Every holiday you do the same thing. You decorate the house, bring in family and friends, cook a feast or two, and celebrate another year on the calendar. While it’s an exciting season, the rinse-lather-repeat of the holidays can become dull. Do something different this year and plan a family holiday trip! Traveling around the holidays can be a daunting idea, but with these helpful tips, you can plan a fun escape without the stress.
Research the Deals First
There are so many different ways to find last-minute deals, holiday discounts, and flight sales online. Skyscanner, Expedia, TripAdvisor, and TravelZoo are all great ways to search for your perfect getaway. Try not to be committed to just one location. There could be inexpensive flights into a city you’ve never considered. Think outside the box and instead of chasing a deal, allow the deal to come to you. There’s plenty of family packages out there in fun locations that may not be on your radar. Also, don’t mention any trip ideas to the kids without having all of the logistics nailed down. It’s hard to tell them that Disney is off the table after the seed has been planted. Keep it to yourselves until you know for sure.
Balance Free Time and Activities
Once you’ve found the right location with the right flight at the right price, you can start to plan what you’ll do on the trip. Many travel blogs and websites will promote private tours, visits to historical sites, and group activities that you can schedule before you get there. Having a few of these planned is a great idea. It helps to keep the kids entertained, and it’s a terrific way to explore your chosen location. However, too many planned activities can make your vacation feel like work. Remember to plan time to relax, unwind, and do absolutely nothing. Waking up and knowing that you have nowhere to be at no particular time is a very liberating experience! Allow the family to enjoy themselves independently and remember to give yourself a break.
Don’t Overpack
When getting ready for the family trip, deciding on what to pack can be tough. Many parents will overpack in preparation for anything and everything. Too many clothes can be unnecessary, especially when most resorts have laundry services on-site or locally. Electronic devices and toys can be a distraction from nature or fun activities offered at your hotel or resort. Some of the best family resorts in Minnesota offer beautiful hikes, fishing, or boating. Just bring the essentials and leave the screens at home. Allow the entire family to have a break from everyday life and disconnect somewhere fun this year.