The family vacation is the one time of year when everyone comes together under the same roof and tries to make lasting memories. The best family vacations are those that speak to the interests of all ages, creating a balance between fun and educational activities and opportunities for bonding.
With a bit of thoughtful planning, the perfect trip is within reach. There are plenty of ways to keep the costs down for a great family getaway, too. Kids can be encouraged to help plan the trip and take part in its funding, including filling a piggy bank over the year to save money, hosting a garage sale to sell items and giving old toys to a charity to earn spending cash.
It is also important to be flexible on vacation, since things may not always go according to plan. A long line at a museum or a rainy day in the park can be a wonderful opportunity for a different activity that everyone will enjoy.
For many families, a good way to save on the cost of family vacations is by traveling closer to home. This can be a budget-friendly option, as the airline tickets and hotel fees are much cheaper. In addition, it is often easier for parents to get kids into hotels with kids clubs that offer supervised activities. This leaves parents free to grab a spa treatment, go on a hike or even catch a live concert, making it a win-win for everyone involved.
Families with young children may also want to consider staying close to home, as it can be a less stressful travel experience. A short drive to a beach or scenic national park can be the perfect place for little ones to run and splash, letting off steam and tiring them out so they will sleep well at night.
Once the kids are older, they can be a lot more independent and ready for more adventurous trips. Hiking up mountains, exploring a national park and spotting wildlife are all possibilities for teenagers and their parents to enjoy together.
Older teens may also be ready to explore more exotic destinations, such as a visit to a city or destination in the Caribbean, or even a backpacking adventure across Europe. A well-thought-out itinerary that includes a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural excursions and downtime for all will create a fun and memorable trip for the entire family.
For a truly memorable trip, consider visiting an area that hosts a festival that everyone can enjoy. This might be an art, music or food festival that speaks to the interests of all ages. You can also make a trip based on a sporting event, such as a baseball game or a ballet performance, which is sure to capture the interest of all members of the family.