5 Ways to Involve Kids in Vacation Planning

Image: Kiddos & I in Chinatown, Melbourne, Australia

Planning a vacation with the whole family can be tricky, but involving kids in the process can make it much more enjoyable. Not only will they feel included in the planning process, but also you’ll find that their input is often invaluable. For instance, they can help uncover exciting new activities or even act as mini travel agents and unearth great vacation deals.

By making their suggestions heard and taking their ideas seriously, you’re teaching them important lessons about decision-making, practicality, and financial responsibility, something that might just come in handy later down the line! It’s also a great chance to get creative and let your imagination run wild together, letting your children take charge of certain aspects of the trip such as choosing outfits or seeking out local attractions.

Ask for Their Input Before Making Decisions

Before making a decision on the destination, ask your kids to come up with two or three places they would like to visit. Have them do some research online and think of activities that sound fun for everyone. Make sure you consider their preferences before booking anything. You can consult them on other aspects of the trip such as what type of accommodation to stay in, transportation options, and meal choices. The more you involve them in the decision-making process, the more ownership they will take in the vacation.

Utilize Technology

Using apps and online tools can make a daunting task like planning a vacation less overwhelming for kids. There are many travel websites and apps specifically designed to help kids plan their trips, such as TripAdvisor Kids, which allows them to search for kid-friendly activities and attractions.

You can also use online resources to help kids learn more about the destination they’re visiting. Many cities have websites that feature interactive maps of tourist sites, as well as educational materials such as videos, photos, and articles. Encourage your child to explore these resources and create a list of must-see places.

Create an Itinerary

Put your kids in charge of creating the itinerary for the vacation! Have them use maps and other resources to plan out what sights they want to see, activities they’d like to do, and even restaurant suggestions. This will give children a more meaningful experience, as they’ll be able to mark off each item on the itinerary and feel a sense of accomplishment by the end of the trip.

However, be sure to give them some guidance and explain that it’s important to leave some free time for unplanned adventures.

Pack Together

You can make packing a fun activity by having the kids help you create a checklist of all the essentials they need for the trip. Allow them to choose their own clothes, toiletries, and entertainment items, while you can make sure they packed the essentials like sunscreen and bug spray. Have them help you with the packing process by folding items and filling their own suitcase. This will ensure they know exactly where everything is located and can access it during the trip.

Get Accessories to Make Them Comfortable

If your kids are young, they may get bored or uncomfortable during long car rides or flights. Invest in some fun accessories like headphones, books, and travel games to keep them entertained throughout the trip. If you are going on a long drive, backseat fans for babies and children are a great way to keep them cool and comfortable. The accessories should be tailored to your kids’ age and interests.

If you follow these tips, your kids will be excited to help plan the trip and look forward to it even more than you do! With a little effort, everyone in the family can have an unforgettable vacation.