Birthdays on travel are not ideal but sometimes, in order to include those that we care about most in the celebration, we have to plan the festivities while on vacation with those people.
So how does one pull off a birthday party while on travel? The good news is, you can still have fun with a party theme, manage a lovely cake, presents and the whole traditional experience if you’d like. Here are some tips for making it work.
Keep the Plan Simple
By keeping the overall plan of the event simple, you will avoid being overwhelmed by the details. Include all the traditional elements of a great birthday party but scale them back from what you might do otherwise. Order the cake and food, choose decor items that you can pack in a suitcase and limit the presents you have for opening.
Plan Decor Ahead of Time
Believe it or not, having decorations is completely possible while having an on-the-go birthday party if you give it some thought in advance, keep it somewhat simple and you make the items easily packable.
For example, the theme featured in the main photo was executed at a family beach house that they rent each summer. It was for a first birthday party with a nautical theme that included handmade origami sailboats colored by the older cousins, a net, seashells and cupcakes from a local bakery.
The cake stand came with a relative who drove to the vacation spot. They had a birthday sign hanging on the highchair and the birthday boy wore a fun bib that said “Mr. One-derful”. It was simple, yet festive and all done while on travel.
Making Gift Shipping Plans in Advance
Have a plan to send gifts to the location and for getting them home again. If a family member is driving to and from the vacation location, you can task them with shipping your gifts home to you.
If you want to ensure your child or family member has a gift to open from you but you are flying, have the gift shipped in advance to the hotel or to a family member who is driving and wrap it once you arrive. By planning this in advance, you can still incorporate gift giving into the event – which if you are celebrating a child’s birthday,then it’s a vital part of the planning. A kids party isn’t complete without presents!
Research Bakeries
Having a plan for cupcakes or a cake in advance is key and requires doing a simple online search. Check out local bakeries near your hotel or vacation rental home and have your order set in advance of your travel date.
Or, keep it even simpler and pick up a pre-made cake at a local grocery store the day of the event and have them write the name of the birthday guest of honor at that time.
Having the family help with decorations and food will make the event run smoother, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. This is especially fun when you have extended family around and you allow the cousins to help with decor options.
Be O.K. with Catered or Pre-made Food
Keep it simple and pick up food that is pre-made so you can still enjoy the relaxation mantra that is the usual goal while on vacation. Pre-made trays and salads will ensure you can still enjoy your quality family time while celebrating the big event and if you’re looking to make the event a little swanky – research caterers to prepare a nice menu.
Birthdays on travel can work and it doesn’t necessarily have to be a meal at a restaurant. Keep the tips above in mind and you’ll have a great celebration away from home.
Image: article author
