Summertime is the most popular time for vacations. That being said, it can also be the most stressful time for vacations. Lots of people traveling here and there. Lots of waiting in lines at different popular locations. Lucky for you, I created this post just in time for your family vacation. Here are vacation tips on how to make your vacation happy and relaxing!
- Service your car before you leave for vacation. Oil change, tire rotation, breaks are a good place to start. You don't need to have car problems when on vacation.
- Have the kids involved in the planning process. Especially, if they are old enough to complain about what they are doing. =) Give them small tasks to review like read the destination vacation to find out more places to go.
- Pack for activities. Make a list of clothing and stuff you will need for your different activities. Make a checklist before you leave and use the same checklist for when you return to make sure you have all your gear.
- Schedule your daytime and evenings with events with the kids and adults in mind. Decide ahead of time the different evening activities you will be doing. Will the kids need to be watched by someone? What will you be doing while the kids are doing their activities? Ask these questions before you go and decide on a plan.
- Spend some time exploring the area without scheduling every minute. Visit local parks, museums, etc.. that you didn't plan to see for something spontaneous to do.
- Have a history lesson with the kids and research online. Before leaving, have the kids search online about the country, culture, or city you will be visiting.
- Have a positive attitude. Every vacation should be a happy one. If something happens that is not planned, be flexible in your schedule.
- Turn off your messaging and data plan so you can concentrate on family and friends. This will help the members of your family feel more involved and more willing to take part in the trip.
Here is a two-page checklist for your to share. It has columns for up to 5 members of the family.
There are extra spaces for you to write in other items you need to take on your vacation. And, extra columns to add children as well.
There is always something to do before going away. This page allows you to write it all down. If possible, staple or double side these two pages to help you keep them together.
When looking back on their childhoods, kids remember their vacations. So, make every vacation a happy and memorable one. What was your favorite childhood vacation? Please leave a comment.