Traveling with a large family is fun but chaotic!

You have tons of personalities and preferences to juggle! 

How can you visit the museum when everyone else is screaming for an amusement park? How will the expenses be split? Where to find accommodation big enough for everyone?

Preparation is the key to smoother sailing (or vacationing, in this case). Planning a successful vacation with your family, mainly when it’s a big one, comes down to creating an organized itinerary. But that’s not all.

So, if you’re ready for an experience that’s equal parts exciting and memorable, here are some strategies for a family vacation done right.

Choosing a Destination:

You’ll want to take into consideration the preferences of everyone in your family. Decide on a location that can provide activities for all age groups, from trekking to wine tasting. It is the trickiest part because everyone has their “perfect” spot in mind. But you can devise a good compromise by seeking destinations that fulfill everyone’s needs and wants.

The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee, offer endless possibilities if you’re looking for options, especially for a road trip in the USA. The kids can enjoy tubing, zip lining, and whitewater rafting. At the same time, the adults can explore beautiful hiking trails and historical landmarks. If your family feels the “oomph” is missing, take everyone for some fun and thrill on the Smoky Mountain coasters and Alpine slides!

But, if you’re up to something more unique, snorkeling with humpback whales can be an incredible experience for both kids and adults. The clear waters and stunning marine life can create unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Booking Accommodation:

Accommodations can make or break your vacation. Who wants to sleep in a springy bed and shower in an unhygienic washroom? With large families, booking a hotel can be costly, and you may not find one big enough. That’s why we recommend renting a cabin or house.

You can easily find rental apartments with two, three, or even more bedrooms. You’ll also get a full kitchen and amenities like a backyard, pool, or hot tub. Some cabins also let you bring your furry members along. There are also cabins like the Moonlight Lodge in Big Sky that offer luxurious mountain accommodations, allowing you to enjoy activities such as skiing and hiking in the highest level of comfort and style. Now, that’s what you call a perfect family getaway!

But before you make a reservation, read the reviews and be sure you clearly understand the cancellation policy in case something goes wrong.

Pre-Trip Preparations:

Get your vacation off to the right start by packing thoughtfully. Put together a list of essential items. Also, check the forecast as you plan outfits for everyone in the family. That way, no one will fight over missing clothing or accessories!

Some can’t-miss items include a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellents, and umbrellas for the rain. 

Also, carry snacks and drinks to keep everyone’s energy up while on the road.

You must also ensure you have all the required documents for a hassle-free journey, such as your driver’s license and health insurance cards. 

Keep Your Itinerary Limited and Be Flexible:

With a large family, you may be tempted to plan out every minute of the trip. Don’t! Give everyone some free time so they can relax and explore on their own. 

Take into account different personalities and ages when planning activities for your group. You could also encourage family members to come up with ideas that would suit the entire group. If the teens are interested in a night out, plan a fun café crawl that everyone can enjoy.

It’s also a good idea to keep the activities minimal. For instance, keep the trail short and simple if you’re hiking. It’ll help avoid any potential meltdowns and ensure everyone has enough energy to enjoy the day’s events.

Budgeting:

The bane of every family vacation is the budget. You don’t want to come off as miserly, but at the same time, you need to be mindful of everyone’s pocket. To avoid breaking the bank and fueling family feuds, set a budget before planning the trip.

Decide how much you will spend on transportation, accommodation, and activities. Then compare prices from different vendors to get the best deals. And lastly, give everyone an allowance to use as per their discretion.

Consider taking a road trip if your budget is limited but your desires are strong. You can take a rental car for traveling at an affordable price. This is the most appropriate option for you. you can find the greatest rental services on this website Breezyrentals.They provides automobile services at a low cost. They provide environmentally friendly choices for cars, SUVs, 4WDs, and people movers. That way, you can save on airfare, stay in budget motels, or camp out at scenic spots. You can also consider traveling during the shoulder season when rates tend to be lower.

Visit the Doctor Before the Trip:

Trust us; travel flu is a real thing, and it can ruin your entire trip. No one wants to return halfway because one family member caught a cold or fever. And stomach bugs? No, no one wants to experience that either. So, ensure everyone is vaccinated and up to date on their shots before you leave for your family vacation.

If there are any underlying or chronic health conditions, carry the necessary medicines and discuss with your doctor how to manage them. For instance, if someone in your group has diabetes, plan healthy meals and bring snacks that won’t spike their blood sugar levels.

It’s also safe to keep a few contact numbers handy in emergencies.

Wrapping Up:

The biggest takeaway here is to plan and be prepared. And most importantly, enjoy your family vacation! Laugh uncontrollably, take plenty of pictures, and make precious memories that will last a lifetime.

Oh, and don’t forget to bring home souvenirs for everyone! That’ll put a smile on those faces who couldn’t come along.

We hope our tips will help you plan a successful family trip. Bon Voyage!