More Family Trip Tips
Our family motto is, “Have car, will travel!” We’ve driven thousands of miles (and kilometers!) around the United States and Canada. We’ve picked up a few helpful tricks along the way. So whether you’re traveling to a Fort Meyers Beach Condo or camping your way up to the Yukon, here are a few things to keep in mind.
An ounce of prevention…
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and the same is true for advance preparation on trips. Take the time to carefully plan where you’re going, what you’re doing, where you’ll be staying, etc. before you hit the road. Plans can change along the way, but having a general idea of how you’d like things to go will help save some stress and headaches later.
Communication is key
Communication between spouses is probably most important. Be clear with one another what your expectations of the trip are, and keep talking along the way. Also, we have found it helpful for the parents to talk with the children before, during and after the trip, explaining the guidelines and expectations for the trip, and any contingency plans that might arise. Of course, the children can also be encouraged to practice appropriate communication with each other (i.e., trying to avoid arguments in the back seat, etc.).
Beyond the limits
Many families enjoy the possibility of grand adventures together. It can be fun to reach beyond your comfort zone and try some new things, like traveling to new places or just doing something you’ve never done before, to break out of your limits and explore as a family. Be aware of the limits of each family member, though, and don’t push anyone too far, too fast – otherwise you can ruin the trip for them, and possibly for everyone.
The Best and the Worst
Realize that while traveling, and being in each others’ space for long periods of time, that the best and the worst can both come out in your family members. You will likely make some fantastic memories, but you will also possibly make some of your worst. Tired, motion-sick, bored children are rarely pleasant, and neither are stressed, silence-deprived, hungry parents. Give each other some extra grace and extra space when needed.
Family trips can be made easier, and can be great when you keep these tips, and others, in mind. No matter where you’re going, it takes a little advance prep and some good communication along the way, but getting outside your limits, and enduring both the best and the worst of it all, will undoubtedly make some great memories!