Let's be honest: Too often, "family vacation" means changing diapers in a new zip code while trying to keep everyone entertained. If you have ever come home more tired than when you left, needing a vacation from your vacation, this blog post is for you.
A real vacation should feel like a break from the daily grind, not just for the kids, but the whole family. Especially, for the one doing most of the work from vacation planning, ordering passports, packing, snack prepping and so much more (Yes, I see you Mom or Mr. Mom)
Here's how to plan a vacation that is truly relaxing, fun, and memorable for everyone.
After deciding, if you want a vacation domestic or abroad....
1. Choose a Destination That Does The Work FOR You.
Set a budget. Pick places where the fun is already built-in, so you're not juggling activities and logistics the entire time.
Great Options:
- All-inclusive resorts with kids/teen clubs and spa services.
- All inclusive Cruises that cater to infants, toddlers, kids, teens, and parents alike.
- Family-friendly hotels like theme park resorts, or Great Wolf Lodge......
These spots are designed for families, so you can focus on making memories instead of managing chaos.
2. Give Yourself/Yourselves a Break - ON PURPOSE
Parents deserve real down time, TOO.
Look for accommodations with:
- Supervised kid's/teen activities or babysitting services.
- Concierge Services
- Adult ONLY spaces like spas, lounges or quiet pools and whirlpools or sunset boat cruises.
- Flexible schedules, so you can relax while the kids are occupied.
- Take Turns Getting Solo Time: It's good for your sanity and your relationship.
3. Leave the Chores at Home
You didn't travel all this way to cook and do laundry. Choose options that let you actually take a break.
- Opt for hotels/resorts that include meals, amenities and concierge services. If you prefer to rent a VRBO, ask your VRBO manager, if for a little extra, he could have his cleaning service take care of all the cleaning and laundry while you are out for the day.
- Skip vacation rentals, instead opt for airport to and from hotel transport services and tours and excursions that depart from your hotel.
4. Prioritize Shared Fun Over Split Duties
Instead of always dividing and conquering, plan experiences you can enjoy as a group and avoid meltdowns.
- Beach days with sandcastle contests and boogie boarding.
- Animal encounters or nature trail hikes at national parks like Yellowstone or Custer State Park (2 of my favorites) ...
- Pool games, miniature golf, arcades, movie nights or family karaoke "Dad, you suck" LOL,
Whatever it is you choose to do, remember, the best moments come when you are all in it TOGETHER!!!
5. Plan Just Enough (But NOT Too Much)
Avoid the over-scheduled vacation trap. One main activity per day is, usually, enough.
Pro tips:
- Leave space in the day for snacks, naps and flexibility.
- Let the kids partake in picking activities - it keeps everyone invested
- Don't be afraid to do nothing for a while (that's all part of the vacation magic)
6. Work with a Travel Advisor (Like ME!!!)
You may plan a vacation once or twice a year, travel advisors do it all year around. We are the travel experts. I help busy families find the perfect destination, plan stress-free vacations and get the best deals - without the overwhelm.
I can help you with:
- Custom recommendations and itineries, based on your family's needs and wants.
- Booking everything from flights to stroller rentals and I will even help you find the perfect pet sitter for your pets while you're out of town!!! (No One Left Behind)
- Managing the details so you can just show up and enjoy.
- And God forbid, should you run into any problems while on vacation, I troubleshoot and solve whatever issue you may be faced with. Think of me as your little "Travel Fairy"
And best yet, it doesn't cost you a dime to work with me.
Final Thought:
The perfect family vacation isn't about packing every minute with activities. It is about being together, spending quality time with your loved ones, feeling relaxed, and creating lifelong memories. Let go of the pressure to do it all and embrace the joy of simply being.
Ready to Plan your next family vacation?
Contact me, today, and make this your best vacation, yet.
Add comment
Comments