Traveling with family, especially when young children or multiple households are involved, can get tricky! The more people you travel with, the more expensive your trip gets. The more attitudes and interests you have to consider, the more difficult transportation becomes. However, a family vacation is a bonding opportunity that provides a totally unique way to nurture your relationships and create lasting memories. All in all, the benefits certainly outweigh the challenges, so let\u2019s take a look at a few tips to help you travel as a family successfully. We\u2019ll delve into budgeting, how to find the best accommodation, some great family travel destinations, and a few other tips to help you adventure smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you’re traveling with family internationally or just exploring your own neighborhood, Adventures From Scratch: Family Edition<\/em><\/a> can help make it a fun and memorable experience. Our scratch-off adventure books contain 55+ ideas that encourage exploration, bonding, and fun! Our books include in-home activities, on-the-go adventures, conversation prompts, and even a space for journaling your favorite moments. It\u2019s a complete mini-vacation that can ride along in your suitcase or stay in the car for spontaneous excursions!<\/p>\n\n\n\n The most important part of any vacation is choosing a destination that works for everyone. Now obviously, if you’re traveling solo, you only have one person to please, but when you’re traveling as a family, you have to include rest moments for mom, fun activities for littles, and something for the history buff, too. Too many people choose their destination first and then try to make everything else work. Let\u2019s flip the agenda. A better way to plan is to consider your family\u2019s interests, needs, and budget before<\/em> picking a spot. Here are a few tips for picking the right destination for your family adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s get this out of the way now\u2014if you are the primary trip planner, you will not be able to please everyone on your own. Travel planning is the way that we get excited about a trip. When you’re the one who has read all the blogs, seen all the pictures, and organized all the details, you have a connection to the destination that the rest of the family doesn\u2019t have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In order to get everyone on board, take a family survey of where they would like to go. You could throw it out there as a blanket question, but it\u2019s likely you will get six different answers. A better solution may be for you and your partner to narrow it down to two or three options that fit your parameters and present some of the information you found to the whole crew. Allowing the children, especially if you have teens, to be a part of the decision-making process will help create a passion in them for the vacation. Therefore, they’re more likely to enjoy the trip itself. Plus, it takes a bit of the pressure off of you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Beaches are beautiful, but they aren\u2019t for everyone. I know that sounds insane to you beach lovers, but let me take you on a personal journey for a minute… <\/p>\n\n\n\n When I was 15, my parents took us on one of our first major vacations. We spent a week in Destin, Florida, and I was absolutely miserable. Of course, I was a bratty teen with better things to do than hang with my family, but also, I didn\u2019t like the beach. The water was gross to me. The sun was torture on my fair skin, and mostly, I was bored out of my mind. I still am not fond of a beach-only vacation. Thankfully, my mom was in tune with my misery, and she took me bungee jumping on our last day, which saved the whole thing for me. It’s a memory of her that I cherish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Anyway, all that is to say that even the most relaxing and beautiful spot on earth may not hold any interest for your brood. It\u2019s best to choose a destination that has ample other activities available. If you want to hit the beach, consider somewhere like Puerto Morelos, Mexico. PM is a family-friendly beach town 20 minutes south of Cancun. It sits at the entrance to the Route of Cenotes for excellent ATV and jungle excursions. There’s off-shore snorkeling and organized tours, and you’re just minutes from several interesting Mayan ruins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s be real; everyone reading this is in a different financial situation. For some, hopping on a long trip across the globe is no problem. For others, especially large families, that just isn\u2019t in the budget. While exploring new cultures is an amazing travel experience (and an educational one), if it causes your family to suffer afterward, it isn\u2019t worth it. Don\u2019t put yourself in inescapable debt just for some sightseeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We recommend making a budget before your trip and before you choose a destination<\/em>! Build a simple Google Sheet or use a budget app to help you organize. Once you know what you can afford to spend, you can begin comparing flights, hotels, and activity costs for a few destinations and see what fits the mold. A general vacation budget might include these categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Families, especially families with little ones, often feel like an international trip is daunting. There are so many unknowns. However, we want to take a minute to encourage your sense of exploration. If you book early enough, you can often find international flights for cheaper than a road trip or a flight across the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, if you do your research, you can feel comfortable taking on the destination before you leave home. As a full-time traveler, I have personally spent time with scores of families that either travel full-time or travel for half the year and a host of other arrangements, with children of all ages. If they can do it every day, you can certainly do it for a week! If you have no interest in that kind of travel, toss it. But if it’s a dream of yours, don\u2019t let it slip away due to fear. It really is achievable!<\/p>\n\n\n\n When choosing a destination that feels right for your family, use the massive amount of information at your fingertips. Travel blogs are an incredible resource. You’re getting a first-person perspective from someone who has been there. Read several. Get different perspectives. Search for destinations on social media. Instagram is a great place to start. Ask questions in the comments or scroll them for information. You can get a really good idea of the vibe of your destination before you commit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It doesn\u2019t do much good to make a budget if you don\u2019t stick to it. Travel can be exorbitantly expensive, but as someone who does it in daily life, I can also attest to the fact that it doesn\u2019t have to be. You can have an amazing family trip and save money just by tweaking some little things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Break down the budget totals that you created earlier into daily totals. While on your trip, track your expenses. You can use a budget app or just keep a note on your phone. At the end of the day, add it up. Doing this daily allows you to stay focused and on track. If you have a day that is way over the budget, you can adjust the next day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Signing up for one credit card can save you $700-800 on a trip, and that\u2019s just in the introductory points. If you’re disciplined enough to pay your credit card bill at the end of every month before it accrues interest, sign up for a Capital One Venture card or a Chase Sapphire Preferred card. Charge your flights to the card to meet the introductory bar, and then once you’ve been granted your bonus points, use those points to book the rest of your trip or pay yourself back for the travel expenses you have already booked. Easy money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Every person has a distinct travel style. You may drool over luxury hotel suites or all-inclusive resorts. Perhaps you find your solace in a people-packed spice market. Maybe you’re cool with street food. Maybe you\u2019re a foodie whose whole vacation revolves around tasty treats. There is no right or wrong, just preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, choose wisely. Put your money where your joy is. If you love food, use a budget-friendly scavenger hunt<\/a> to skim the sightseeing stuff in the city and spend your money on a traditional meal in a top-rated restaurant. If you have an itinerary that looks like a Tolstoy novel, save money by staying in a cheap Airbnb. You aren\u2019t going to be spending any time there anyway. Spend your money on what you love. Skimp on the other stuff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transportation is a big part of your trip budget, and it is one aspect that varies greatly depending on your destination. It may take a little research to find the best way to get around. Here are a few travel tips to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are a million and one flight programs out there. To be honest, I personally find that Google Flights is the most comprehensive and user-friendly place to start. You should be using this before you choose your destination!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Put in your closest four airports in the departure. Click the map. This will pull up the cheapest flight for a one-week trip in the next six months as the preset. You can change it to particular dates if you need to, but I recommend choosing your trip dates based on the cheapest flight, if at all possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From here, you can go to the direct airlines, Momondo<\/a>, or your credit card travel forum and see if you can find a cheaper version of the flight. Generally, you won\u2019t, but you might be able to use your travel points to lessen the blow. This search method just gives you the overall best dates, flights, and routes to take to keep your costs low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pro Tip:<\/em><\/strong> Remember to check the luggage prices before booking your trip. That cheap flight on Frontier or Spirit might be a whole different ballgame when you add luggage prices (even carry-ons), a stroller, and meals for a family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For many Americans, the idea of using public transit on your vacation doesn\u2019t even cross their mind. We\u2019re predominately a driving nation, but if you’re visiting Europe, Asia, or South America, you will find that the public transit system is mostly an economical and efficient way to travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Public transit varies from place to place. In some destinations, it will be best for you to get a family pass for the week. In others, it will benefit you to pay for separate tickets. Unfortunately, you just have to dig. Renting a car may be an option, too, but if you have a big family or young kids who need car seats or aren\u2019t comfortable driving in another nation, save yourself the trouble and get the bus. The best route is usually just a Google search away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The cheapest (and sometimes safest) way to travel is on foot. Plus, there is no better way to truly experience the beauty and atmosphere of a place than to get out in the open air, where you can feel, taste, and hear it for yourselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now is a great time for a shameless plug… if you really want to experience the best of a city, a little guidance can help. Download our scavenger hunt app<\/a> and explore your destination on a fun-filled challenge. We have urban art walks, sightseeing hunts, ghost tours, and bar crawls, so there\u2019s something for the whole family. Plus, you\u2019ll gain access to our travel forum, Let\u2019s Roam Local<\/a>, which has tips from locals and travelers on must-see spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While taxi travel is the most expensive and often results in getting ripped off, it’s sometimes necessary. My husband and I have a rule. We take a taxi when we first arrive in a new city and we have all of our luggage. The walk is always longer than you think, and GPS isn\u2019t always working appropriately yet. Losing your cool and starting off on the wrong foot is not worth the few dollars you save by walking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Uber has run into some roadblocks on the international front. However, other apps have sprung up in its place, and they essentially operate the same way. We suggest using a local app (Bolt, Ola, Careem) rather than flagging a taxi. It is usually cheaper, and you won\u2019t have to haggle or have cash on hand. It\u2019s prepaid and set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Accommodation, especially for a big family, can be really difficult. If you have more than four family members, you often have to book a suite or multiple rooms due to fire codes. Some of it is unavoidable, but here are a few tips to lessen the blow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s a simple travel truth. The earlier you book, the more options you have. If you’re traveling to a popular destination, you need to secure your accommodation months in advance if you want the best spots. Use multiple sites. Compare Agoda with Booking.com with Airbnb with your credit card forum to find the best prices on a spot you love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although Airbnb fees have gone up a whole lot since the pandemic and the company went public, it’s still often the cheapest option for a family. You get away from that whole fire code thing, and even with a hefty cleaning fee, most apartments or homes are going to be cheaper than booking a suite at a hotel or two rooms. Airbnb isn\u2019t your only option. Booking.com also features houses and apartments now. Just watch for hidden fees in the excluded section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have older children, a hostel can be a good option in some locations. First of all, they have kitchens, so you can save money on food. They generally are in the city center, which offers great walkability to major sights, and they are usually the cheapest options. It is sometimes cheaper to book a whole room at a hostel than it is to rent an apartment. For instance, let\u2019s say you are a family of six. The hostel room has eight beds. It might be cheaper for you to book all eight beds and have a room to yourself than to book a hotel room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hostels aren\u2019t for everyone. Before making this decision, check out \u201cStaying in a Hostel: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n When traveling as a family, pay close attention to the reviews that discuss safety. You can filter reviews on Booking.com and Google to focus on safety concerns. Read them carefully. Check out blogs by solo female travelers on the destination. Most effectively, get the address and plug it into Google Earth. Zoom in and get a feel of the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The closer you are to the sights, the fewer transportation costs you accrue and the less time you waste getting there. Sometimes, it is wise to pay more to stay in the center of the action. This is especially true if you have a tight schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your family is your most precious possession. Here are a few tips for protecting them when you travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Good travel insurance can save your butt. Long flights are expensive. Airlines lose luggage. People get sick. Trains get canceled. Having some padding to make sure you don\u2019t lose it all just makes you feel more comfortable. Safety Wing<\/a> is a wonderful and budget-friendly option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you go sightseeing, don\u2019t wander the street aimlessly. It makes you look like a target to pickpockets and schemers. To the best of your ability, know where you are going before you hit the streets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In any city or populated area, you need to protect each other and your stuff. That means wallets in the front pocket, travel purses with locks and straps that can\u2019t be cut (crossbody or fanny pack recommended), and locking up your documents somewhere safe. We also recommend having a strong family member at the head and one at the back watching the clan when you walk the streets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you draw money from an ATM, have a second person watching out for thieves. If you sit your bags down while you eat, wrap the straps around your chair leg. Parents will have to be on guard because kids don\u2019t think about this stuff. Just being aware of yourself and making smart decisions can save you from a lot of hassle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use an app like Find My Kids or Life 360 and register every family member\u2019s phone. This way, if you get separated, you can find each other easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some of your best family bonding moments will likely be during the activities you choose for your trip. Here are a few tips to help you choose wisely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Again, allowing your kids to be a part of the planning increases their devotion to the trip. Give them some parameters on budget and location and set them free to utilize their Google skills. Let them plan a day trip or a single activity or choose a hotel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tourist attractions are popular for a reason. Some of them are great and should be at the top of your bucket list. Others have just become famous because of impressive marketing. As a result, they are overpriced, and there are better options. See the big stuff, but a traditional cooking class, dance lesson, or guided tour by a local expert is often far more informative and memorable for half the price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Traveling as a family can put some real strain on your relationships. Some handle it with excitement and ease. Others are a stressed-out mess. Check out these simple tricks to keeping the peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hungry equals hangry, and hangry equals hurt feelings. Pack snacks. Take breaks in the park for coffee and chocolate. Everything gets better after a snack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t just pack your schedule to the brim and think you\u2019ll rest when you need to. You won\u2019t. Schedule some downtime for each person to just relax and do their own thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As the trip planner, you often feel responsible for the trip and everyone\u2019s enjoyment, but you are no more in charge of your children\u2019s or spouse\u2019s emotions on vacation than you are at home. It can be hurtful when it feels like they’re being ungrateful, but it usually passes. Address it and give grace for the unusual situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alright guys, we hope this article provided you with some helpful tips for traveling with family. We certainly couldn\u2019t cover it all in one short article, but hopefully, you’re encouraged to dig in and make it happen now. Remember, travel is a life experience, and it comes with troubles and difficulties, but it\u2019s worth it. Put these tips to use and book that trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n For more family travel tips, check out these articles on our sister site, Let\u2019s Roam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe 20 Best Places to Travel With Kids<\/a>\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhat to Consider Before You Travel With Teens<\/a>\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cHow to Travel (on a Budget) With Your Family<\/a>\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Traveling with family<\/a> is an excellent bonding experience. It\u2019s also a good opportunity for parents to introduce children to new cultures<\/a>, work on self-sufficiency, and have fun together!<\/p> <\/div> To plan a family vacation that everyone will love, set a budget<\/a> before you pick a destination, allow each family member to plan a day<\/a>, and include adventures for each family member<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> For a fun family vacation<\/a>, check out Puerto Morelos Mexico, Puerto Rico, or a national park road trip! Of course, survey each member of the family<\/a> and pick a spot everyone is excited to go to!<\/p> <\/div> For fun ideas on your vacation, take along a scratch-off adventure book<\/a>, download the Let\u2019s Roam scavenger hunt app<\/a>, and book local gems<\/a>, like cooking classes, dance classes, or walking tours.<\/p> <\/div>
\n\n\n\nTips for Choosing the Right Location<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Survey the family.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Look for places with a wide variety of activities.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Find a location that fits the budget.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Don\u2019t be afraid to take on new cultures.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Use social media and travel blogs.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Containing the Budget<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. Create daily tallies.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Try your hand at travel hacking.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Choose wisely.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Here are a few budget-friendly and fun destinations:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Transportation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
9. Get the best flight.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Use public transit.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. If you can walk it, walk it.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. Use taxis when necessary.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
13. Use the local rideshare app.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Accommodation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
14. Book early.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
15. Search for full homes.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
16. Consider a hostel room.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. Prioritize safety.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. Think about location.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips on Safety and Security<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
19. Get travel insurance.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
20. Map out your route ahead of time.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
21. Monitor your goods.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
22. Turn on tracking on everyone\u2019s devices.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips on Tours and Activities<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
23. Let each family member choose an activity.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
24. Include some local gems.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Getting Along<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
25. Don\u2019t get hungry.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
26. Schedule downtime.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
27. Give grace.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nPack Your Bags!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n