15 travel tips for families traveling with older teenagers and twentysomethings

 

 Engage in Planning Together

 

Traveling as a family can be one of the most rewarding experiences, creating memories that last a lifetime. When it involves older teenagers and twentysomethings, the dynamics change significantly compared to traveling with younger children. One of the best ways to ensure that everyone has a great time is by involving all family members in the planning process. Here’s how you can make travel planning with older kids not only effective but also enjoyable.

 

 

1. Start with Open Discussions

Begin the planning process by holding an open family meeting. Discuss potential destinations by considering everyone’s interests and bucket lists. This is the stage to brainstorm without restrictions or judgments. You might find surprising overlaps in interests or come up with a completely new travel idea that excites everyone.

 

2. Research Together

Assign research tasks according to each person’s interests. For example, one might look up adventure activities like scuba diving or mountain biking, while another might explore cultural sites or music festivals. This approach not only divides the workload but also ensures that each family member’s preferences are considered in the itinerary.

3. Utilize Technology

Leverage technology to make planning easier. Apps and websites like Pinterest, TripAdvisor, and Google Trips can help organize ideas and build a coherent plan. Creating a shared online document or a Pinterest board where everyone can pin ideas, itineraries, and accommodations can keep the process collaborative and transparent.

4. Vote on Major Decisions

When it comes to making major decisions like picking a destination or choosing between two major activities, take a democratic approach. Voting on options can help resolve differences fairly and ensures that everyone feels they have a say in the travel plans.

5. Assign Responsibilities

Once the destination is decided, assign responsibilities based on individual strengths or interests. Let someone manage booking accommodations while another handles activity reservations or meal plans. This not only lightens the load for the planner but helps empower young adults by trusting them with important aspects of the travel arrangements.

6. Respect Their Input

When older teenagers and twentysomethings feel their opinions are valued, they’re more likely to engage positively throughout the trip. Respecting their input and incorporating their suggestions can lead to discovering unique experiences that might not have been your first choice but turn out to be trip highlights.

7. Keep Communication Lines Open

As the trip approaches, continue to keep communication open. Circumstances can change; interests may shift. Regular check-ins ensure that the plan remains relevant and exciting for everyone involved. Plus, it helps build anticipation for the adventure ahead.

8. Be Ready to Compromise

Finally, be ready to compromise. Balancing everyone’s wishes can be challenging, but flexibility is key to a harmonious family vacation. Sometimes you might have to prioritize one person’s preference over another, but if the overall plan is balanced, everyone can have a great time.

 

 

 

 

So, Are you ready to apply these 15 Travel Tips on your next family vacation?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

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