Sometimes it is easier to plan an affordable family vacation by carefully reviewing cheap travel options, including cheap airplane tickets, discount hotel rooms, and cheap vacation packages, than it is to enjoy a stress free family vacation.
Stress tends to be a byproduct of vacationing with a group consisting of a wide range of ages and personalities, particularly when you are taking a multi-generational vacation. A little advance planning can go a long way in helping make everything go smoother.
The following should be kept in mind prior to your departure, if you want everyone in your party to have a good time on vacation, according to Samantha Brown:
Cater to everyones interests. Beaches, theme parks, cities, and national parks all offer a wide variety of activities and interests that usually an entire family can enjoy.
Once you have selected a destination, ask every family member to write down what they want to do there. Once you know your family members preferences you can create an itinerary that includes activities that everyone will enjoy.
Try to merge certain activities that are similar or propose trying some things that are completely new to everyone. Working with a family wish list will make everyone feel that their desires are being considered and they will be more likely to enjoy others recommendations.
Consider weather in deciding when to travel. Experienced travelers tend to prefer off season travel to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower prices. However, if you will be traveling with children and/or teenagers the likelihood of colder, hotter, or more rainy days during the off season might cause more moodiness and meltdowns. Generally multigenerational trips are best taken during, or close to, the high season.
Schedule some alone time. Family travelers tend to fall into two groups: those who nap and those who dont. Regardless, everyone needs a break. Every day you should build in a nice respite, ideally around 3 or 4 pm. Without such breaks your trip is likely to deteriorate fast.
Remember that the older generation can be just as cranky as toddlers who do not get needed rest. Those who do not nap can still enjoy a break reading a book or magazine. Older kids can spend nap time drawing, coloring, or writing in a journal.
Be willing to take the lead and say you need a break in the afternoon. Everyone will likely appreciate relaxing for a bit.
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