Many people know what it’s like to go on vacation with their friends or other adults. It tends to be flexible, free, and never really tied to certain schedules outside of attending the events you hope to see. For example, a childfree couple with two incomes to enjoy can pretty much do whatever they want within reason, be they hope to hike a long distance and stay in hostels, or rent out expensive hotel rooms and enjoy the lap of luxury.
When having children and starting a family, life changes. This much is obvious. However, you’ll also find small differences that make a difference worth considering too, such as how vacationing as a family will often put limits and restrictions on what you can do and how you can travel. These changes are necessary for the well-being of your child, and of course, that’s not a sacrifice, because making memories with your family unit, caring for your little one, and enjoying a different style of vacation is just as wonderful, if not more so.
In this post, we’ll help you make the most of that by discussing the three necessities that change when you vacation as a family:
Your Ideal Accommodations Change
Before, you might have enjoyed camping, taking time in small hotels, using hostels to save money, or simply traveling and staying at friends’ houses here, there, and everywhere. When you have a family, those norms change. You need ample space in your hotel, and also may require further flexibility like extended stays offered by ROOST Cleveland. Hotels designed for families are also more important, as having the space to set up your travel cot or the appropriate facilities like diaper-changing stations is key.
Staycations Will Seem More Pleasing
Babies and young children can do airplanes, but they’re rarely super happy with the idea, and can become frustrated quickly. This is why many families will opt for more flexible methods, like heading on Staycations within the country, heading to wonderful lodges, driving to see friends, or simply heading to the coast closest to you. This way, you may also be able to afford more vacations in one year, which is certainly worth it to get away from your usual routine and relax, nourishing your entire family unit with a needed break.
You’ll Consider Accessibility More Often
Accessibility is essential for those who may have reduced capabilities, but that’s not all it’s for. Families require accessibility too, from ramps for pushchairs, conveniences for children when needed, and experiences that are digestible and understandable for them to deal with. So for example, you might not head into the dungeon area of a local castle you’re exploring due to the spooky ghost holograms being shown, and reading the program ahead of time will help you see that. But of course, accessibility can also mean dietary needs (which is why checking this ahead of time is important), and even making sure the venue accepts children in the first place. Don’t be afraid to ask online or call the venue up in advance to be certain of any questions you need to ask.
With this advice, you’re sure to vacation as a family in the healthiest possible manner.
I live in a small Georgia town that you most likely have never heard of and I LOVE it! My house is more than full as I am a single mother of four & caregiver to my aging mother and uncle. Lover of all things Outlander. Goes to the beat of her own drum woman.
Tina F says
These are great tips. Vacations can be so stressful. Making sure everyone has some space is great advice.
Marisela Zuniga says
These are so true but I love traveling with my kids and making memories with them
Rita Wray says
When my kids were young I loved going on vacation. Seeing them happy made my day.
Kim Henrichs says
These are excellent tips!
Bea LaRocca says
All of these things and more come into play when you are vacationing with family, especially with younger children. Thank you for sharing this post
Suzie B says
Very true! Things do really change when you factor kids into the vacation planning – it takes more prep, for sure
heather says
This is a great post for new parents to read and keep in mind when taking a vacation.