Chelsea Gentry Hello, my name is Chelsea and I am a planner. Most of the time it’s a gift, but sometimes it can really be a curse. For example, I’m still learning how to plan a fun vacation, but also enjoy myself during the actual trip. If you would like to learn How to Create a Relaxing but Fun Family Vacation, please read my tips below.
1. Plan Ahead of Time.
The amount of planning I did for our trip to Disney and Universal might shock some people, but I thrive on organization. For me, planning thoroughly ahead of time allows me to relax on our vacation. There is a general outline, but if things don’t go to plan, well then we did our best.
Check the weather, local crowd calendars, flights, routes…. anything that would be best to prepare in advance, do it. I even pack a couple weeks before vacation. The less you have to think about later, the better. Oh, and if you plan to go to Disney then be sure to check out SomewhereWorthwhile. She is a genius.
2. Schedule Down-Time.
We like to do a lot of activities and spend time outside when we go on vacation. The key to doing more things like that is to also schedule down time. I recommend two days of activities and one day to rest and so on. On your rest day you could sleep in, chill in your hotel room or by the pool. If you have kiddos I also recommend each parent getting a little time to themselves. Scheduling time to do nothing is the cornerstone in creating a relaxing but fun family vacation.
Oh, and if you have kids who nap then do not skip nap time. It’s a necessity.
3. Don’t Overpack.
The more you pack, the more choices you have and the more you have to remember. Try not to over-pack. Think through what you will definitely need. Do you plan to dress up one night for dinner or would you prefer casual clothes only? Are you really going to wear that sun hat? Do you need more than one bathing suit? Be honest with yourself and don’t over-do it.
4. Choose Flights Wisely.
I have found that although we might save a little money leaving first thing in the morning, early flight are not always worth the stress. It’s better for us to leave late morning or early afternoon. It’s important that we have time to get to the airport and through security without panicking. Also, if you have a connection then be sure to check the length of your layover. If you have any delays you might miss that connection and that will put a wrench in your vacation.
5. Think About Each Other.
Everyone in your family likes different things. For instance, I could spend my whole vacation in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and love every second. My toddler doesn’t necessarily agree with that choice. She’s too little to appreciate it. The key to successfully planning a relaxing, but fun family vacation is to think of others. Plan things everyone will like and take breaks when someone is tired. Be willing to adjust and rearrange. The point of a family vacation isn’t to see cool places (although that’s a major bonus). The point is to spend time at those places together; to share the experience.
6. Release.
Now, this last point goes with the previous one. Once you’ve made your plans for an epic family vacation, then release those plans into God’s hands. It wouldn’t be a family vacation without something… or several somethings… going wrong. Make memories in the mess. Often as planners we can get lost in the spreadsheet and forget to enjoy the vacation we planned. Release the control just a little bit and I know you won’t regret it.
Thank you for reading How to Create a Relaxing but Fun Family Vacation. I hope I was able to bring you a little help and encouragement. For more about travel content, check out these posts below:
5 Reasons to Prioritize a Family Vacation this Year
Ultimate Guide for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
How to Entertain a Toddler at Universal Studios Orlando
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Safe Travels,
