Gifts for life: travel wonders

It would come as no surprise to anyone that we at Purposit are huge fans of travelling for children and adults.

When I look back at my childhood, vacations and travelling are among the most cherished experiences and memories I have.

One of the greatest benefits of travel is that these are not individual memories. They are all linked to and associated with the people we spent that trip with. From priceless memories with my mum and dad to fun trips with friends in my teens, every time I think about those I have a big smile on my face.

It’s also one of the most powerful bonding exercises for families. It’s usually a time when we put our issues, problems, concerns and struggles aside and can enjoy each others companies and explore a new locale together, with a lighter, refreshingly more positive perspective.

Intuitively, most people would agree that travelling is a positive, enriching experience that helps reduce stress and strengthen the bond among family members. But what does science have to say about that?

I recently read some articles from child psychotherapist Dr Margot Sunderland, who has written extensively on this very topic for the Telegraph. She explains that travelling and vacations help children with brain and cognitive development Being in a different environment or setting with family also activates the right neurochemicals which reduce stress and make children – and adults alike – warmer towards each other. For me, that sounds a great way to recharge and also to reduce child anxiety.

While travelling is not the cheapest experience, parents can be creative. A budget camping trip or a caravan park can already do wonders, and in many cases, be more memorable than a costly trip. The beauty is that your kids will be more likely to have fun sleeping on a tent, eating marshmallows and telling stories around the fire pit that staying a big, expensive hotel.

I know mamas – you are shacking your heads in disapproval. We all love a little treat like a massage or simply not having to cook breakfast for the kiddos. But for those more expensive routes and travels, a little planning can make all the difference.

And these days, with super smart apps like Purposit (oh yes!!) you can start raising funds for a nice family trip, a gateway for the kids or a gap year for your teenager. After all, travelling is the gift that keeps on giving, as the memories last, and last, and last.

What about you? What would be your ultimate family holiday or most treasured travel experience?

To your child’s future,

x Johanna