Family vacations change from year to year given the ages of the family members, circumstances related to the family and the world in general, finances, interests, and more. I'm thinking about what makes a successful family vacation.
Comfort
When people are comfortable, they tend to enjoy a vacation more. Comfort requirements will change from year to year and person to person, but in general having a good place to sleep, relax and enjoy each other's company provides needed comfort.
Healthy, nutritious foods
It's important to understand the food sensitivities and needs of the group you're vacationing with, and then shop/cook and make reservations so those needs are met.
Enjoyable activities
Similar to surveying the group about foods, it's good to find out what people like to do and offer a menu of activities that include activities everyone can participate in and activities that only some may choose.
Loose-tight schedule
Typically a loose-tight schedule spells a good vacation. With this kind of schedule, you ensure that there are times and activities where everyone will be together and then plenty of time when people can choose their own activities. Every family will differ when it comes to what works in terms of small group-alone-whole group time, but in general, it's good to have some of each on a family vacation.
Cost
A family vacation is no fun if everyone is worried about the cost of the trip. If possible, it's good to pay for as much as you can prior to the trip as well as to plan a trip that fits into your budget. Good ways to have fun and not spend too much including cooking at home, healthy inexpensive activities such as hikes, board games, visits to local/state/national parks and beaches, and choosing a place where you can ride bikes or walk rather than always hop into a car or have to use other kinds of transportation.
Flexibility
No vacation will go exactly as planned so plan to be flexible.
Prioritize
Think about what's really important to you for the vacation and give a few items on your list top priority so you're not disappointed.
Great family vacations create wonderful memories that strengthen family ties. Taking the time to plan well, be flexible, and know what it is you hope for will help the vacation to be one of those memory-making times. Onward.
