7 Points to Help You Choose a Family Holiday Destination

Traveling during the holidays may be one of the most stressful times of the year. But it could also be one of the best times of the year. Why? Because you get to spend quality time with loved ones and make memories that will last a lifetime.

But how do you choose a family holiday destination? No matter if you have toddlers, teens, parents, or grandparents, you can plan a vacation that everyone will enjoy. All you have to do is take into consideration ages and interests. Read on to discover the finer points of choosing a family holiday destination. This year’s vacation may be better than last year’s.

How to Choose a Holiday Destination for the Entire Family

Think about the Amount of Your Vacation Time

How much vacation time do you and your kids get? For example, if your kids only get a week off [most get two weeks], you may choose to stay at a fun resort, like Great Wolf Lodge. If you get more time off, you may consider a European holiday vacation. Knowing how much time you have will affect whether or not you can meet your holiday vacation goal.

Consider When You Want to Travel

Some parents sign their kids out of school a week before their family holiday vacation begins. Consider how this will affect your children’s grades and homework. To avoid the headache and hassle of long lines and frustrated travelers, you may consider traveling on Thanksgiving and/or Christmas. Check schedules and choose the best time to travel.

Travel Abroad or Stay Home

How old are your kids? Have they traveled before? Will they sit through an 8-10 hour flight? How about a 5-10 hour road trip? Are you bringing your dog or cat (may want to hire a pet sitter)? Consider everyone’s needs, likes, and dislikes. Comfort is important. If your child or children are prone to screaming, you may want to stay home or take a shorter air or road trip. Keep in mind that most people have smartphones and record whatever happens in the air. Many air captains have turned an airplane around or refused to leave because of unruly passengers. You know your family best. Choose whether you stay home or travel abroad.

Adventure Travel or Touristy Vacation

If this is your first family holiday vacation, you may want to choose a destination with many tourist attractions, from castles to museums, ancient ruins and historic buildings. If you want a little adventure, you may choose a destination with outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing. Of course, you may consider luxuries such as spas and shopping. Choose a destination that will offer something for everyone.

Warm or Cold Climate

It’s important to choose a climate that’s suitable for everyone. Do you want a ski or beach vacation? Think about everyone’s tastes and abilities. While you may love to swish down the slopes, your parents may prefer relaxing on a sandy beach. If you have smaller children, consider activities available to them. A Caribbean holiday vacation is different from going to Walt Disney World.

Consider Transportation

If you fly, will you take a taxi to the airport, have someone drop you off, use public transportation, or hire a car service? If you’re taking a road trip, will you use your vehicle or rent one? If you’re traveling by train, what manner of transportation will you use at your destination? Rental car or subway? If you’re taking a cruise vacation, are you booking tours for each stop? Will you hire a driver? Knowing how you’ll get around will help you determine your family holiday destination accommodation.

Think about Your Budget

Some destinations are more expensive than others, so consider your family holiday vacation budget. If you plan on traveling throughout the year, you may want to travel for a shorter period of time during the holidays. If this is your first holiday vacation, you may want to go all out. Only you know the amount of money you want to spend.

Take a Family Holiday Vacation That Everyone Will Love

Knowing what you want out of your family holiday vacation will help you narrow down destinations. To get more vacation ideas, you may think about past holidays and what made them fun and special. Whatever you do, consider ages, vacation time, interests, and personalities. However, following the points above will help you select the best holiday destination for your family. Call your TPI travel agent and book your vacation today!
by Amandah T. Blackwell, Savvy-Writer