10 Tips to Make Your Family Trips Run Smoothly

Family Vacation: 10 Tips to Make Your Trip More Enjoyable

Planning a family vacation can be stressful if you aren't sure what you are doing or if you have never planned one before. It's always best to research prior to making any decisions, and I've compiled a list of ideas to make that vacation just a tad less stressful:

1. Determine where and when you want to vacation

Sit the family down and take a vote to determine the destination of the family vacation. Then determine the best time to travel to that specific destination.

2. Invest in a good phone with a GPS system

Whether you are driving, flying, or walking, it's never a bad idea to carry a good cell phone on you. I recently took a trip to New York, and I constantly relied on my phone's GPS to get around. It even helped me navigate NYC's subway system. Without my phone, I can guarantee that I would have spent more time walking or riding the subways. Less commuting means more time to enjoy vacation!

3. Bring entertainment

No matter which way you travel, games, and snacks are always a win, especially with little ones! On longer flights, my son definitely enjoys having his favorite movies, shows, and games downloaded to his phone. Did you know you can download your favorite movies and shows on Netflix, and watch them offline? It's a lifesaver.

4. Make an itinerary

This is pretty straightforward, but research the location you are traveling to and make a list of all the activities that your family wants to do while on vacation. You do not have to strictly abide by a schedule, but having an outline may make things less stressful and overwhelming.

5. Budget, budget, budget, and start a travel fund!

This should go without saying, but budget your money! My best advice is to book your accommodations and travel as far in advance as possible and save every penny that you can until the day of your trip. Nothing beats having to vacation on a budget.

6. Invest in a good vehicle, if you plan on taking a road trip

I know it may seem silly, but little things really do go a long way. Luxury SUVs tend to offer more features, such as more leg room. Speaking from experience, both of these things are a HUGE plus for taking a road trip. SUVsdo not have to be an expensive option.

7. Make sure you have all appropriate documents

Before your trip, and before heading to the airport, make sure that you and your family members have all their appropriate documents. This includes, but is not limited to: IDs, boarding passes, birth certificates, passports, health insurance, etc. Having these documents not only ensures easy passage through airport security, but it's also great to have in case of an emergency.

8. Buy travel insurance

On a similar note, buy travel insurance! Many people bypass this, but travel insurance protects you if you get sick before a planned trip or if your flight is delayed or canceled.

9. Hire a house sitter

Don't wake up in the middle of the night in another city, country, or state wondering if you turned off the stove, closed the garage, or locked the doors. Hire someone to house sit or check on the house while you're away.

10. Have fun!

Last but not least, have fun! You have earned this trip, so stop stressing and enjoy your time, wherever you decide to go!

Many steps go into planning a vacation, and at times it can be overwhelming, but once you book everything and are on your way to your destination, you will soon realize it was all worth it.