Are you preparing for a family holiday? Do you have a plan for making this vacation a time to remember, or are you just going to wing it?
Here’s a piece of advice: never rely on the motto, “we’ll see it when we get there,” especially when it comes to family vacations.
That is because life on vacation with children can be very unpredictable, and when things go south (which they will), we become tense and frustrated.
There is no shortage of online information focusing on the world’s best family-friendly places or money-saving tips for families hoping to travel on a budget. Still, there isn’t much advice on making your family holidays more pleasurable.
We’ve enlisted a few fantastic ways to fill that void through which you and your family can make the most out of your holidays.
So here’s what you need to know:
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Plan your destination wisely
It is essential to pick a destination that does not disappoint in tourist attractions (mainly to keep the kids entertained) for family holidays.
For example, you can visit Pigeon Forge, TN, if you want your family holiday to be unlike any you’ve had before. It is loaded with Tennessee’s most beautiful and unique attractions. You can even lodge at the pigeon forge hotels and treat your family to the luxury they deserve.
Other than the destination itself, consider your family’s needs at the destination.
How will you get around the city with your gang? Do you require a stroller? What method will you use to prepare baby food or heat bottles?
Perhaps your family is traveling to a remote location; will you have cell phone service to use your GPS along the way? Thinking about the extra factors ahead of time will help you avoid a crisis.
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Do not attempt to break the bank.
This is probably easier said than done. But it’s not difficult to see that stretching your budget to the breaking point to pay for your annual holiday isn’t help you relax.
After all, the last thing you want to do is keep track of the price of each admission ticket, soda with dinner, and parking fee. Instead, figure out how much money you have ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Look for family and friends who have vacation homes for which you can exchange your services and talents, and consider long weekends instead of full-week trips.
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Let the kids eat cake.
Holidays, like screen time, are not the time to expect the kids to eat the healthiest lunches and dinners.
Long after they’ve lost the desire for lollipops in the noon, night, and morning, they’ll be up a little too late and snack on things they don’t get at home and have all of dad and mom’s attention.
Instead of limiting what the kids eat, order something delicious for yourself and let the kids have this one!
You’re on vacation. You certainly deserve it!
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You don’t have to spend every waking minute together.
You want to go to the gym or read that book you started a year ago for an hour. Carry it out! Sure, it’s a family vacation, but you’re a part of it.
So leave the kids with the other spouse for an hour or two while you go to the spa. Or, even better, take that nap you’ve been putting off since the year before you had kids.
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Have a backup plan.
One of the worst nightmares for parents is that their kids will go missing while on vacation. Put an end to this fear by describing a plan with your children.
If they have a cell phone, give them your number and the hotel’s number. You can also buy some bracelets or notes to put inside their bag with your information and the hotel’s information if they come across someone who can assist them.
Set a meeting point at the start of each day if you become separated.
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Reserve outdoor activities
Most people, especially children, are happier when they are outside. As a result, planning a trip that allows your family to participate in outdoor activities will go a long way towards putting everyone in a better mood.
Exercising outside releases dopamine and endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals that improve focus and memory.
Active outdoor vacations will also help relieve stress, promote better sleep, and provide more energy throughout your trip.
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Pack some snacks
Pack a variety of snacks to stave off hunger pangs. Look for nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruit, vegetables, and nuts.
Consider bringing a small cooler with you for items like cheese sticks. Remember to include juice boxes or small water bottles for tiny hands.
Single-serve items packaged for convenience, such as pre-packaged containers of crackers/pretzels, will make eating on the road easier and save money on impulse purchases.
Conclusion
So these were just a few of the ways you can enjoy your family holidays without worrying about something going wrong. Just remember to keep your expectations at bay and let loose.
Alongside these tips, do whatever you can to make the trip more memorable. Share your favorite music with them, tell stories, and most importantly, take a break from the daily grind of life and enjoy this particular time together!
Oh, and finally, bring some sunscreen because nothing murders a family holiday quicker than peeling noses and blistery skin.
