{"id":1786,"date":"2017-03-11T14:16:43","date_gmt":"2017-03-11T22:16:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.workparentsleep.com\/?p=1786"},"modified":"2021-04-27T08:59:31","modified_gmt":"2021-04-27T16:59:31","slug":"planning-an-unforgettable-family-vacation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/workparentsleep.com\/planning-an-unforgettable-family-vacation\/","title":{"rendered":"Planning an Unforgettable Family Vacation"},"content":{"rendered":"

One of the reasons we work is to provide for and take care of our families; but, as we all know, sometimes you just need a break<\/em>— a\u00a0break from the emails and the office hours, a break from tasks and to-dos. \u00a0So, what do you do? \u00a0Taking a family vacation is a great way to not only use some of that building PTO, but it also allows you to introduce the kids and family to a new landmark, attraction, or just blow off some steam! \u00a0To ensure that the time spent on vacation actually involves vacationing, you want to plan ahead of time and make sure all of your ducks are in a row.<\/p>\n

Who is coming on the trip?<\/h1>\n

It seems like a simple enough question, but the answer will help determine the what, where, and how! \u00a0Is this trip going to be family only? Are we bringing the kids or is this just for the parents? \u00a0Will grandparents come along and might they potentially watch the kids for portions of the trip? \u00a0Knowing who is going will help you understand if you have to plan around a school vacation, any work conflicts, or if you need to find a babysitter.<\/p>\n

What is our budget?<\/h1>\n

Before putting on your idea hat, make sure that you know your budget. \u00a0Deciding between an exciting new\u00a0destination or trying out a stay-cation\u00a0comes down to dollars and cents. \u00a0Are we flying? Are we driving? \u00a0We all want to get to our vacation destination as fast as possible, but sometimes you can save quite a bit by adding a short layover or driving (as long as the family party can handle a moderate length car ride). \u00a0Sitting down with the other family members who are financing the trip to come up with a budget beforehand will keep you from overspending when a shiny brochure\u00a0gets you wide-eyed for Disneyland glory.<\/p>\n

What is our destination?<\/h1>\n

This can change depending on who you have chosen\u00a0for your travel companions and your budget. \u00a0There are other factors that can be taken into consideration such as the time of year, weather reports, and length of your time off of work. \u00a0Consider if you want to go somewhere new and branch off or stick to the familiar family spots.<\/p>\n

\"Different<\/p>\n

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What will our accommodations be?<\/h1>\n

Whether you are staying at a 5-star hotel, an RV park, or a resort, coordinating lodging for any sized group can sometimes be a hassle. \u00a0So, deciding early where you want to stay is key to a successful family vacation. \u00a0If you are staying in multiple cities you will want to plan and reserve your lodging ahead of time, in case your ideal locations fill up.<\/p>\n

How will we get around?<\/h1>\n

Sometimes renting a car is not always the most cost-efficient way to get around on your family vacation. \u00a0You will want to start by looking at the distance between your hotel or lodging and the main activities you have planned. \u00a0When it comes to traveling from the airport to your lodging, you often have an option for a free shuttle if you are staying at a larger commercial hotel. \u00a0If you find yourself staying near your destination, two very popular options to consider are Uber<\/a>\u00a0or taxis. \u00a0For our family, we have found that Uber tends to be not only the quickest but most convenient and affordable. \u00a0Being able to use the Android or iOS app and track where the car is and how far away is awesome, and the fares are really great. \u00a0We have a special promo code for Work Parent Sleep you can use,uberworkparentsleep<\/strong>,\u00a0that will get you $20 off your first ride when signing up. \u00a0You can also use our Uber sign-up link<\/a>\u00a0as well to receive the free $20 off your first ride. \u00a0If you are new to Uber this would be a perfect way to try it out.<\/p>\n

\"Should<\/p>\n

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How much stuff do we want to bring?<\/h1>\n

Carry-ons only for the long flight to avoid checked baggage fees or big suitcases in the trunk for a drive to the neighboring state? \u00a0No matter the destination or duration of your family trip, you will most likely have to bring supplies for the family. \u00a0These can include clothing and shoes, as well as add on items like electronics and\/or camping equipment. \u00a0Make sure your travel accessories don’t incur you additional costs and confirm that you can fit them in whatever means of transportation you have.<\/p>\n

Luggage<\/h3>\n

There is a growing trend of travelers like my mom who refuse to check in baggage and it’s completely understandable. \u00a0As we all have experienced, airlines are now using baggage fees to increase revenue. \u00a0For our family, this is one of the main reasons we like to fly Southwest. \u00a0They have an easy check-in policy and allow 2 free check-in bags. \u00a0Check out our article on Airline Carry-On and Baggage Fees<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>that breaks down each airline’s individual baggage fees.<\/p>\n

For those interested in making the most of the space in your baggage, consider using packing cubes. \u00a0Packing cubes are zippered fabric pouches that can be used to separate clothing and other travel items easily. \u00a0If traveling to several cities on a stay, one packing cube can be used for each destination; or, packing cubes can separate out clean items from items that need to be laundered during vacation. \u00a0They also help to make the most of the space available; we recommend rolling clothing up while using your package cubes. \u00a0For a\u00a0 great set of packing cubes from Amazon, try the\u00a0AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set<\/a> which are sturdy, reliable, and reasonably priced. \u00a0 They also make great gifts for travel-minded family and friends.<\/p>\n

Planning our activities<\/h1>\n

Now that we have our destination, what are we going to do? Are we looking to visit historical sites? Do we want to go to a commercial attraction location such as Six Flags or Disneyland? \u00a0 When planning a family vacation one of the most important things you will decide are the things you will do once you are there. \u00a0Get inspiration and ideas from the family members that are traveling with you, as picking activities that everyone is interested in will create a better environment. \u00a0No one wants to have 1 member of the family sulking because they hate rollercoasters and the vacation plan is for\u00a03 days at the theme park!<\/p>\n

Book your trip in advance<\/h1>\n

Whether the flights, lodging, or activity passes, you need to make sure to reserve your spots well ahead of time if possible. \u00a0This saves you money, secures your travel arrangements, and puts your mind at ease as you get closer to the big date.<\/p>\n

Flights<\/h3>\n

When it comes to booking flights, the key rule to remember is the longer you wait, the more expensive it will be. There have been countless times I have told myself “I will just wait and book tomorrow,” and was then shocked to see the price of each flight ticket go up by a couple hundred dollars the next day.<\/p>\n

Hotel\/Lodging<\/h3>\n

Nowadays there are multiple options for lodging on a family vacation. \u00a0We have stayed everywhere from small, locally owned bed and breakfasts to large resorts. \u00a0Generally, we try to keep our lodging prices to a minimum so we can spend more money and time enjoying the trip, not cooped up in our rooms.<\/p>\n

There are many times where Airbnb<\/a>\u00a0may be the best fit for your family vacation. \u00a0Airbnb is the Uber of lodging. \u00a0It is an online marketplace allowing people to list or rent short-term lodging including vacation rentals, apartment rentals, homestays, hostel beds, and hotel rooms. \u00a0All listings are provided by the owners, so you are not actually renting from Airbnb. \u00a0We have used this multiple times including our 2-week stay in Miami. \u00a0We not only saved a ton of money as the price per day can be quite affordable, but had the luxury of a full kitchen, dining room, and general house amenities at our disposal. \u00a0Something to keep in mind is that you may also find Airbnb properties closer to your destinations than hotels, which can cut down on transportation costs.<\/p>\n

Activities<\/h3>\n

There are times when purchasing tickets ahead of time, or reserving your spot is required for smaller activities or places with limited capacity. \u00a0The\u00a0BIGGEST\u00a0<\/strong>reason to book your activities in advance is for the discounts! \u00a0We have found a couple of easy ways to save on your trip activities.<\/p>\n