Secrets for enjoying a fun and relaxing family vacation

CONSIDER STAYING PUT

What if you could treat your family to a fun vacation without paying for flights, racing through the airport, or fighting jet lag? If this sounds like a dream come true, consider swapping your family trip for a staycation right here in Chicago. Get your family out of the house and stay somewhere nearby to get away from the stress of home life for a while. Book a vacation rental in a neighborhood that you would like to explore more with your family. Turnkey recommends a place near one of Chicago’s many attractions, including Navy Pier and the incredible museums the city has to offer. Try to find a rental with a kitchen, so you have the freedom to cook your own meals — this will help you save even more money on your “getaway.” You can also bring along games the whole family will enjoy, just in case the weather keeps you from exploring.

GET YOUR KIDS INVOLVED IN THE PLANNING

One of the best ways to get your kids excited about your trip is to get them involved in the planning. Children of all ages can contribute; if you have very young children, come up with a few activities for them to choose from. You could also show your kids photos of some accommodation options and allow them to make the final decision. Teenagers can play a more active role in your planning process, researching destinations and activities on their own and coming to you with their ideas. When you let your kids get involved in planning your adventure, they will feel more ownership over the trip and may even remember it better when they grow up!

TRY TO BE FLEXIBLE

When planning your trip, try to stay away from strict scheduling. It will be hard for you to enjoy the attractions and activities if you’re constantly rushing to get to the next one. Instead, be flexible and allow for spontaneity. According to The Points Guy, knowing when to be flexible on your vacation is essential for walking the fine line between fun activities and relaxation. For example, if your family is exhausted after a long day exploring a new city, consider staying in your rental for the evening instead of dragging your feet through the next thing on your list. Some of the best moments on your vacation might just happen during periods of downtime.

TEACH YOUR KIDS TO PACK LIGHT

Packing light is a great way to control stress on your family trip. When everyone has just one bag, it’s much easier to manage your luggage and find important things during your travels — like that toy that your child is screaming for on the airplane. Try to have your entire family pack carry-on bags only so you can avoid the added stress of checking your bag and locating it after your flight. This will also help you save money! According to Conde Nast Traveler, the key to packing light is to stick to neutral-colored clothing so you can mix and match outfits.

BE PREPARED FOR POTENTIAL DISASTERS

If you’re worried about the health and well-being of your children on your trip, take some time to make an illness contingency plan. Pack a first aid kit along to treat any health-related problems that may occur on your vacation. You may also want to research your destination ahead of time and make a note of nearby hospitals and doctor’s offices, so you’ll know where to go in an emergency. Don’t forget to get travel insurance as well! These steps can set your mind at ease so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Traveling with your kids is an amazing way to make memories and form strong bonds with your loved ones. Be ready for potential disasters, and try to relax when things don’t go quite as planned. While your trip may be filled with uncertainty, it’s bound to be a fulfilling adventure!