How to Plan a Family Trip Everyone Will Enjoy

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Planning a family trip is daunting – you must keep everyone’s interests, stamina, and ages in mind. Finding a spot that meets everyone’s needs can be difficult, but with careful planning and finding the right destination, you can have a trip that will have a special place in your families memories for years to come. Here’s how to plan the ultimate family vacation. 

1. Choose a Destination That Appeals to All Ages

While a week at a wellness center may sound perfect to you, your five-year-old and teenager likely won’t feel the same way. When choosing a destination, find a family-friendly destination with diverse activities everyone can enjoy. Look for places that combine a mix of adventure, culture, plus downtime options. 

Don’t forget to factor in travel time. Younger kids won’t appreciate having to get on a bus or train for hours at a time every day of travel, and heading somewhere that requires multiple layovers can add stress to the trip. Pick a destination you can fly nonstop to avoid running around the airport for a layover. If nonstop flights aren’t an option, ensure a longer layover so you don’t have to rush to your second flight. 

2. Get Everyone Involved in the Planning Process

Before you choose your destination, get the family involved to choose your spot. Have a few destinations for everyone to discuss going to. When the kids get older, you can hold a vote. As kids get older, you can assign them tasks in the planning. Each child can have one day to choose what to do. The day they are assigned, they get to choose the attraction or activity and where to eat. 

Have an evening where you can all explore travel guides and online tools to explore the options together. Getting the kids excited about where they are going will make a huge difference in the success of your trip. 

3. Plan an Itinerary with Variety and Flexibility

A balanced itinerary is key when traveling with family- especially when younger children are included. Try to balance sightseeing with downtime to avoid the burnout that can come with a packed itinerary. You will want to include activities that everyone will enjoy- try a museum one day, an amusement park the next day, and always try to plan outdoor time even when you plan on heading to an indoor attraction for the day. On days you plan on being inside, try to plan an outdoor adventure for the evening to let some energy out. 

Always have backup plans for outdoor activities, and be flexible in case of weather or other unexpected changes. 

4. Choose Accommodations That Work for Families

Luxury hotels may be tempting, but many are not exactly family-friendly. When traveling with my two kids, I prefer staying in suites that have kitchenettes and separate sleeping areas, or staying at a vacation rental that offers plenty of space. Pools are also at the top of my list, as they are great for expelling that energy after a long day of sightseeing. Look for hotels with kid-friendly perks like complimentary breakfasts or play areas. 

Some of our favorite family-friendly hotel brands include Marriot Bonvoy Residence Inn and SpringHill Suites, Hyatt Place, Hilton Embassy Suites, and Homewood Suites. Four Seasons Hotels are great for kids if you are looking for luxury. 

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5. Pack Smart and Prepare for the Unexpected

Booking your trip is only the beginning of planning a trip everyone will enjoy. Once the flights and hotel are booked and your activities are planned, you need to make a packing list. I find it helpful to create one for each family member, as each person has different needs. Be sure to pack for every scenario: rain gear, sunblock, sunglasses, sunscreen, and extra layers in case it gets cold. This way, your vacation isn’t ruined when the weather is unexpected. 

Make copies of all necessary documents, passports, IDs, and any other travel documents you need. 

6. Keep Travel Days Stress-Free

Travel days can be stressful; there is always a lot of waiting, and sitting in a car, plane, or train can get kids antsy. In addition to planning realistic transit times and breaks, pack games, books, and other items to keep them entertained. Tablets are ideal, as they can provide multiple modes of entertainment: books, games, and movies.  Another favorite hack of mine is making a “snackle box” for each of my kids. It keeps them occupied and saves them from asking for a new snack every ten minutes. 

While there is a lot we can control when traveling, there is also a lot we can’t. Have a strategy ready for when there is a delay or when the inevitable meltdown comes. Keep a special surprise hidden away for these times, or, avoid screen time until these issues arise. Being prepared will make the trip enjoyable for everyone. 

7. Balance Family Time and Individual Time

While vacations are excellent for togetherness, sometimes too much time together can be a lot. Try to schedule in time for solo or couple activities. If no kids club or babysitting is available, find time for each adult to go off on their own. When traveling with teens, give them supervised freedom – like when you are at a museum, set a meeting spot in an hour, and let them explore independently. Giving them this freedom can alleviate the boredom and annoyance most teens feel while spending quality time with family. 

8. Make Room for Spontaneity and Fun

Be sure not to over-schedule your vacation. Leave plenty of space for impromptu discoveries or recommendations from locals. It helps to have a few key attractions in mind, but every night or every morning, plan what you will do next. 

Best Family Trip Destinations

1. Orlando, Florida – Best for Amusement Park Loving Families

• Why? Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other top theme parks, Orlando is a dream destination for families.
• Highlights: Magic Kingdom, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, LEGOLAND, Kennedy Space Center.
• Bonus: Plenty of family-friendly resorts with pools and kids’ activities.

2. London, England – Best for Families with Older Kids

• Why? A mix of history, entertainment, and iconic landmarks make London an excellent choice for families of all ages.
• Highlights: Tower of London, Harry Potter Studio Tour, Natural History Museum, London Zoo.
• Bonus: Easy public transportation and plenty of green spaces for kids to run around.

3. Costa Rica – Best for Adventure Loving Families

• Why? Costa Rica is an eco-adventure paradise perfect for families who love wildlife, beaches, and outdoor activities.
• Highlights: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park, and family-friendly hot springs.
• Bonus: Many resorts and lodges cater to families with adventure tours and kids’ programs.

4. Tokyo, Japan – Best Family Trip to Asia 

• Why? Tokyo blends culture, technology, and fun attractions that kids and adults will love.
• Highlights: Tokyo Disneyland, Ghibli Museum, TeamLab Planets, Ueno Zoo.
• Bonus: Japan’s safety, cleanliness, and convenience make it an easy destination for family travel.

5. Vancouver, Canada – Best for Families All Year Round 

• Why? A scenic and adventure-filled city with both urban and outdoor attractions for all ages.
• Highlights: Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Science World, Grouse Mountain.
• Bonus: Easy access to nature, various family-friendly activities, and mild weather year-round.

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