Family vacations allow for the perfect opportunity to bond with your kids as you begin making life-long memories. While the idea of a vacation can sound amazing, going about it can become overwhelming if you don’t plan properly. The key to a successful family trip is preparation, flexibility, and focusing on practical solutions to common challenges. Let’s dive into some tips for planning the perfect vacation with young children.
Pick the Right Destination
Begin by thinking about where you want to go and why. Do you want to go abroad or stay within the country? Likewise, are you looking for an adventurous trip or a relaxing one? Starting with a wide scope allows you to narrow your options based on your family’s needs and preferences. Consider budget, safety, accessibility, climate, and age-appropriate activities when deciding on a destination.
Plan an Itinerary
Once you have a destination, the next tip for planning the ideal vacation with young kids is to create a tentative plan. Scope out activities your family can do during the trip, such as:
- Visiting theme parks
- Going on gentle hikes
- Relaxing at the beach
- Having a picnic in the park
- Taking a boat ride
Plan fun and manageable activities for young children, including breaks for rest and snack time. You should also consider your child’s age; a five-year-old and two-year-old may have different energy levels and interests,
Pro Tip
Jot down your ideas in a physical or digital notepad, then discuss everything with your family. Book tickets to excursions that you all consider must-dos.
Buy Quality Luggage
Durable, lightweight luggage withstands the wear and tear of traveling with young kids, minimizing frustrations like broken zippers or tipped-over bags. Buying your kids their own luggage is one of the best hacks to make family travel easy since it allows you to separate your child’s belongings from yours. Your little one can tuck any toys or snacks into their bag for easy access during the trip.
As you decide on what luggage to bring, consider how long you’ll be on vacation and what’s most manageable. Bags with 360-rotation wheels are generally easier to maneuver, while backpacks with many compartments provide great organization.
Be Flexible
Even the best-laid plans can change based on kids’ moods or energy levels, and that’s okay. Most importantly, you and your family have fun and make treasured memories. There may be days when your kids need downtime in the hotel or you decide to change plans at the last minute.
Keep an open mind and go with the flow, knowing that sometimes things won’t go according to plan. Traveling at a relaxed pace also helps keep everyone in good spirits. Focus on enjoying time spent together rather than attempting to cover your entire checklist of attractions.
Check out the That’s Total Mom Sense podcast for tips on planning incredible trips and making memories with your family!
