7 Ideas to Help You Relax and Unwind on a Family Vacation

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Taking a vacation sounds like a great idea at first, but the reality is that taking your kids means still having to parent them somewhere else. Still, it’s entirely possible to relax even when the whole family joins you on the excursion. Here are 7 ideas to help you relax and unwind on a family vacation.

1. Be Prepared

Few things are more stressful than not being prepared for your vacation until the last minute. You’ve just had a long week of work, and now you’re facing a long drive or plane ride ahead with a lot still to do. Vacation is supposed to be about decompressing, but it still requires mindful preparation. Be sure to book your resort accommodations and make dining reservations in advance.

2. Choose the Right Destination

With so many vacation pictures on social media, it’s hard not to feel jealous and restless at the thought of missing out. But before you jump into these same destinations to “catch up,” take a breath and think about the kind of place where you would be most relaxed. Remember, vacation is all about you!

3. Unpack When You Arrive

Just as it’s best to pack for your destination early, you should also unpack your things right away. Just because you’re living out of a suitcase this week doesn’t mean you have to take it literally, especially when kids are involved. Unpack your belongings and organize them into the hotel drawers. Store the bags away, and then have fun!

4. Schedule Activities in Balance

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Of course, family vacations are about spending time together, but not getting a break can also lead to excessive tension and arguments. The kids also need some downtime, so be sure to include a relaxing activity in the evening, such as watching a movie together or going out for dinner.

5. Put the Phone Away

It’s all too easy to check social media or catch up on work emails now that we have small computers in our pockets, but it’s essential to resist the temptation when you’re in a restful environment. Unless there’s an emergency, make it a priority to disconnect from the internet and focus on each other instead.

6. Get Plenty of Sleep

Rest is usually the first thing to go when you get busy in everyday life, especially when kids are involved. But when you’re on vacation, don’t miss the opportunity to take full advantage of your ability to sleep in.

7. Include a Buffer Day

If you plan activities through your last day, you’ll likely find yourself scrambling to get packed up again. Avoid the stress and include a down day where all you have to worry about is getting ready to come back home at a leisurely pace.

A little perspective always helps. Traveling with the whole family is a different kind of travel experience than traveling alone, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up tropical drinks or wandering through beautiful streets at night. After all, it’s all about disconnecting from daily life, not each other.