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My family is at our very best when we’re on vacation together. With school, work, chores, and constant distractions left behind, we get to truly reconnect—exploring, experiencing, and enjoying life in a way that only travel allows.
But let’s be real: those magical moments don’t happen by accident. They take planning, time, and money.
I’ll never forget our first big (and expensive) trip when my son was 4 and my daughter was 8. We were headed to Hawaii, and I had big dreams: visiting two islands, snorkeling, hiking, and epic road trips over 10 days. Let’s just say… things didn’t go quite as I pictured.
My son wet the bed he shared with his sister (not a popular move), was terrified to snorkel, and my daughter got car sick. But here’s the thing: even with all the hiccups, we made amazing memories – like dancing at a luau in the pouring rain. That trip taught me a lot about what makes or breaks a family vacation.
Since then, I’ve learned what works (and what doesn’t) when traveling with kids of all ages. And I’m here to share my top family travel tips so you can plan a trip everyone will enjoy—without losing your mind in the process.
Set Clear Expectations and Involve Everyone Early
Start with your expectations—especially if you’re the planner. A two-year-old on a 10-hour flight might not be your best move. Set realistic expectations for what your family can handle.
Involve your kids in the process! If they’re old enough, ask each family member to share one “must-have” for the trip. Try to accommodate everyone—even if it’s just a small detail. This makes kids feel included and more flexible when compromises need to happen.
When kids are school-age, it becomes even harder to schedule vacations, especially if you are trying to avoid peak travel times. Pick a travel date that works around key events (birthday parties, sports activities). While perfection isn’t possible, involving your family early will help avoid complaints later.
Choose a Destination with Something for Everyone
Before you book, think about budget, travel style, and your ideal destination type. Family travel can be expensive—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Here are a few family-friendly options beyond the obvious (looking at you, Disney):
- All-Inclusive Resorts: A one-stop shop for food, entertainment, and fun. Great for ease and peace of mind. Check out my post on what to look for in an all-inclusive.
- Cruises: Visit multiple destinations without packing up every other day. Many now have kids’ clubs and teen lounges.
- National Parks: One of my favorites. Beautiful scenery, fresh air, and built-in digital detox thanks to spotty reception.
- Road Trips: Don’t underestimate the fun of a well-planned road trip! They’re flexible, affordable, and perfect for spontaneous adventures.
Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your budget and check that everyone’s travel documents (especially passports) are up to date.
HOT TIP: If traveling with young kids, opt for short, nonstop flights or road trips within a few hours of home. You’ll start the trip a lot less exhausted.
Prioritize Downtime and Flexibility
I’m a chronic over-planner, but I’ve learned the hard way that packing every minute of the day leads to burnout. Build in downtime. Let kids nap, read, or just chill. Don’t be afraid to split up – maybe one parent takes the kids to the pool while the other relaxes or sneaks in a solo spa visit.
HOT TIP: Over-plan options, not a strict itinerary. Have a list of backup activities in case of bad weather or a change in mood, but don’t feel like you have to do it all.
Book Family-Friendly Accommodations
Compare hotels and vacation rentals. Hotels can be great, especially if you can get a room with two beds and a pull-out couch or rollaway so that everyone has his or her own sleeping area. Vacation rentals offer more space, flexibility, and the ability to prepare your own meals, but may lack amenities like you find at a hotel. The older your children are, the happier they will be with an opportunity for privacy.
Look for features like pools, kitchens, and kids’ clubs. These can save money and provide built-in entertainment.
Make it easier to book your travel by using a site like booking.com to find everything from your hotel, flights, and car rentals to activities in one spot.
Plan Meals and Snacks in Advance
Eating out three times a day is expensive and time-consuming. We like to hit a grocery store early in the trip to stock up on breakfast basics and snacks. If we have a kitchen, we’ll even prep a few meals.
And snacks? Non-negotiable. Kids need them constantly. Keep a stash in your bag at all times. Even a granola bar can save the day.
If you’re eating out, skip the fancy spots unless your kids are adventurous eaters. There’s nothing worse than spending a fortune on food your kids won’t touch.
Prep with a Packing List for All Ages
Packing for the whole family is no joke—especially with airline baggage fees and limited trunk space. The key? Stay organized with a checklist (or feel free to borrow mine!).
If you’re traveling with little ones, having a washer and dryer at your rental can be a total game-changer. For older kids, I let them pack their own carry-ons. My rule? “If you can carry it, you can bring it.” It teaches responsibility and keeps me from being the family pack mule.
Here are a few must-haves we never leave home without:
- Travel games (Uno, cards, magnetic board games)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, headphones, books)
- Chargers, medications, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit
- Reusable water bottles and a few surprise snacks or treats
HOT TIP: I always pack my Kindle. It’s lightweight, holds all my books, and saves tons of space.
Be Ready to Pivot When Plans Change
Not everything will go as planned—and that’s okay. In fact, it’s normal.
Vacations are the perfect time to let go of routines. Skip the usual breakfast. Forget naptime. Embrace the moment and adjust as needed. Some of our best memories have come from the unexpected—like that rainy luau in Hawaii.
Flexibility is your best friend when traveling with kids. The more you can roll with the punches, the more fun everyone will have.
Capture the Memories (Without the Stress)
You don’t need 500 perfect photos to remember your trip. Focus on a few simple ways to preserve the memories and stay present:
- Keep a travel journal—just a few notes each day from you or the kids.
- Give your kids a camera or an old phone to take their own photos (you’ll love seeing the trip through their eyes).
- After the trip, create a scrapbook or photo book. I use Shutterfly—they’ll even design it for you if you’re short on time.
But most importantly? Put the camera down sometimes. Be present. Laugh. Dance in the rain. Those are the moments your family will remember forever.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Don’t forget to download my free Family Travel Packing List to help you pack like a pro!
