Making Family Travel Fun for Everyone

We love our kids. We really do. But let’s face it—traveling with little ones can come with a few bumps in the road. Here are some of the not-so-fun parts of family vacations:

• The Logistics: Packing for a toddler is like preparing for a lunar landing. Snacks? Check. Extra socks? Check. Three backup stuffies? You bet.
   
• No Privacy: There’s no such thing as sleeping in, relaxing, or even peeing alone when your kids are tagging along.
   
• Zero Couple Time: Romance? What's that? Between meltdowns and managing itineraries, your partner may feel more like your coworker than your co-parent.
   

Family vacations should include moments for couples to connect—not just survive the trip. Setting aside time to bond with your partner helps keep your relationship strong, reduces stress, and reminds you both that you're more than just parents—you’re a team.

1. Take Advantage of the Kids Club (Cruising Parents, This Is for You!)
   Most cruise lines offer kids clubs for children under 10. These aren’t babysitting pens—they're action-packed zones with crafts, games, and even mini discos. Your child has a blast, and you get to sip something tropical while watching the ocean. Win-win!

              **Some resorts, like the All-Inclusive Beaches Resorts, cater to families and have 

                 on-site caregivers.
 

1. Enroll Kids in Summer Camps at Theme Parks
   Did you know many theme parks offer full or half-day summer camps? Your kids learn, play, and make friends while you and your partner sneak off to the spa or a fancy lunch. That’s a parenting double play.
    
2. Look for STEM-Themed Camps at Museums
   Museums often run fun, educational camps focused on science, technology, and exploration. Your curious kid gets to build robots or dig up fossils while you explore the city—or each other!
    
3. Rent an Airbnb and Book a Nanny
   If you’re staying in one spot for a few days, renting an Airbnb gives your family space to spread out. Consider hiring a vetted nanny for a day or evening out. Use apps like Care.com to find pre-screened caregivers with background checks. Safety first, romance second!
    
4. Trade Babysitting with Another Traveling Family
   Know another family traveling with kids? Team up! One night you watch their crew, the next they watch yours. It's free, it's trusted, and it gets you one step closer to that rooftop dinner date.
    

Teenagers are in that "I want independence, but please feed me and pay for everything" stage. Here’s how to make traveling with them smoother:

1. Give Them Some Freedom
   Let them explore the resort, shop at the market, or choose their own activity for a few hours (with clear boundaries and check-in times). A little space goes a long way.
    
2. Include Their Interests in the Itinerary
   Ask what they want to do before the trip—even if it’s just finding the coolest coffee shop or filming a TikTok. Feeling heard = fewer eye rolls.
    
3. Don’t Force All the Togetherness
   They might not want to do every group activity—and that’s okay. Give them a few solo choices during the day, then come back together at night.
    
4. Keep Snacks and Wi-Fi Flowing
   Just like toddlers, teens get cranky when they’re hungry or offline for too long. Keep snacks handy and Wi-Fi passwords close.
    

Building couple time into your trip isn't selfish—it's smart. It helps your relationship thrive, gives you both a mental break, and makes the whole family vacation more fun. Because let’s be honest, if you're only there to carry snacks and referee pool fights, it’s not really a vacation for you.

When you prioritize connection with your partner, you're less likely to feel burnt out or resentful that the trip was all about the kids. A happy couple equals a happy family—and that’s what great vacations are all about.