Family vacations are treasured memories that last a lifetime. However, travel can also be stressful. You can avoid some of the squabblings and whining that inevitably occurs, with good planning and consideration of each member’s needs.
Here are four tips to make family vacations more enjoyable for everyone.
Let All Age Groups Have Input on Activities
When planning a trip, involve every family member in activity planning and deciding which attraction you will see. In this way, each individual will have something to look forward to, and you can avoid complaints from family members during vacations.
Include each person’s unique interests and likes, with understanding so others have the same opportunity to enjoy what they like.
Keep in mind that if you have children in different age groups you will need to accommodate for those interests. Talk with your older children about being patient with the younger kids and being supportive of their interests and desires.
Journal the Trip Together
Invite all members of the family to contribute to a “travel journal” of the trip, with photos, drawings, stories and mementos that will be included. This action will encourage both children and adults to stay in the moment of the journey, collecting experiences as they go.
Working on the journal during your family vacations will also give you time to do a relaxing activity together, instead of feeling the rush to hurry from one exciting spot to the next.
Schedule Periods of Downtime
Younger members of your travel group may require stricter adherence to a schedule to be comfortable and happy on the journey. Older children may need some playtime to burn off physical energy.
To make your family vacations more enjoyable, allow your teens to check out from being with their family and check-in with their friends. Adults benefit from a bit of quiet time to read, check email or just to relax.
Changes in eating and sleeping schedules can make people cranky and irritable. Scheduling downtime for each day can help to keep travelers in a better mood and will make the experience more enjoyable for all.
Pack Your Technology Carefully
Various types of devices and technology have now become essential items for any travel adventure. Even very young children have become accustomed to wiling away the time with streaming movies, shows or computer games.
This habit requires some careful packing of your devices, with power cords, extra batteries, and earbuds. It will ensure everyone can enjoy their favorite activities while on the journey.
Always double check your technology needs to prevent disappointment and boredom. Keep in mind, if you’re staying at a hotel they may have IPTV, gaming consoles, and other electronic activities, which can cut down on what you need to pack.
These tips will not only make family vacations more enjoyable and fun but save you from physical and emotional stress. You can avoid the problems of overtired children and frazzled adults if you take the time to research your trip.
Involve everyone in the planning and pack strategically to satisfy individual requirements. Here are a few tips to guide you when going on a trip with your baby.
