{"id":3263,"date":"2023-09-26T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-09-26T12:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/?p=3263"},"modified":"2024-01-11T22:17:45","modified_gmt":"2024-01-12T03:17:45","slug":"planning-a-family-vacation-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/09\/26\/planning-a-family-vacation-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"Planning a Family Vacation Checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Planning a family vacation can be fun, yet sometimes exhausting just thinking about it.  So, I&#8217;m here to help with this planning a family vacation checklist to help make your planning a little easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Traveling with kids is very different than traveling on your own.  It can take longer and you&#8217;re often working with a lot of different moods, which can be frustrating<\/strong>.  However, family vacations can equally be just as amazing and memorable by often finding joy in the smaller things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to family vacations, y<strong>ou should start with the expectation to be flexible.  Kids can make things unpredictable<\/strong>.  Therefore, it is important to not be over scheduled and have a lot of quieter, down time moments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-query is-layout-flow wp-block-query-is-layout-flow\"><ul class=\"wp-block-post-template is-layout-flow wp-block-post-template-is-layout-flow\"><li class=\"wp-block-post post-3263 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-kids category-travel tag-road-trip tag-travel-planning\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\"><figure class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/09\/26\/planning-a-family-vacation-checklist\/\" target=\"_self\"  ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Disney-Parade.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Planning a Family Vacation Checklist\" style=\"object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Disney-Parade.png 800w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Disney-Parade-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Disney-Parade-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Disney-Parade-500x375.png 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\"><h2 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/09\/26\/planning-a-family-vacation-checklist\/\" target=\"_self\" >Planning a Family Vacation Checklist<\/a><\/h2>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Planning a family vacation can be fun, yet sometimes exhausting just thinking about it. So, I&#8217;m here to help with this planning a&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Set a budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Traveling with kids instantly increases the total price<\/strong>.  For my family of four to fly anywhere, it easily costs us over $1000.  Additionally, we like to eat out when we travel so those food bills add up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, it is important to <strong>set a realistic budget early on<\/strong>.  There are services online, such as <a href=\"http:\/\/budgetyourtrip.com\" title=\"\">BudgetYourTrip.com<\/a>, that help estimate what your average costs might be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hot Tip: <\/strong>Look to see if there are any travel opportunities with discounts for kids.  Cruises often offer deals where kids travel for free, which can get you some major savings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Road-Trip.png\" alt=\"Planning a family vacation checklist\" class=\"wp-image-1772\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Road-Trip.png 800w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Road-Trip-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Road-Trip-768x576.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use a travel agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want help finding the best deals to save you money, then reach out to a travel agent.  It is important to involve them early on so they can help you research everything for planning your family vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Best part of using a travel agent is that they are 100% free to you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Explore More:<\/strong>  Need even more reasons to use a travel agent?  Head over to my post about when and when <em>not<\/em> to <a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/09\/20\/reasons-to-use-a-travel-agent\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">use a travel agent<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"602\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/PXL_20230223_012306195.jpeg\" alt=\"Planning a family vacation checklist: use a travel agent\" class=\"wp-image-1253\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/PXL_20230223_012306195.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/PXL_20230223_012306195-300x226.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/PXL_20230223_012306195-768x578.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Need help planning your vacation?<\/strong>  Reach out to me today for a free, no obligation quote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/general-travel-inquiry\/\" style=\"background-color:#fdcbcf\"><strong>CONTACT ME<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you start on your planning a family vacation checklist, one of the first things to do is to determine where you want to travel.  When traveling as a family either with small kids, teens, or even a multigenerational trip, it is important to <strong>consider a place with lots to see and a lot to do<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>All inclusive resorts or cruises are some great options <\/strong>that have various activities that many people can enjoy.  If you are looking for more of a cultural and historical experience, then Europe might be a good choice for your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center> <div class=\"eg-affiliate-banners\" data-program=\"us-expedia\" data-network=\"pz\" data-layout=\"leaderboard\" data-image=\"sunset\" data-message=\"ahoy-discover-perfect-cruise\" data-link=\"cruises\" data-camref=\"1100lA8Av\" data-pubref=\"\"><\/div>\n<script class=\"eg-affiliate-banners-script\" src=\"https:\/\/affiliates.expediagroup.com\/products\/banners\/assets\/eg-affiliate-banners.js\"><\/script> <\/center>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Consider the weather<\/strong> for where you want to travel to and figure out when the best season might be for traveling.  For example, when my husband and I traveled to Thailand we tried to avoid July to October, which is the designated rainy season.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Kid-at-Beach.jpeg\" alt=\"Planning a family vacation checklist: consider when to go\" class=\"wp-image-1416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Kid-at-Beach.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Kid-at-Beach-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Typically, when traveling with kids, you are often limited to traveling during school breaks and the holidays<\/strong>.  Unfortunately, these remain some of the most popular times to travel as everyone is also limited on their travel dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If possible, <strong>try to travel in the off season when kids are back in school<\/strong>.  Just make sure you inform the school and plan ahead for any homework that might need to be completed while you are away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who to bring<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Family vacations come in all shapes and sizes.  The bigger your family unit, the more fun you can have, but it can also come with a few more headaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>When you have more people, it means you will have more opinions.<\/strong>  So, when choosing a vacation spot, pick someplace that has a number of different activities that suit a number of different needs.  This allows everyone to do their own thing and then meet up later for quality family time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For my husband and me, <strong>one of the benefits to a family vacation with grandparents is that they can help watch the kids<\/strong>.  It lets us get out to spend some one-on-one time together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to do<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning a family vacation, <strong>always consider age-appropriate, kid-friendly activities.<\/strong>  Some of our family favorite activities are pool days, miniature golf, bike rides, theme parks, and zoos.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Giraffe-at-Zoo.jpg\" alt=\"Planning a family vacation checklist: what to do\" class=\"wp-image-1413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Giraffe-at-Zoo.jpg 800w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Giraffe-at-Zoo-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Giraffe-at-Zoo-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I like to consider what everyone likes to do and make sure we <strong>have at least one activity everyone will enjoy<\/strong>.  For example, my teenage daughter loves special snacks whereas my son has a lot of energy and likes to do something physically active.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hot Tip: <\/strong>Schedule down days to avoid overpacking your days with too many activities.  This helps keep everyone well rested and in good spirits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When figuring out where to stay for a family vacation, <strong>start by considering what sleeping arrangements might be ideal for your family.<\/strong>  If you have older children, they might benefit from having their own room; whereas, multiple younger kids might enjoy bunk beds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look into AirBnb or <a href=\"https:\/\/vrbo.com\/affiliate\/SmySNrp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">VRBO<\/a> rentals to find rental homes that might suit your needs.  I find that these vacation rentals can be comparable in price to hotels, but give you more flexibility and added perks like a kitchen or a washer\/dryer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center> <div class=\"eg-widget\" data-widget=\"search\" data-program=\"us-vrbo\" data-lobs=\"stays\" data-network=\"pz\" data-camref=\"1101lAgHE\"><\/div>\n<script class=\"eg-widgets-script\" src=\"https:\/\/affiliates.expediagroup.com\/products\/widgets\/assets\/eg-widgets.js\"><\/script> <\/center>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>If you are staying at a hotel, try requesting connecting rooms. <\/strong> This allows you to have more space as a family, but still be close by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mode of transportation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Travel costs are always one of the biggest things our family has to consider when planning a family vacation.  <strong>Flying can certainly be faster<\/strong>, but nowadays it can come with a hefty price especially for a family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Driving is often the cheaper option, but it can take a lot longer.  <strong>One of the biggest benefits to driving though is that you aren&#8217;t limited in the amount of stuff you can bring<\/strong>.  This works well if you are traveling with young children that need a car seat, stroller, toys, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Flying-with-Kids-4.png\" alt=\"Planning a family vacation checklist: mode of transportation\" class=\"wp-image-1759\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Flying-with-Kids-4.png 600w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Flying-with-Kids-4-225x300.png 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>My general rule is to consider flying if the drive is eight hours or longer. <\/strong> That seems to be my kids&#8217; limit of patience with being in the car for an extended period of time.  Past that amount of time, the benefits of flying are worth the price tag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Explore More: <\/strong>Make things easier on yourself with my posts on <a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/05\/23\/surviving-a-flight-with-kids\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">surviving flights with kids<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/01\/11\/road-trip-with-kids-must-haves\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">must-have road trip essentials for kids<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center> <div class=\"eg-widget\" data-widget=\"search\" data-program=\"us-expedia\" data-lobs=\"flights\" data-network=\"pz\" data-camref=\"1100lA8Av\"><\/div>\n<script class=\"eg-widgets-script\" src=\"https:\/\/affiliates.expediagroup.com\/products\/widgets\/assets\/eg-widgets.js\"><\/script> <\/center>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prepare for international travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are planning to travel abroad, then you must make sure your whole family has the necessary documents.  This might mean a <strong>travel visa, specific immunizations, and a passport<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/PXL_20230216_055610034.jpg\" alt=\"Planning a family vacation checklist: prepare for international travel\" class=\"wp-image-1231\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/PXL_20230216_055610034.jpg 602w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/PXL_20230216_055610034-226x300.jpg 226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In the United States, if you are taking a cruise that is leaving and returning to the same port then you are not required to have a passport.  A birth certificate is all you will need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, I still strongly recommend getting a passport in case something happens where you get stuck abroad.  It is better to be safe than sorry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/04\/14\/prepare-for-international-travel\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"338\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Prepare-for-International-Travel600px.png\" alt=\"How to prepare for international travel\" class=\"wp-image-2739\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Prepare-for-International-Travel600px.png 338w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Prepare-for-International-Travel600px-169x300.png 169w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 338px) 100vw, 338px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to eat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>My favorite part of any vacation is the food! <\/strong> Therefore, I love taking the time to research some of the best restaurants and local cuisine for wherever we are staying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-instagram wp-block-embed-instagram\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/Co9eYdOPzJ3\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" data-instgrm-version=\"14\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:500px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\"><div style=\"padding:16px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/Co9eYdOPzJ3\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;\" target=\"_blank\"> <div style=\" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;\"> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;\"><\/div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;\"><\/div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div style=\"padding: 19% 0;\"><\/div> <div style=\"display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;\"><svg width=\"50px\" height=\"50px\" viewBox=\"0 0 60 60\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"><g stroke=\"none\" stroke-width=\"1\" fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><g transform=\"translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)\" fill=\"#000000\"><g><path d=\"M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631\"><\/path><\/g><\/g><\/g><\/svg><\/div><div style=\"padding-top: 8px;\"> <div style=\" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;\">View this post on Instagram<\/div><\/div><div style=\"padding: 12.5% 0;\"><\/div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;\"><div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);\"><\/div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;\"><\/div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);\"><\/div><\/div><div style=\"margin-left: 8px;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;\"><\/div> <div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)\"><\/div><\/div><div style=\"margin-left: auto;\"> <div style=\" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);\"><\/div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);\"><\/div> <div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);\"><\/div><\/div><\/div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;\"><\/div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;\"><\/div><\/div><\/a><p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/Co9eYdOPzJ3\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;\" target=\"_blank\">A post shared by Let&#39;s Make a Plan (@makeaplanblog)<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/blockquote><script async src=\"\/\/platform.instagram.com\/en_US\/embeds.js\"><\/script>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>However, <strong>eating out can quickly add up in costs<\/strong>, especially when we are trying to feed four people.  Therefore, <strong>try to save some money by staying in and making your own meals.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are traveling abroad, then I recommend making a point to try the local food for the full cultural experience.  Even with picky eaters, there is no shame in eating from an international McDonald&#8217;s menu as you will get more local options.  I myself was guilty of this as a child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Packing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Packing for a family vacation can be a lot more difficult than just packing for yourself.  Therefore, <strong>make sure you start doing laundry, packing clothes, and gathering supplies sooner rather than later<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Best thing you can do for a family vacation is to <strong>involve kids in the packing<\/strong>.  My kids are slightly older so I can give them a list of how many days we are traveling and what the weather is going to be like allowing them to pack on their own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are traveling with younger kids, I recommend putting an outfit for each day in individual <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3t9AfER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">travel zipper pouches<\/a>.  This makes it easy for them to grab and go each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<html><head><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><\/head><body>\n<!-- HTML code for ASIN : B0C3CHY96M-->\n<div class=\"paapi5-pa-ad-unit pull-left\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-container\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-wrapper\"><a class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0C3CHY96M?tag=makeaplanblog-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" title=\"20 Pcs Travel Storage Bags, Clothes Packaging Bags, Reusable Plastic Ziplock Bags, Frosted Waterproof Resealable Clothing Zipper Bags Pouch for Travel Clothes Shoes Cosmetics Storage Bag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-source\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/419Jv7Koq-L._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"20 Pcs Travel Storage Bags, Clothes Packaging Bags, Reusable Plastic Ziplock Bags, Frosted Waterproof Resealable Clothing Zipper Bags Pouch for Travel Clothes Shoes Cosmetics Storage Bag\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-details\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-title\"><a class=\"paap5-pa-product-title-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0C3CHY96M?tag=makeaplanblog-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" title=\"20 Pcs Travel Storage Bags, Clothes Packaging Bags, Reusable Plastic Ziplock Bags, Frosted Waterproof Resealable Clothing Zipper Bags Pouch for Travel Clothes Shoes Cosmetics Storage Bag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">20 Pcs Travel Storage Bags, Clothes Packaging Bags, Reusable Plastic Ziplock Bags, Frosted Waterproof Resealable Clothing Zipper Bags Pouch for Travel Clothes Shoes Cosmetics Storage Bag<\/a><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-list-price\"><span class=\"paapi5-pa-product-list-price-value\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon\"><span class=\"icon-prime-all\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/body><\/html>\n<style>\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit {\n    border: 1px solid #eee;\n    margin:2px;\n    position: relative;\n    overflow: hidden;\n    padding: 22px 20px;\n    line-height: 1.1em;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit * {\n    box-sizing: content-box;\n    box-shadow: none;\n    font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\n    margin: 0;\n    outline: 0;\n    padding: 0;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.pull-left {\n    float: left;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.pull-right {\n    float: right;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit a {\n    box-shadow: none !important;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit a:hover {\n    color: #c45500;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-container {\n    width: 180px;\n    height: 210px;\n}\n\/* fixed width and height of product image to 150px *\/\n.paapi5-pa-product-image {\n    display: table;\n    width: 150px;\n    height: 150px;\n    margin: 0 auto;\n    text-align: center;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-image-wrapper {\n    display: table-cell;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-image-link {\n    position: relative;\n    display: inline-block;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-image-source {\n    max-width: 150px;\n    max-height: 150px;\n    vertical-align: bottom;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-percent-off {\n    display: block;\n    width: 32px;\n    height: 25px;\n    padding-top: 8px;\n    position: absolute;\n    top: -16px;\n    right: -16px;\n    color: #ffffff;\n    font-size: 12px;\n    text-align: center;\n    -webkit-border-radius: 50%;\n    -moz-border-radius: 50%;\n    -ms-border-radius: 50%;\n    border-radius: 50%;\n    background-color: #a50200;\n    background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(top, #cb0400, #a50200);\n    background-image: linear-gradient(to bottom, #cb0400, #a50200);\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.hide-percent-off-badge .paapi5-pa-percent-off {\n    display: none;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-details {\n    display: inline-block;\n    max-width: 100%;\n    margin-top: 11px;\n    text-align: center;\n    width: 100%;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit .paapi5-pa-product-title a {\n    display: block;\n    width: 100%;\n    overflow: hidden;\n    white-space: nowrap;\n    text-overflow: ellipsis;\n    font-size: 13px;\n    color: #0066c0;\n    text-decoration: none;\n    margin-bottom: 3px;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit .paapi5-pa-product-title a:hover {\n    text-decoration: underline;\n    color: #c45500;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.no-truncate .paapi5-pa-product-title a {\n    text-overflow: initial;\n    white-space: initial;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-offer-price {\n    font-size: 13px;\n    color: #111111;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-offer-price-value {\n    color: #AB1700;\n    font-weight: bold;\n    font-size: 1.1em;\n    margin-right: 3px;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-list-price {\n    font-size: 13px;\n    color: #565656;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-list-price-value {\n    text-decoration: line-through;\n    font-size: 0.99em;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon .icon-prime-all {\n    background: url(\"https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/G\/01\/AUIClients\/AmazonUIBaseCSS-sprite_2x_weblab_AUI_100106_T1-4e9f4ae74b1b576e5f55de370aae7aedaedf390d._V2_.png\") no-repeat;\n    display: inline-block;\n    margin-top: -1px;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n    background-position: -192px -911px;\n    background-size: 560px 938px;\n    width: 52px;\n    height: 15px;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-offer-price,\n.paapi5-pa-product-list-price,\n.paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon {\n    display: inline-block;\n    margin-right: 3px;\n}\n\n@media (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), (min-resolution: 192dpi) {\n    .paapi5-pa-ad-unit .paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon .icon-prime-all {\n        background: url(\"https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/G\/01\/AUIClients\/AmazonUIBaseCSS-sprite_2x_weblab_AUI_100106_T1-4e9f4ae74b1b576e5f55de370aae7aedaedf390d._V2_.png\") no-repeat;\n        display: inline-block;\n        margin-top: -1px;\n        vertical-align: middle;\n        background-position: -192px -911px;\n        background-size: 560px 938px;\n        width: 52px;\n        height: 15px;\n    }\n}\n\n\/* css for mobile devices when device width is less than 441px*\/\n@media  screen and (max-width: 440px) {\n    .paapi5-pa-ad-unit {\n        float: none;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n\n    .paapi5-pa-product-container {\n        margin: 0 auto;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n\n    .paapi5-pa-product-details {\n        text-align: center;\n        margin-top: 11px;\n    }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>My kids are also responsible for <strong>packing an entertainment backpack.<\/strong>  This is a bag filled with activities and toys that they can play with on their own and don&#8217;t require anyone else.  It helps make sure they have things that interest them for either long road trips or plane rides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<html><head><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><\/head><body>\n<!-- HTML code for ASIN : B08FFNL9X7-->\n<div class=\"paapi5-pa-ad-unit pull-left\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-container\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-wrapper\"><a class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B08FFNL9X7?tag=makeaplanblog-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" title=\"Simple Modern Disney Toddler Backpack for School Girls | Kindergarten Elementary Kids Backpack | Fletcher Collection | Kids - Medium (15&quot; tall) | Minnie Mouse Rainbow\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-source\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51CCEeUjIdL._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"Simple Modern Disney Toddler Backpack for School Girls | Kindergarten Elementary Kids Backpack | Fletcher Collection | Kids - Medium (15&quot; tall) | Minnie Mouse Rainbow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-details\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-title\"><a class=\"paap5-pa-product-title-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B08FFNL9X7?tag=makeaplanblog-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" title=\"Simple Modern Disney Toddler Backpack for School Girls | Kindergarten Elementary Kids Backpack | Fletcher Collection | Kids - Medium (15&quot; tall) | Minnie Mouse Rainbow\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Simple Modern Disney Toddler Backpack for School Girls | Kindergarten Elementary Kids Backpack | Fletcher Collection | Kids &#8211; Medium (15&#8243; tall) | Minnie Mouse Rainbow<\/a><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-list-price\"><span class=\"paapi5-pa-product-list-price-value\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon\"><span class=\"icon-prime-all\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/body><\/html>\n<style>\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit {\n    border: 1px solid #eee;\n    margin:2px;\n    position: relative;\n    overflow: hidden;\n    padding: 22px 20px;\n    line-height: 1.1em;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit * {\n    box-sizing: content-box;\n    box-shadow: none;\n    font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\n    margin: 0;\n    outline: 0;\n    padding: 0;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.pull-left {\n    float: left;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.pull-right {\n    float: right;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit a {\n    box-shadow: none !important;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit a:hover {\n    color: #c45500;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-container {\n    width: 180px;\n    height: 210px;\n}\n\/* fixed width and height of product image to 150px *\/\n.paapi5-pa-product-image {\n    display: table;\n    width: 150px;\n    height: 150px;\n    margin: 0 auto;\n    text-align: center;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-image-wrapper {\n    display: table-cell;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-image-link {\n    position: relative;\n    display: inline-block;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-image-source {\n    max-width: 150px;\n    max-height: 150px;\n    vertical-align: bottom;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-percent-off {\n    display: block;\n    width: 32px;\n    height: 25px;\n    padding-top: 8px;\n    position: absolute;\n    top: -16px;\n    right: -16px;\n    color: #ffffff;\n    font-size: 12px;\n    text-align: center;\n    -webkit-border-radius: 50%;\n    -moz-border-radius: 50%;\n    -ms-border-radius: 50%;\n    border-radius: 50%;\n    background-color: #a50200;\n    background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(top, #cb0400, #a50200);\n    background-image: linear-gradient(to bottom, #cb0400, #a50200);\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.hide-percent-off-badge .paapi5-pa-percent-off {\n    display: none;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-details {\n    display: inline-block;\n    max-width: 100%;\n    margin-top: 11px;\n    text-align: center;\n    width: 100%;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit .paapi5-pa-product-title a {\n    display: block;\n    width: 100%;\n    overflow: hidden;\n    white-space: nowrap;\n    text-overflow: ellipsis;\n    font-size: 13px;\n    color: #0066c0;\n    text-decoration: none;\n    margin-bottom: 3px;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit .paapi5-pa-product-title a:hover {\n    text-decoration: underline;\n    color: #c45500;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit.no-truncate .paapi5-pa-product-title a {\n    text-overflow: initial;\n    white-space: initial;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-offer-price {\n    font-size: 13px;\n    color: #111111;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-offer-price-value {\n    color: #AB1700;\n    font-weight: bold;\n    font-size: 1.1em;\n    margin-right: 3px;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-list-price {\n    font-size: 13px;\n    color: #565656;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-list-price-value {\n    text-decoration: line-through;\n    font-size: 0.99em;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon .icon-prime-all {\n    background: url(\"https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/G\/01\/AUIClients\/AmazonUIBaseCSS-sprite_2x_weblab_AUI_100106_T1-4e9f4ae74b1b576e5f55de370aae7aedaedf390d._V2_.png\") no-repeat;\n    display: inline-block;\n    margin-top: -1px;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n    background-position: -192px -911px;\n    background-size: 560px 938px;\n    width: 52px;\n    height: 15px;\n}\n\n.paapi5-pa-product-offer-price,\n.paapi5-pa-product-list-price,\n.paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon {\n    display: inline-block;\n    margin-right: 3px;\n}\n\n@media (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), (min-resolution: 192dpi) {\n    .paapi5-pa-ad-unit .paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon .icon-prime-all {\n        background: url(\"https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/G\/01\/AUIClients\/AmazonUIBaseCSS-sprite_2x_weblab_AUI_100106_T1-4e9f4ae74b1b576e5f55de370aae7aedaedf390d._V2_.png\") no-repeat;\n        display: inline-block;\n        margin-top: -1px;\n        vertical-align: middle;\n        background-position: -192px -911px;\n        background-size: 560px 938px;\n        width: 52px;\n        height: 15px;\n    }\n}\n\n\/* css for mobile devices when device width is less than 441px*\/\n@media  screen and (max-width: 440px) {\n    .paapi5-pa-ad-unit {\n        float: none;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n\n    .paapi5-pa-product-container {\n        margin: 0 auto;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n\n    .paapi5-pa-product-details {\n        text-align: center;\n        margin-top: 11px;\n    }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Explore More:<\/strong> Need help packing?  Head over to my <a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/01\/28\/ultimate-packing-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">ultimate packing list<\/a> to make sure you don&#8217;t forget a thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Souvenirs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When we are on vacations, we often struggle with the kids wanting to buy EVERYTHING.  I have found that it is easier to get them a <strong>gift card with a set amount<\/strong> and they are responsible for how they wish to spend their money.  When their gift card runs out, they are done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When packing, consider that you might want to bring souvenirs home and need space to do so.  It can be beneficial to <strong>carry a foldable duffle bag<\/strong> that can expand if you end up needing more room on your return trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<html><head><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><\/head><body>\n<!-- HTML code for ASIN : B071RC2ZML-->\n<div class=\"paapi5-pa-ad-unit pull-left\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-container\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-wrapper\"><a class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B071RC2ZML?tag=makeaplanblog-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" title=\"Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag with Shoes Compartment, Packable Lightweight Water Repellent Duffel Bag for Camping Gym Weekender Bag Deep blue\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"paapi5-pa-product-image-source\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41Y2Zs3JAfL._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag with Shoes Compartment, Packable Lightweight Water Repellent Duffel Bag for Camping Gym Weekender Bag Deep blue\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-details\"><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-title\"><a class=\"paap5-pa-product-title-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B071RC2ZML?tag=makeaplanblog-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" title=\"Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag with Shoes Compartment, Packable Lightweight Water Repellent Duffel Bag for Camping Gym Weekender Bag Deep blue\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gonex 100L Large Foldable Travel Duffle Bag with Shoes Compartment, Packable Lightweight Water Repellent Duffel Bag for Camping Gym Weekender Bag Deep blue<\/a><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-list-price\"><span class=\"paapi5-pa-product-list-price-value\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"paapi5-pa-product-prime-icon\"><span class=\"icon-prime-all\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/body><\/html>\n<style>\n\n.paapi5-pa-ad-unit {\n    border: 1px solid #eee;\n    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background-position: -192px -911px;\n        background-size: 560px 938px;\n        width: 52px;\n        height: 15px;\n    }\n}\n\n\/* css for mobile devices when device width is less than 441px*\/\n@media  screen and (max-width: 440px) {\n    .paapi5-pa-ad-unit {\n        float: none;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n\n    .paapi5-pa-product-container {\n        margin: 0 auto;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n\n    .paapi5-pa-product-details {\n        text-align: center;\n        margin-top: 11px;\n    }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Explore More: <\/strong>Looking to travel without kids?  Check out my post about on <a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/02\/03\/prepping-for-vacation-without-kids\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">prepping for vacation without kids<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to planning a family vacation, <strong>just remember to relax and stay flexible<\/strong>.  I find that the memories on family vacations are made more in the small moments, whether being stuck in the car, waiting in lines, or just hanging out in our pajamas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is the best family vacation you have ever taken? Let me know in the comments below!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/2023\/07\/11\/things-to-do-before-leaving-for-vacation\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"338\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Things-to-Do-Before-Vacation600px.png\" alt=\"14 Things You Must Do Before Leaving for Vacation\" class=\"wp-image-2844\" srcset=\"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Things-to-Do-Before-Vacation600px.png 338w, https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Things-to-Do-Before-Vacation600px-169x300.png 169w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 338px) 100vw, 338px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Planning a family vacation can be fun, yet sometimes exhausting just thinking about it. So, I&#8217;m here to help with this planning a&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2352,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[19,18],"tags":[50,38],"class_list":["post-3263","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-kids","category-travel","tag-road-trip","tag-travel-planning"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Disney-Parade.png","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3263","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3263"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3263\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4066,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3263\/revisions\/4066"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2352"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3263"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3263"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makeaplan.blog\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3263"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}