What You Need to Know to Plan a BIG Family Vacation

Categories

If you dream of traveling somewhere with your extended family on a vacation that’s all about connection and extraordinary memories, then it’s time to start planning. To help ensure your family vacation is easy and fun for everyone, here are the questions to ask and the mistakes to avoid when planning a multi-generational family vacation.

What one word describes your ideal family vacation? 

Before you even get into the logistics, it is very important to uncover your vision for this vacation. What does your family need right now? How can a vacation help you achieve this? Do you want to spend quality time together, unplug, relax, and reconnect? Or do you want to explore, learn, and have tons of adventures? Are you celebrating? Know your “why” for vacation. This will help you shape a travel experience that is meaningful for everyone. Choosing one “theme word” for your vacation ensures your trip planning stays focused on your vision. 

What is everyone’s availability?

Are their busy seasons at work? Do school vacation schedules limit availability for any family members?  Are there any family obligations such as weddings that can’t be missed?

 

What are the demographics in your family? 

This is especially important if you’re traveling with grandparents or older relatives who use mobility aids like canes or scooters. Will you have adults that will need to work while on vacation? Will you need baby accessories like cribs or high chairs?  Keep in mind any family members with special needs or little ones who get tired quickly. Don’t choose accommodations or a vacation style that make some family members feel left out of the fun.

What ages—and developmental stages—are in your family?

This question mostly applies to the kids on vacation. A thrilling zipline adventure through the jungle for a teen is a total nightmare for a 5-year-old. Depending on where they are developmentally, some activities kids can’t handle on vacation.  Don’t set the stage for a stressful time by choosing a vacation the kids aren’t old enough to enjoy yet.

How much independence do family members want on vacation?

Quality time together is important, but so is “me time.” If you’re traveling with grandparents, aunts, cousins, etc., consider properties that offer each family unit their own space with central areas where everyone can gather together.  Also, keep in mind tweens and teens crave a bit more independence. That’s hard to give them on a guided tour through Europe. But cruises with teen clubs or villas with separate hangout spaces might be better options.

 

The next question is awkward and uncomfortable for some people. But if you want a big multi-generational family vacation to go smoothly, you have to talk about money, or you’ll be stuck trying to manage vastly different expectations.

 

The “money question” is really a discussion.  Here are a few cash-related questions to settle:

• Who is paying? Sometimes, grandparents or other family members cover more of the cost.
• How much can everyone afford?
• What level of accommodations will satisfy everyone? If you have 5-star lovers and others happy to go camping, you may need to compromise. 
• What’s the actual total trip cost? This goes beyond just flights and accommodations. Be sure to consider transfers, excursions, meals, and insurance which all add up.
• Look at what experiences are included in the vacation and what is an additional cost. Decide what each traveler will pay for on their own. This is an excellent way to manage different budgets. Not everyone has to participate in the incredible yet expensive helicopter tour.

 

Other questions to consider:

• How far is everyone willing to travel?
• Have you planned something everyone will enjoy?
• Do other family members want to help with planning? How will your family manage different ideas and expectations?

 

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Not designating a decision-maker. How many times have you been part of a group that has decision paralysis?  Just ask the question, “Where does everyone want to go to dinner,” and you might be deciding until breakfast.
• Avoiding discussions about money.
• Not giving yourself enough time to plan in advance.
• Not buying tickets in advance to must-see places or activities. If you wait until you get there, you might be out of luck or be stuck in line for hours, especially with a large group.  

 

There is a lot to consider when you’re planning a multi-generational family vacation. So what is our #1 tip for planning a big group or multi-generational vacation? Hire a professional Travel Advisor who will handle all of the planning for you! You will be free to relax and enjoy time with those you love with the help of a Travel Advisor. 

I love helping family and friends spend quality time with loved ones on amazing vacations. Do you want help putting a big family vacation together? 

 

SCHEDULE YOUR FAMILY VACATION PLANNING SESSION