Americans are no strangers to planned vacations and trips for the sake of leisure. The human mind gets exhausted from the monotony of life and the tedious nature of one’s daily schedule. People pursue means of escape from their recurring responsibilities. Some seek domestic adventures while others plan trips to Europe or other countries. Statistics show that 4 out of 10 families go on annual vacations. And how do they make the most of these journeys? Here are nine simple suggestions that help you maximize your enjoyment on holiday. Following these easy tricks turn the trip into an actual family-bonding exercise where you can spend an enjoyable time with your loved ones.
Making family vacations more enjoyable
- Consult a travel agent
Consider consulting a travel agent before making arrangements for your next family vacation since these agents have access to all the information you require for a successful journey. These vacation experts can help you organize a stress-free trip to your favorite destination. You can find many professionals online. Just search on Google for “travel agents near me” and then contact a person with proper credentials. Don’t neglect to book your trip with these vacation specialists.
- Pack lightly
It isn’t wise to drag around a lot of luggage with you on a vacation trip. So, it would be best if you pack lightly and smartly. Don’t bring unnecessary stuff with you, and save space by leaving behind bulky wardrobes. Carry on essential things and just enough clothes to relieve the extra weight. Don’t bring stuff you can buy upon arrival at the destination. For instance, there’s no need to bring shampoo or diapers with you. Also, reduce your shopping list to contribute to a stress-free holiday experience.
- Select a child-friendly inn
Always book a family-friendly hotel if you’re traveling with yours. Don’t hesitate to spend more on getting safe accommodations since you can’t compromise your children’s safety. Find places such as Gatlinburg Hotels with attractions and outdoor amenities (e.g., a swimming pool) for your kids. You should discover nearby parks and playgrounds for the little ones. Remember to check your hotel’s online reviews and inquire the staff about their security measures.
- Bring your smartphone
Smartphones aren’t a luxury anymore. Instead, they’ve become a necessity. You can’t leave your home to visit a distant place without any means of communication with your friends. Emergencies often arrive unannounced, so you need a device for reliable communication if disaster befalls. You also require your phone to call Uber or Lyft or consult Google Maps if you’re lost. You can also acquire local SIM cards and buy a cheap gadget for temporary usage during an international stay.
- Limit your screen time
But do remember to limit your screen time and spend more time with people. You can surf the internet on your phone while at home. Vacation means to immerse yourself in nature and shower in the freshness of the environment. So, decrease your attachment with that device and convince your children to detach themselves from their phones too. Encourage them to pursue some other means of entertainment other than scrolling on social media apps.
- Get travel insurance
Don’t forget to get travel insurance since there’s no knowing if a family member gets injured during your trip. Just knowing that your medical expenses during the expedition are covered makes you feel secure about the journey. If an accident forces your family to cut the trip short, travel insurance can get your money back through a refund. That’s why insurance is essential to make the most of a family vacation, especially when coronavirus happens to be on the rise again.
- Check travel health notices
The coronavirus pandemic seems far from over. It would be best if you choose your destination wisely, considering the safety of the entire family. Always check for government-issued warnings before planning your next journey. Confirming travel health notices will keep you stay informed regarding which tourist locations are safe for travel. Avoiding unnecessary trips becomes necessary when your children might get exposed to a dangerous infection.
- Share with a bit of care
People like sharing important events of their life with friends on social media. But this practice can become toxic and harmful if you don’t share it safely. Don’t give out your private information and be careful when you post a picture of your children. Ensure that you’re not sharing your current whereabouts and plans with random strangers. It would be best to wait until you return before your upload all the clicks online.
- Make your trip feel like home
You’re escaping from the mundane domestic routine every household is accustomed to, but that doesn’t mean leaving the “home” behind. You can resurrect the family traditions even during a vacation. Get your child’s favorite stuffed animal, your wife’s most cherished books, and coffee your family is familiar with on this trip. Don’t forget to continue reading to your kids before bedtime or listening to the same soothing whale music before going to sleep at night.
Conclusion
Why does an average American even travel? The United States Travel Association published a report in 2018 exploring this very question. The report revealed that 85% of people sought trips because their children were excited about a possible getaway. Moreover, 65% of them wanted to strengthen their ties with friends or family. And, as parents, your priority is to keep everyone happy and entertained throughout the journey. These nine tips will help you achieve this purpose and make this journey a memorable event for your kids. Just remember to make safety a top priority since the threat from COVID-19 isn’t over yet. So, add one more tip to the list: consulting the family doctor before leaving.
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