8 Tips for Planning the Perfect Family Vacation

Family vacation getaways can be one of the greatest experiences in a family. Some of the best memories (and snapshots) are created during family visits to the beach, theme parks, or historical parks or museums just hanging out having fun.

Family vacations are known for bonding times but they’re perhaps as equally well known for being stressful times. So, how do you make sure that those memories are all good? Here are some surprisingly simple tips for keeping your family smiling on your next family vacation.

1. First and foremost, think through your Family vacation getaway carefully.

Sara* and her husband have always taken their children to the Bahamas for a week. Two weeks before they leave, she finds out she has been laid off. They still go to the Bahamas, but with the layoff looming over their heads it just isn’t the same good time. In this economy, the number one tip is to make sure you can comfortably afford your trip – and have enough extra in case an emergency arises. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than worrying about how you’re going to pay the electric bill when you get home.

2. Don’t forget; the best memories aren’t about where you are, but who you’re with. If you can’t reasonably afford a week-long trip to the beach this year, consider a week somewhere closer by. Maybe two weeks anywhere in the continental U.S., or one week in Hawaii.

Consider the ages of your children and what they’d be interested in. Maybe a family reunion is a perfect getaway. You may have to settle for a couples massage instead of a week in the Hamptons. If you have a budding photographer in your family, maybe take a family vacation to the beach that includes activities like yoga and photography. There are plenty of options for arranging your photography getaway together. Just keep in mind that you’ll probably still need to arrange for a rental car, gas, and some may also require tickets, so you’ll have to go through the same planning and research steps when taking the photo vacation, but it all works out if you can get all your family members to the beach together.

3. It’s easy to get lost

when you’re travelling, so don’t take chances. Book a hotel near the beach, or a hotel on the other side of the city. Also, use the map in your hotel room to get an idea of where you’re going, and make a priority list of sites you’d like to visit.

4. koa Kea Beach is definitely not the best place to take a family vacation

but it is one of the most beautiful. Very few people-a mere thirty or so people, tops-are there on any given day. If you’re looking for seclusion, go to a hotel on the opposite side of the island. You’ll need at least half a day on the island to even begin to get around properly.

5. Don’t forget

to make a priority list of your transportation mode; you’ll still have to find ways to get to relatives and activities.

6. Bring a good book to read

while you’re sitting on the beach. The beach is the perfect place to while away a few hours. The water is generally very calm and the scenery is gorgeous. If you’re lucky, you may take along a good book or some musicians for your errands.

7. Prepare some of the comforts you’ll need

Pack bottled water and snacks, bring a light picnic lunch or rent some umbrellas. You may also want to bring games, books, and magazines for the kids. Keep them entertained during the trip.

8. To ensure you have an enjoyable vacation

make sure everyone who’s travelling with you takes a deep breath and relaxes as soon as they get on the plane. If you show excitement or stress, you’ll disaster. Everyone needs to stay calm. Put yourself in your place and take deep breaths when the plane begins to taxi down the runway. When it’s safe, walk away and get a leg up on the seat to change seats. Vomit soon when you get to the airport, not when you’re sitting in a corner. Stay calm and if your flight is delayed or with a lot of other travellers, use the bathroom, not the coach lockers