As a family deeply engaged in Club Volleyball, our travel schedule from December through April is demanding, with trips ranging from local competitions in Foley to regional tournaments in Dallas. This commitment to the sport consumes approximately 8 to 10 weekends during this period as we strive for excellence on the court and support our children’s passion for the game.
Traveling with sports teams for kids can be a fun and exciting experience for both the parents and the children. However, it also requires planning and preparation to ensure the trip runs smoothly.
Here are some tips for traveling with a sports team for kids:
Plan Ahead
Make sure you have a clear itinerary for the trip, including travel times, game schedules, and any other events or activities. This will help you prepare for contingencies and ensure everyone knows what to expect.
Pack the Essentials
Make sure that everyone has the essentials they need for the trip, including clothes, shoes, medications, and any other personal items. Don’t forget to bring all the necessary equipment and gear for games or competitions. Traveling a few hours away and then figuring out you forgot something is not fun. I suggest making a checklist ahead of time. We are freezing inside so we always bring extra blankets and layers. For outside sports, you may need things to keep you warm or cool, depending on the season. Sunscreen is a must for kids playing outdoor sports.
Communicate With the Team
Make sure everyone knows the rules and expectations for the trip. This includes things like curfews, dress codes, and behavior expectations. We have a lot of team luncheons or dinners for bonding time outside of the actual games. We try to make as many of these as possible.
Budget
Make sure you have a trip budget and that everyone knows the cost. This will help you prepare for unexpected expenses and ensure that everyone can participate without financial stress.
Safety
Make sure that everyone is aware of safety protocols and procedures. This includes things like emergency contact information, travel insurance, and what to do in case of an emergency.
Take Time to Enjoy It
Although the trip is primarily focused on sports, it’s important to take time to enjoy other activities and see the sights of the area you are visiting. This will allow everyone to bond and create lasting memories.
Remember Important Paperwork
Make sure you have all necessary paperwork in order, such as id’s, health insurance cards, consent forms, and any other document your travel organization or the destination may require.
Nutrition
Traveling can be exhausting, so it’s essential to fuel your child’s body with nutritious food to help them perform at their best. Consider packing healthy snacks and meals that are easy to transport, like fruits, nuts, and sandwiches.
Equipment Maintenance
Proper equipment maintenance can extend the life of your child’s gear and ensure that it functions properly. Encourage your child to clean and store their equipment properly after each game or practice.
Mental Health
Travel ball can be stressful, and it’s important to prioritize your child’s mental health. Encourage open communication, and check in with your child regularly to ensure they are feeling okay.
Following these tips can help ensure that your child’s sports team trip is safe, fun, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Remember to stay flexible, as things may not always go as planned, but by being well-prepared, you can adapt to unexpected situations.
Travel ball can be a great opportunity to make new friends and build relationships with teammates and coaches.
Encourage your child to be open and friendly and to take advantage of opportunities to connect with others. My brother played travel baseball over twenty years ago and is still friends with most of the kids on his team. It’s a way for your children to make lifelong friends.
