Keeping the Fun in Family Trips

Family trips, especially road trips, can turn sour quickly. Directions can be lost, toys left behind, attractions closed and hiking trails rained out. Plenty of things can go bad on a trip that can make the trip unpleasant for moms, dads and kids. Here are some things you can do to try and stay away from uncomfortable feelings and moments during your trip: 1. Have a plan- Plan out each day of your getaway. This may seem tiresome at first, but having a plan will eliminate disagreements about what to do on each day. Make sure to have back up activities just in case your first choice doesn’t work out. Also make sure to make free time so that each member of the family can enjoy some time on their own. 2. Frequent Stops- If you are taking a road trip with children remember to stop often, and not just for the purpose of using the bathroom. Find fun attractions along your route and stop for a while so that the kids can can get out of the car and have some fun. Spending less time in the car driving usually leads to happier kids. 3. Toys and Games- Make sure to bring some toys and games, especially if you have many hours of driving ahead of you. Bring toys and games that your kids can have fun with on their own, but also bring games that you can all play as a family. Remember, spending time with your family is part of the fun of family vacation. 4. Agreed destinations- Try to opt for a spot that everyone can agree on. Places like theme parks are usually geared for families. Most of the fun is for the kids, but there are usually some rides and attractions that are more matched for older kids and adults. Museums are normally great for adults, but art museums are not suited for most young kids. Places like zoos and aquariums are better since they allow for more sociallizing. 5. Food- If you are taking a road trip, don’t always stick to sandwich lunches in the car...numerous days of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches gets old. So, on the sandwich days make sure you have some yummy snacks to supplement the sandwiches and on the other days choose a fun looking restaurant. 6. Maps- Before leaving the house make sure that you have a place for all the maps and directions you may need during the trip. Even if the directions are basic walking directions on how to get to an attraction close to your hotel, having everything planned ahead of time can help to prevent arguments, late starts, and lost travelers. 7. Attitude- Remember that you are on vacation to relax and have fun. Help your kids to see that they may not get to do every single thing that they want. Bad moods ruin getaways faster than rain so set the example and try to be happy no matter the situation.