5 Ways to Make it Your Next Family Vacation Less Stressful

Are you planning a family vacation? If so, you know how stressful and overwhelming the process can be. Between booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities, there’s a lot to take into account. And that’s not even counting the stress of getting to the airport on time or wrangling the kids in unfamiliar places. The good news is that there are many ways to make your vacation planning less stressful. Here are five tips for making your vacation planning easier and more enjoyable.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Don’t wait until the last minute to start planning your trip. Allow yourself plenty of time to research different locations, compare prices, and make sure that everyone has their passports or necessary documents in order before you leave. This will allow you to feel more relaxed when it comes time to leave for your trip.

Have a Budget

When planning any kind of vacation, it’s important to have a set budget in mind before you start booking things like flights and hotels. It will help ensure that you don’t overspend and that you get the most out of your money on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Book Transportation Services

Booking transportation services can be one of the best ways to reduce stress while traveling with a family—especially if you plan on visiting multiple cities or destinations during your trip. Services like shuttle services can provide reliable transportation from point A to point B so you don’t need to worry about driving directions or finding parking spots at each stop along the way.  Additionally, many transportation services offer packages specifically tailored for families with children—so be sure to ask about them when booking.

Pack Lightly

Packing lightly is essential when traveling with a family; chances are, everyone will be bringing their own suitcase (at least). So try packing only what is absolutely necessary; if possible, opt for multi-purpose items such as clothing items that can do double duty (like dresses that work well for both day trips and night outings). Also, remember that most hotels will provide basic toiletries like shampoo and conditioner—so no need to bring those either. Doing these small things can help reduce excess baggage fees while also taking some strain off your back (literally).

Enjoy the Ride

Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy yourself while planning your trip. Sure, it can be stressful at times but keep in mind why you’re doing it—to create lasting memories with your family in an incredible destination. So take some deep breaths and let go, you won’t regret it!

Taking a family vacation can be stressful, but with careful preparation and smart planning strategies, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether it’s researching different destinations or booking transportation services ahead of time —taking these steps now will save time later so that when it’s finally time for takeoff all anyone has left is excitement. Don’t forget, enjoyment should always come first during family vacations.

By Rachelle Wilber
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/people/Rachelle-Wilber/100009221637700/