A family vacation can be a great opportunity for members of a family to bond while spending quality time together away from home and creating unforgettable memories. A great family vacation can become something you all reminisce and laugh about at the dinner table even after many years past.
But planning a vacation that everyone in your family will love is no easy feat. A lot goes into planning, from considering everyone’s interest to picking the right destination and planning the logistics.
If you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help you. Here are some great tips to help you plan the perfect family trip.
Tips to Help You Plan the Best Family Vacation
Planning a fantastic family trip boils down to three very important considerations:
- Consider your options
- Consider your travel logistics
- Consider various family activities
Consider Your Options
The first thing you want to do is consider different options. Since this is a family thing, it’s best to get everyone involved. It doesn’t make much of a family vacation without an inclusive itinerary.
Ask important questions like, what’s your idea of a perfect family vacation? Where would you like to go? What would you like to do? Consider activities that you all enjoy doing together as a family and find out whether everyone would like to try something new. Jot your answers down on a piece of paper and you all can use the list to decide on the best place to plan your vacation.
Also, consider how much you’re willing to spend. If you’re on a budget, it might be best to pick a local destination rather than going international. Also, when making your plans, think about the types of transportation, accommodation, food, and entertainment you can afford for the whole family.
You also want to consider the best time of the year to plan your vacation. Summer is typically the most popular and most convenient time to plan a family vacation but it’s also one of the most expensive times to travel. Other options include spring break, thanksgiving, and winter holidays. Ordinarily, it’s easier to get better travel deals when it’s not a holiday season.
Consider Your Travel Logistics
If your vacation destination isn’t too far, a road trip might be a great and cheap option. Although traveling on the road for long hours can be tiring, especially for kids, it can also be a fun sightseeing experience. But, ensure that everyone uses the bathroom before you hit the road. Also, ensure to stop the car every few hours for bathroom and meal breaks. Everyone can also seize the opportunity to stretch their legs.
If you’re traveling by air, it’s best to purchase all tickets at least 6 weeks ahead of time so that you can get cheaper deals. You can compare different airlines’ prices to see which is better for you. Also, bear in mind that weekend flights are usually more expensive than weekday flights.
You should also consider your accommodation. Check out different hotels, resorts, and rental home options. Consider what they offer, and where they are located, and compare their prices when making your decision.
Consider Various Family Activities
Create a flexible activity schedule. Just because something is on the agenda doesn’t mean you must do it. Kids change their minds all the time. If your kid decides they don’t want to do something, don’t force them.
Yes, we know it’s a family vacation but it doesn’t make it a must that you do all activities together. Everyone may not be into the same things. So, sometimes, it might be okay to break up into little groups for a while and let everyone do something they’re interested in. You might even find a perfect opportunity for you and your partner to spend some quality time together while the kids are hanging out with their peers.
Remember to not pack too many activities into one day. You’re there to have fun and relax, not stress yourselves out. Make sure your daily schedule includes plenty of time for relaxation.