Family vacations can create enduring, treasured memories, and they are also a great way to unwind from the daily grind of work and school. If you’re planning a summer trip to the ocean, or a winter ski trip up in the mountains, you want to enjoy the time spent on your family vacation.
Just like when you’re car shopping and looking for a new Ford for sale, or looking to move house, taking the time to plan for your family vacation is the first step in making it a trip to remember. Here are five things you should try when readying for your vacation.
1. Plan in Extra Time
Everything always takes longer than you expect, especially if you have kids. Don’t let the stress of a time crunch overshadow the fun you can have on vacation. Planning ahead for more time than you think you’ll need is a great way to ensure you aren’t rushing to the airport check-in or trying to beat rush hour traffic.
If you’re flying, schedule at least a few extra hours to account for delays, getting through security, and picking up your luggage upon arrival.
2. Have A Shared Vision
If your goal on a family vacation is to spend quality time with each other, it helps to know what everyone wants out of the trip. Having a discussion with your family before your vacation and understanding what everyone hopes to do can avoid conflict down the line and help everyone have a great time.
Perhaps, for example, you want a day by the pool or at the spa, your partner would love an afternoon on one of these Tamarindo fishing charters, and the kids more than anything want an afternoon at the local water park. You can easily fit all these activities into your vacation if you so desire, though there may need to be compromises along the way. It can be worth explaining this to everyone so they all understand that not every day will be something they desperately want to do, but it will be fun and enjoyable all the same. When approaching the planning of any activities, be sure to do so with care to guarantee you all have an excellent time, no matter what you choose to do each day.
3. Pack Your Bags Well
Luggage is a hassle no matter how short or long your vacation is, but it doesn’t have to be a stress point with a little planning. Make sure everyone has their own suitcase or travel bag and use ID tags to label everything.
Of course, you don’t want to over-pack and get stuck with too much luggage you don’t need. Make a list of what clothing and necessities each person needs ahead of time, to make packing easier.
You might also consider a shared travel bag that has extra phone chargers, socks, hairbands, facial tissue, OTC pain meds, and other necessities in case someone forgets something.
4. Book Ahead
Whenever possible, book hotel rooms, flights, cabs, and other travel and overnight accommodations well in advance, and have a backup plan if something goes awry.
Many airlines allow you to check in electronically ahead of time, as do many hotels. Downloading apps specific to the airline or hotel chain you’re staying with can make it much easier to check in and get assistance right from the convenience of your phone.
5. Stay Up to Date
Wherever you’re traveling, you will want to check ahead of time if there are any mandates for vaccinations or other safety protocols and plan accordingly. Make sure everyone has appropriate documents, and for kids, make sure they each have parental contact information and emergency contact numbers. Find an accident attorney from Accident.com and keep them in mind if the unexpected happens.
Use These 5 Tips on Your Next Family Vacation!
Planning a family vacation can be a lot of work, but it’s well worth it to spend quality time with the people you love. These five tips can help your family create new and fantastic memories for years to come.
We are not lawyers and this is in no way intended to be used as legal advice . We cannot be held responsible for your results. Always do your own research and seek professional legal help.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.