Family Holiday Tips: Create Memorable Experiences

Wise parents know a great family holiday is all about the experience, not merely the destination. While it’s easy to impress your kids if you have a significant budget, creativity and thoughtful planning can yield a wonderfully memorable experience, regardless of location or cost.

1. Keep Things Simple

Every parent realizes that sometimes children find the most joy in simple activities, such as playing in puddles or climbing trees, rather than at expensive attractions. Therefore, it’s essential to keep outings uncomplicated. Understand what brings joy to your children, as their happiness will ultimately enhance your experience.

2. Learn from Experience

No matter where you decide to go, you can find a wealth of advice from fellow parents online. Seek out reviews to discover what offers good value, the best times to visit to avoid crowds, and where you can find economical tickets.

3. Prime Your Audience

Engage your children by reading about your destination together or watching related movies. For instance, arriving dressed as knights at a castle can ignite their imagination and create an exciting adventure.

4. Let the Kids in on the Planning

Involving your children in the travel planning process can ensure a suitable destination for everyone, regardless of age differences. Let older children engage with online resources, and encourage them to suggest possible outings.

5. Keep Journey Times Short

Long journeys can wear out small children, leading to frustration and chaos. Keep travel times manageable and incorporate frequent stops for breaks and enjoyment along the way.

6. Travel Slowly

Focus not only on your destination but also on the journey itself. Plan trips with multiple stops to cater to each family member’s interests while ensuring everyone enjoys the day.

7. Pack Snacks

Bringing your picnic can save money and time. Kids often leave expensive food untouched, so having familiar snacks on hand can avoid unnecessary frustration.

8. It’s All in the Timing

Before visiting museums or galleries, check their schedules for children’s activities. Timing your visit to coincide with special hands-on programs can enrich your family experience significantly.

9. Don’t Pay at the Door

Family outings to popular attractions can quickly become expensive. Look for online discounts and promotional offers to save money before you visit.

10. Use Vouchers

Utilize loyalty programs or rewards cards to gain discounts and benefits that can make your family outings more affordable.

11. Join a Tour

Select engaging tours, such as kayaking or ghost walks, to keep children entertained and help them learn about the area in a fun way.

12. Get an Annual or City Pass

Consider purchasing passes that grant access to multiple attractions, allowing for more frequent visits without the pressure to stay the entire day.

13. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

Evaluate your lodging options; campgrounds or unique stays like farm visits can often be more budget-friendly and enriching than traditional hotels.

14. Become a Member

Joining umbrella organizations, such as national trusts, can provide free access to a variety of attractions, making spontaneous stops more feasible.

15. Bring a Friend

Encouraging your child to bring a friend can significantly enhance the travel experience, making family trips far more enjoyable.

16. Relax the Rules

Letting your children indulge in some normally prohibited activities can create joyful memories. Shared experiences, like staying up late or dressing up for events, can strengthen family bonds and provide lasting happiness.

This article was first published May 18, 2015, and updated Feb 10, 2020.