel to visit family in another city, take a trip to the beach or explore a historic location. Look for destinations that are relatively close to your home, whether you choose to drive or fly. Additionally, choose a hotel that has kid-centered activities, like a pool or video-game console in the room.
When traveling with preschoolers, it's important to make a thorough list of the items you might need. Remember that kids this age are prone to accidents, so you may need a few extra changes of clothes. Child-sized suitcases can be tempting, giving your child a sense of responsibility, but carrying around may be too much. Instead, pack most of your child's clothes in your suitcases. You can use the child-sized suitcase to pack items for the trip, like books, games and a stuffed animal.
Dress comfortably for the trip, wearing loose-fitting clothing that's breathable. A long journey can be boring for a preschooler, so bring plenty of distractions. You might bring movies and a portable DVD player, books, games and other favorite toys. Aside from this, you can plan other games, like looking for the letters of the alphabet in signs or trying to find a license plate from each of the 50 states.
Preschoolers are often creatures of routine, so a change of routine can cause troubles. Remember that your child needs rest, so don't try to pack too much into a day. Whenever possible, stick to your usual routine -- waking up at the same time, eating the same foods, scheduling nap or quiet time and getting to bed at a reasonable hour. This can make the trip more enjoyable for everyone involved.
