First of all, we call it a “vacation,” but if you’re parent, it isn’t going to be one. Maybe I was slow, but it took me quite a while to figure out that I, parent (and a single-parent at that), was going to work even harder on a vacation than at home, and that it wouldn’t be a relaxing time for me. After all, I was taking boys to new places where they would be full of new ideas, and it always required more supervision than at home. As soon as we hit beach, outrageous demands began. One ran one way, other another. Being in a new place, they weren’t sure what rules were, and they had to be re-established. Being around new things, they weren’t always as cautious as they should be, and I had to be vigilant. They got sick, got fishing hooks in their thumbs, stepped on man-o-wars, rental car got a flat, resort room’s air conditioning broke and we had to pack up and change rooms, and more than once someone was throwing up all night long. While we always had a wonderful time, and I always returned happy (and of course kids did), I often returned more tired than when I’d left!

I began to name these “The Kids’ Vacations,” just so I kept my expectations in line with reality, and to plan vacation-vacations for myself – getaways where I could relax in ways I needed to. The Kids’ Vacations were for having fun as a family! And kids don’t need a “vacation.” They’re always high energy and on-the-go, yes?

Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan and take family vacation that can keep you from unrealistic expectations which will erode your experience:

1.Kids are likely to become more boisterous on a vacation, because of all new fun things. New experiences and new situations will present things they haven’t encountered before, so you have to be on guard about their safety on a constant basis. Try and GO rested; don’t plan on COMING HOME rested. 2.Think of it as a fun adventure for family where you get to know one another better and spend time together under new circumstances. Then whatever happens will fall in line.

3.There are more options all time where childcare is also available. Many resorts and cruise lines offer programs for children and teens that provide great activities, supervision, and a chance for them to make new friends, while giving you some adult time to yourself. Consider this option.

4.Consider bringing along a mother’s helper, or older niece or nephew, or willing grandmother to help with children.

What steps are necessary to prevent these things from happening? How can you take care of your passport? Below are 16 practical tips you can follow to acquire your passport, keep it in your possession, and preserve it in good condition.

Before You Leave On Your Trip

1. Check to see if you even need a passport.

Countries can, and often do, change foreign entry requirements. If you arrive at airport without required documents, you'll be denied boarding privileges. And, of course, this isn't covered by travel insurance.

Currently, more than 80% of world's countries require a valid passport for entrance. It's important to verify foreign entry requirements for country you plan to visit as early as possible.

2. Apply for your passport early.

You should apply for a new passport at least 90 days before your departure date. For a renewal, begin process 8 to 11 months before your passport expires. Why so early? Many countries require that your passport have six to eight months of validity remaining before they will issue a visa.

3. Fill out correct form correctly.

Each type of passport service has specific criteria that must be met. Make sure you get right application form, and then fill it in carefully. Double-check each entry. Ask a friend or relative to verify it as well. Errors made on application form can lead to delays or, even, rejection of your passport request.

4. Follow specifications for required documents exactly.

When applying for a new passport, most frequently used documents are a certified birth certificate for proof of citizenship along with a valid driver's license for proof of identity.

Your birth certificate must be a certified copy with a registrar's raised, embossed, impressed, or multicolored seal, registrar's signature, and date certificate was filed with registrar's office, which must be within 1 year of your birth. No photocopies are accepted. Your driver's license must be more than six months old.

For a passport renewal, your previous passport serves as both proof of citizenship and proof of identity. To be valid, it cannot be mutilated, altered, or damaged in any way.

You must send two identical passport photos taken within last 6 months. These passport photos must be 2"x2" with a plain white or off-white background. They have to be a full-face view with head being from 1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head. The photos can be either color or black and white.

5. Sign both passport application form and your check.

Surprisingly, many people forget to sign either passport application form or their check to Passport Services. Once again, check everything twice, or even three times.

6. Request additional pages.

Are you a frequent flyer? Request a 48-page passport (at no additional cost). It will allow you to travel more before having to replace it.

7. Sign your passport and fill out emergency information.