Planning a family vacation with older teenagers or twentysomethings? You’re not alone. Many families are planning multigenerational vacations with older kids. And let me tell you, it’s a whole different ballgame than traveling with little kids! These young adults crave independence, adventure, and maybe even a little Wi-Fi. The good news? Well, with the right approach, you can create a vacation that’s equal parts relaxing, engaging, and memorable for everyone. Today, I am sharing a few of my favorite travel tips for families with young adults. My goal is to help your family connect and actually enjoy each other’s company while on vacations you all love.

Travel Tips for Families with Young Adults: How to Plan a Vacation Everyone Will Enjoy

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.

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.

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.

Vote on Major Decisions – Best Travel Tip for Families with Young Adults

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.

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.

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.

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.

Be Ready to Compromise – A Must-Use Travel Tip for Families with Young Adults

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 travel tips for families with young adults on your next vacation?

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

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