I love a good quote (and bet you do, too). I get excited whenever I find a sentiment that’s perfectly expressed. There’s something universal about a good quote.

That’s what I sought when hunting for these staycation quotes. They’ll make you look forward to spending more time at home. The quotes will change your perspective on what is possible with a staycation. They’ll give you staycation ideas, too!

But first: If you’re not familiar with this term, here’s how I define staycation: A staycation is time you spend at home or near home with the intention of creating a restful, exceptional or memorable experience.

In other words, staycations get you the wonderful feelings of a vacation—without traveling far.

Take as many staycations as you want!

Now that we’re all on board with how awesome staycations can be, it’s time to get excited! You can plan staycations anytime. Take a few days off work or take advantage of a plan-free weekend. Without the expense of flights, gas or hotels, you can take as many staycations as you want every year.

Here I’m sharing my favorite staycation quotes. Below, you’ll find inspiration, ideas and even permission to let everything go and simply do nothing. Feel free to use these staycation quotes for Instagram captions, too!

And while you’re looking for inspiration, check out my latest book for staycation ideas!

Quotes for Staycation Inspiration

“Sometimes, home has a heartbeat.” -Beau Taplin

“Laughter is an instant vacation.” -Milton Berle

“Some people look for a beautiful place. Others make a place beautiful.” -Hazrat Inayat Khan

“No matter where you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.” -Anthony J. D’Angelo

“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” ― Mason Cooley

“We do not need magic to transform our world. We carry all the power we need inside ourselves already.” -J.K. Rowling

Staycation Quotes about the Comfort of Home

“Home is where the heart is.” -Pliny the Elder

“He is happiest, be he king or peasant, who finds peace in his home.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.” –Jane Austen

“There is no place more delightful than one’s own fireplace.” –Cicero

“Home is a shelter from storms.” -William J. Bennett

Staycation Quotes about Stillness

“Simply wait, be quiet, still. The world will freely offer itself to you.” -Franz Kafka

“Being still does not mean don’t move. It means move in peace.” -Eyen A. Gardner

“How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then rest afterward.” -Spanish proverb

“Rest until you feel like playing, then play until you feel like resting, period. Never do anything else.” -Martha Beck

“The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear.” — Rumi

“A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it.” -Robert Orben

Returning Home Quotes

“Our homes should inspire us to go out into the world to do great things and then welcome us back for refreshment.” –Melissa Michaels

“The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” –Wendy Wunder

“Every traveller has a home of his own, and he learns to appreciate it the more from his wandering.” –Charles Dickens

“A man travels all over the world in search of what he needs, and returns home to find it.” -George Moore

Couples Staycation Quotes

“So I’m going home/Back to the place where I belong/And where your love has always been enough for me.” -Daughtry

“We were together. All else has been long forgotten by me.” -Walt Whitman

“Home is wherever I’m with you.” -Edward Sharpe

“When we have each other, we have everything.”

“At night I dream that you and I are two plants that grew together, roots entwined, and that you know the earth and the rain like my mouth, since we are made of earth and rain.” -Pablo Neruda

“Together is a beautiful place to be.” -Nubya Garcia

Are you feeling inspired by these staycation quotes? Do you have some to share? Please let me know in the comments below.

PS – Don’t forget to buy your e-book or paperback of 50 Fun Staycation Adventures for Kids. If you’re looking for fun family activities, I’m betting you’ll agree with the many readers who made the book a #1 Amazon Bestseller: These staycation ideas are fun, inexpensive and unforgettable.

The post Staycation Quotes: 27 Inspiring Quotations for Your Next At-Home Vacation appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Picking a destination for a multigenerational vacation can be tricky. You need activities that are fun for everyone. You need lodging that suits littles as well as Boomers. And you need a destination everyone is excited about.

Instead of wracking your brain for the best places to travel with grandparents, check out these phenomenal destinations. This post narrows down vacation spots to the ones that are just perfect for your extended family trip in the US.

Is your crew interested in the beach? Hiking? Fishing? National parks? Cities? Quaint towns? These 21 US travel recommendations have something for everyone.

Remember, if you’re feeling a bit intimidated by planning a trip with grandparents, check out my post with the must-know tips to plan a multigenerational vacation.

One final thing before you find the perfect travel destination for grandparents and grandchildren. If your trip involves driving, make sure you get this first: My book Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids shares 33 fun, customizable games and free printables that will keep everyone from toddlers to octogenarians entertained for hours. Make the time you spend driving just as memorable as the time in your destination by playing games!

Click the image below to get your copy in e-book or paperback!

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite tops many lists of the best places to travel in California, and for good reason. It features almost 1,200 square miles of staggering cliff faces and rock formations, towering waterfalls, and spectacular sequoia trees that have thrived over the past three millennia. And best of all, many of those stunning sights can be reached by easy and accessible roads and trails.

Traveling as a multigenerational group is not just about sight-seeing though, it’s about making family memories. After you’ve walked through some of Yosemite’s best family-friendly trails like Lower Yosemite Falls, Cook’s Meadow, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, consider exploring the park from a different perspective.

Take in the views of El Capitan from Cathedral Beach while the kids splash in the Merced River, or get a raft and float through Yosemite Valley together. Experience Glacier Point at sunset or picnic away from the Valley crowds at Tenaya Lake. If it’s snowing, strap on some snowshoes and enjoy having El Cap Meadow all to yourselves. And whatever the season, make time for a family photo at Tunnel View!

When planning a Yosemite trip for a larger group, the number of options and promise of crowds can feel a bit overwhelming. Consider booking a guided tour with Yosemite Family Adventures, a local outfitter that specializes in helping multigenerational families see Yosemite beyond the shuttle loop. Leave the driving and planning to them, and simply enjoy the moments together.

While there are many wonderful resorts outside the park boundaries, a vacation rental inside the park can be a memorable experience in and of itself. Rent a large house for the whole family in Yosemite West or Foresta and never worry about waiting in line at the park’s entrance gates.

For even more details and recommendations, read my guide to Yosemite for families!

Kristy Esparza is the founder of JJ & The Bug, a site all about active family travel and encouraging families to spend outdoor time together.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

Plymouth, Massachusetts offers a mix of relaxing beach time, water activities, and a solid dose of history! That makes it one of the best places to travel with grandparents. Plymouth is a small town on Cape Cod Bay, which makes it is easy to drive in and out of, because you are not on the actual arm of the Cape.

In Plymouth Harbor you’ll find lots of restaurants, ice cream places, and of course Plymouth Rock itself! As you walk uphill into village historic district you’ll find more places to eat, shop, and grab a coffee. There’s plenty of parking near the harbor.

Plymouth is a lot of fun for multi-generational family trips. Younger travelers can enjoy kayaking or deep-sea fishing, while older travelers relax on the beach. The harbor area is easy to enjoy with limited walking, and is flat and easy to navigate. More active family members can explore farther, including tastings at the Dirty Water Distillery or Second Wind Brewery, both in easy walking distance of the harbor.

Plymouth Rock is the iconic rock where the pilgrim stepped ashore from their ship the Mayflower in 1620. There’s a portico built around the rock, but no charge to view it. Climb the stairs across from the stone to see the statue of Massasoit, leader of the Wampanoag at the top of the hill. The Wampanoag people were native to the area.

Other historical attractions in Plymouth include Plimoth Plantation, which recreates the original Plimoth settlement (spelling changed later), as well as a Wampanoag settlement. You can climb aboard a recreation of the Mayflower at Pilgrim Memorial State Park.

The ocean around Plymouth is actually Cape Cod Bay, so it’s protected, calm and family friendly. You’ll find plenty of seashells at low tide, and even the smallest kids will enjoy the water. Beachfront rentals in surrounding towns including Monomet allow access to quiet private beaches and all the amenities of Plymouth. The town itself has terrific lodging, too.

The best time to visit Plymouth is in the summer. The weather will be dry and warm, perfect for spending days on the beach, eating lobster dinners outside and taking a kayak out on the water. Easy day trips from Plymouth include taking the ferry Provincetown from the harbor, or driving to Woods Hole to take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.

Driving to Plymouth? Don’t miss A Road Trip with Kids and Toddlers: 20+ Tips to Survive and Thrive!

Cynthia shares tip for traveling the world with kids at Sharing the Wander.

Oahu, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Oahu is an incredible choice for multigenerational travel. It offers a wide range of activities that will appeal to all ages and interests. There’s plenty to keep the whole family busy on a trip with grandparents for several weeks if you have the time!

The other Hawaiian islands are almost exclusively focused on active outdoor adventures: beach time, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, surfing and more. Oahu offers all of those activities, of course. If your entire multigenerational travel group is full of adrenaline junkies they won’t be disappointed. 

But for grandparents who want lower-key activities mixed in with the outdoors, Oahu truly delivers. Our own two grandmas joined us on Oahu for two weeks and loved the variety added by experiences like visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center, touring Iolani Palace, enjoying top-notch shopping in Honolulu, paying their respects at Pearl Harbor, sampling coffee at a local farm and learning more about the islands’ natural and cultural history at the Bishop Museum. There are so many wonderful historical and cultural institutions that we couldn’t even visit them all!

In considering where to stay on Oahu for a multigenerational trip, I recommend looking for a large vacation rental on the lush Windward Coast or on the North Shore. Those areas are far more tranquil than busy Honolulu or resort-heavy Ko Olina; you’ll feel like you’re in Hawaii. You’ll need to rent a car, but driving isn’t any worse than most major US cities and the flexibility to explore the entire island at your own pace is priceless.

Melissa lives in Ohio with her husband and two kids and shares their adventures on thefamilyvoyage.com.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is a coastal retreat that’s easy to love as a multigenerational vacation destination, thanks to its pristine sandy beaches, vibrant murals, a three-mile long boardwalk. This family-friendly destination also has lots to do outside, from hiking and biking at state parks to paddling coastal waterways in search of bottlenose dolphins and river otters.

Plan to stroll the boardwalk or go horseback riding on the beach. Either way, a selfie with 34-foot-tall King Neptune at the 31st Street beach entrance is an absolute must. The horse corral is located at 31st street, as is a small playground. At one end of the boardwalk (on 2nd Street), the 15,000-square-foot Grommet Island Beach Park is a must-go spot to let the grandchildren burn off energy on climbing structures and slides.

Walk the ViBe Creative District to see dozens of colorful murals, including the “Greetings from Virginia Beach” mural at The Beach Bully on 19th Street. Make a stop at Lolly’s Creamery for an ice cream cone or cup (even a quart). The scoop shop tempts with flavors on rotation like Cotton Candy and Cookie Monster. The creamery is also less than three blocks from the beach.

Off the beach, enjoy an easy-going hike at First Landing State Park, the most-visited state park in Virginia. The Bald Cypress Trail guides visitors across a freshwater cypress swamp that wows with curious bald cypress trees with knobby “knees.” Make one last stop at Mount Trashmore, a popular city park that was once an abandoned landfill. It’s also a top spot to fly a kite as a family.

Erin Gifford writes about family travel and outdoor recreation at Go Hike Virginia and recently wrote her first guidebook on hiking with kids in Virginia. 

Zion National Park and Southern Utah

Southern Utah is a fantastic spot for a multi-generational trip. With gorgeous sites like Zion National Park and even more state parks, there is plenty to do for the whole family. Plus, there are ample accommodation options that are ideal for a larger group—finding an affordable 4+ bedroom house is a breeze! When planning your trip, consider a home base in St. George or Hurricane. Both will have hotels and vacation rental properties at all price points as well as lots of dining and retail options. 

If you’re planning to visit in the warmer months, consider also adding Sand Hollow State Park to your list. With gorgeous red-sand beaches surrounded by more red rocks, it feels out of this world! Pack a picnic lunch, find a beach spot and enjoy a family day. Boats and kayaks can also be rented if you need more entertainment. 

Be sure you give Zion National Park at least one day on your itinerary. With a multi-generational group, park in the Visitor Lot (South entrance), take the park shuttle to Temple of Sinawava and do the easy Riverside Walk. This trail is suitable for both strollers and wheelchairs and will lead you to the famous site, The Narrows. Be sure to stop at the Zion Lodge on your way back to the parking lot for a souvenir stop and for delicious soft serve ice cream cones.

Want more details? Read about what to do in Southern Utah.

Kristina Bullock shares her tips for family travel on Million Miler Mom.

La Jolla, California

La Jolla, California is an easygoing beach town located a few minutes outside of San Diego. The laid back vibe lends itself perfectly to a trip with young children and grandparents.  

The cute downtown area has tons of cute shops and restaurants that appeal to all ages.

The beach area, La Jolla Cove, boasts seven miles of coastline with crashing waves, jagged rocks, and white sand beaches. The coves are fun to explore and relatively easy to access. There are some amazing hikes to enjoy as well.   

Active family members can participate in beach activities that makes La Jolla great for a multigenerational trip, including kayaking, surfing, and snorkeling. Those who do not wish to participate can watch from the beach.

Above all else, La Jolla is special because of the wild seals and sea lions who have claimed the area as their own.  You cannot swim with or touch them, but you can stand within feet of them on the bluffs. The animals have spent enough time with cell phone cameras in their faces to know that humans are not much of a threat. Watching them provides hours of entertainment for all ages.  

In addition to the sea lions and seals, you can often see whales during their migration. 

Adriane, a blogger with Put on Your Party Pants (and Keep Them on Until 8pm), writes about planning and saving on family travel.

Sanibel Island, Florida

With over 270 days of sunshine a year, Sanibel Island, Florida is an ideal destination for families.

With only one road on and off the island, Sanibel’s secluded location limits the number of overnight travelers who want a simpler holiday. That said however, there are plenty of things to do for a perfect multi-generational vacation every member of the family will love.

Sanibel is renowned for its shelling. Seashells wash ashore by the thousands, each more perfect than the last — it’s almost enough to keep everyone glued to the beach from sunrise to sunset! If you want to learn more about the sea, kids and adults will love spending a fun and educational day at the Sanibel Sea School.

A dedicated bike path runs the length of Sanibel island, so a bicycle or golf cart ride is always in order. For hiking and paddling adventures, rent a canoe or kayak and explore the JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Preserve, where you’ll see manatees, herons, bald eagles, and even an alligator or two.

Sanibel and Captiva are also surrounded by smaller barrier islands of Florida like North Captiva and Cabbage Key which are accessible only by boat. Taking a boat tour for lunch and a day of exploring is something the whole family will enjoy.

There’s no shortage of family-friendly restaurants on Sanibel as well, and dessert at the Bubble Room on nearby Captiva will make memories that last a lifetime.

If your family is longing for a vacation celebrating the simpler things, Sanibel Island Florida should be your next destination.

Lori Sorrentino lives in SWFL and is the founder and editor of the Naples Florida Travel Guide, the traveler’s resource for Naples, Fort Myers, Sanibel, and all of southwest Florida.

The Catskills, New York

The Catskills have always been a beloved back to nature getaway. It’s only 90 minutes from New York City but you might as well be a world away. There’s magic here in all seasons for all ages! We’ve been vacationing in the Catskills for 15 years, first as a couple and now as a family who often brings grandparents along. They tell us all stories how they used to come here in their 20s and 30s too!

It’s no secret that the Catskills feature fantastic skiing at Hunter Mountain and Windham Resort. Stay on property for the ultimate ski-in/ski-out convenience and amenities. We stay at Kaatskill Mountain Club, the home of our timeshare. After a day of multi generation skiing, we love to relax in their hot tubs, heated pool, and large condo-like rooms perfectly sized for a large group. 

What does surprise some people is that the Catskills also a perfect getaway for extended family outside of ski season too! A visit to the infamous Kaaterskill Falls is a must-do. Thanks to a new paved trail, people of all abilities can see the tallest waterfall in New York State Park at the Laurel House Rd lot and follow the quarter-mile walk to the viewing platform. Multiple hiking trails intersect there with options for both grandparents and young kids. 

About 5 minutes from Laurel House Road, is the entrance to “America’s First Wilderness,” North South Lake State Park. This 1,000 acre preserve is one of those rare attractions that has something for all ages and all interest groups. This state park has two lakes, a beach, history, fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding and easy hiking to some of the best views and spots this region has to offer— all for $8 a car entry fee! 

After fun filled days, check out Tannersville, NY Main Street. This charming town is home to fantastic restaurants, shops, art galleries, performance spaces and theaters. 

Monica writes about timeshare vacation tips & tricks, NYC Metro Area trips & activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

Seattle and the Olympic National Park, Washington

If you’re looking for a place to travel with grandparents, check out Seattle, WA and take a family road trip to the Olympic Peninsula!

Start your multigenerational trip in Seattle. The city is home to great shopping, food, fun, and unique places to visit. There is so much to see and do that will satisfy everyone on a grandparents-friendly trip. Do not miss the iconic Pike Place Market and its famous Gum Wall.

Seattle’s Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space museums in the world. If you are visiting during sports seasons, join in the excitement at a Seahawks or Mariners game. Also, do not forget to find the Fremont Troll underneath the north end of the Aurora Bridge. It is not a visit to Seattle without enjoying a panoramic view of Seattle and Puget Sound from the observation deck at the top of the Space Needle.

Three hours from Seattle is the breathtaking Olympic National Park. Book a stay at Kalaloch Lodge for a couple of days while you explore the area. You will fall in love with Ruby Beach, one of the most rugged and beautiful beaches in Washington.

The sea stacks, the weathered wood, and the wildlife will take your breath away. The beach is a beautiful spot to walk and enjoy the charm of PNW nature. Tide pooling at Ruby Beach is a great way for everyone to spend time together. It is always exciting for adults and kids alike to find interesting and colorful creatures.

Debbie Fettback is the voice behind WorldAdventurists.com, a blog dedicated to family travel adventures.

Miami, Florida

One of the best places for multigenerational travel is Miami, and it isn’t just because of its fame as a must-visit holiday destination!

While the weather in Miami makes it quite convenient for most of the year, its beaches, restaurants and the wide variety of options that serve almost every type of traveler make this destination great for families.

If you’re looking for laid-back travel with grandparents, there are numerous resorts where you can have a super relaxing holiday. However, if you’re looking to be a little more active and the family enjoys activities, there’s Wynwood Walls full of colouful murals that are perfect for spending about half a day and even grabbing a bite here.

The Art Deco District with about 800 buildings built in the Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modern (MiMo) architectural style is another option to explore for art and architecture lovers.

Miami Seaquarium and Zoo are ideal if your family loves wildlife. If your family is into history, there’s the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Your kids will have fun exploring Miami’s Children’s Museum, too.

If your kids and the grandparents prefer outdoor activities, there are speedboat rides, you can ride a bike through South Beach or even opt for kiteboarding and snorkelling.

Foodies can rest assured that there are many cuisine options available, like Cuban feasts in Little Havana and cuisines like Peruvian, Mediterranean and Caribbean being just a few on offer in all of Miami! So when you plan this vacation with grandparents, don’t forget to bring your appetites!

Lavinia is a travel writer, speaker and web designer. She loves photography and writes mostly about food and travel.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the best places to travel with grandparents because it is one of the most versatile cities in the world. The big attraction, of course, is the 24/7 gambling scene. Casinos in Vegas are truly next level, with plush seats and ergonomic table and slot machine heights that are easy on the joints for long use. However, if gambling isn’t your family’s scene (and know that children aren’t allowed to stop and watch grown-ups gamble), Vegas also has a more subtle side. 

The Neon Museum and the Mob Museum are two visitor favorites, and they both give an informative but engaging tour of how Vegas earned its notorious nickname Sin City.

Each casino-hotel also features a unique and themed experience, like the shops lining Italian canals in The Venetian hotel, for endless window browsing. For art enthusiasts, there are free galleries around town, as well as famous pop art installations like the Seven Magic Mountains. Or, you can get your art from a more stationary position, with the dozens of magic shows, circus performances, and concerts by some of the biggest musical artists in the industry.

You can even get out into nature at the nearby Red Rock State Park, which has a few light and even-paved trails that are wheelchair accessible. There’s something for everyone at every age. The great thing about Vegas is that you can easily split up within the group, then come back together to eat at all of the amazing restaurants Vegas has to offer.

Kay writes about travel destinations and tips at The Awkward Traveller

The Everglades, Florida

If you’re looking for a great spot to visit with grandparents and the entire family, you need to go to the Everglades National Park. Located in southern Florida, this is a beautiful spot to get back in touch with nature and experience the beauty of this incredible area.

The Everglades are large so there is plenty to see and do. Hiking and camping are popular activities here. You can find easier trails to try if as you travel with grandparents. Try the Bobcat Boardwalk for a quick and easy walk that even young children can complete.

Another fantastic and more relaxing way to experience this beautiful park is by boat. You can either go on an airboat tour, which will let you see a lot. (Airboats can also be quite loud, so take that into consideration before you book a tour of the Everglades.) You’ll see the mangrove forests and can spot wildlife like alligators, birds and different fish.

For a more serene experience, consider taking a kayaking tour instead. There are different options for this, some of which are beginner-friendly and don’t require too much physical fitness. If you’re looking for more relaxed ways to experience the everglades with grandparents you can always go for a scenic drive and stop at lookout points for some bird watching or a quick photo.

Victoria is a travel blogger for Guide your Travel focusing on realistic and budget travel advice.

San Diego, California

San Diego, California offers fun activities for everyone from kids to grandparents, and there’s plenty that they both can enjoy! With an average temperature of 72 degrees, the weather in San Diego makes it a year-round destination with most of the best attractions at least partially outdoors.

The 1,200 acre Balboa Park, known as America’s largest urban cultural park, truly has something for everyone. Their “Kid’s Itinerary” for smaller children will help steer you toward activities for the little ones. Home to numerous museums, beautiful gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park can take a few hours or a few days to explore, depending on the family.

Nearby, in Old Town San Diego you’ll find historic buildings, Indian and Mexican crafts, fun souvenir shops, and authentic Mexican restaurants. Also, just a stone’s throw away, is Sea World in case you didn’t get your fill of animals at the Zoo.

However, what’s even better is visiting La Jolla (remember that recommendation above??). Kids of all ages relish watching the seals and sea lions play in the Pacific Ocean, and stretching out on the rocky shore in nature’s setting by La Jolla Cove.

Of course, La Jolla is home to some fabulous family-friendly sandy beaches too, and so is the bordering neighborhood of Pacific Beach which has the added enticement for kids of a beachfront amusement park. Or for the more sporty family, head to Mission Bay where you can do anything from jet skiing to parasailing. The not so sporty can just relax and soak in the San Diego sun (with sunscreen, of course!).

Denise shares culinary adventures, whether they are at home or around the world, on her blog ChefDenise.com.

The Golden Isles, Georgia

The Golden Isles are a series of islands located off the coast of Georgia. The Isles consist of Saint Simons Island, Little Saint Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Sea Island. This area is renowned for its golf courses, beaches, shopping, and sea turtle center. All the activities make the Golden Isles ideal for travel with grandparents!

The easiest way to access the Golden Isles is by car. There are two major airports nearby: Jacksonville, FL and Savannah, GA. From Jacksonville, the islands are about two hours away. From Savannah, the islands are about 1.5 hours south.

The Golden Isles are some of the best islands to vacation to with grandparents in the US! They have a very laid back vibe, compared to other beach towns in the US, and are very easy to navigate. The activities offered here are also perfect for multi-generational families, including its plethora of golf courses, clean beaches, trolleys, and shops.

Be sure to check out Driftwood Beach and the turtle hospital on Jekyll. Located on Jekyll’s north end, Driftwood Beach has been deemed one of the most romantic beaches in the US and is a hidden gem! Don’t be surprised if you catch a wedding here while visiting!

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is the turtle hospital and rehabilitation center located on the island. Not only is this place super educational, it’s the only one like it in Georgia. This hospital allows the public to not only learn about different sea turtles, but to actually visit them in their rehabilitation tanks! This is the perfect place to visit with grandparents! 

Nicole is the founder and blogger of The Abroad Blog, an all-encompassing travel & lifestyle blog focused on study abroad, New England travel, and weekend itineraries for 20-somethings looking to travel on a budget.

Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota, FL is paradise, right in the United States. This fact alone makes it one of the best places to travel with grandparents because honestly, who doesn’t like paradise? In addition to its soft white sand, beautifully hued beach, and palm tree-lined streets, Sarasota’s many things to do offer something for everyone in the family and the perfect multi-generational trip. 

Let’s start with the beaches. Sarasota’s beaches have their own individual personality and attractions. Siesta Keys is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With over eight miles of beachfront, there is plenty of space for the sunbathers, the water sport enthusiast, and of course for the kiddos to build their sand castles and throw a frisbee.

In fact, many of Sarasota’s beaches offer a first-hand marine life experience. From collecting shark teeth in Venice to seeing turtles and other marine life at Lido Key and Longboat Key beaches, there is literally a beach experience for everyone. 

The marine life adventures don’t stop at the beaches. Sarasota is known for dolphin and manatee excursions. Everyone in the family can enjoy experiencing these beautiful animals leaping in and out of the water, making it the perfect multi-generational trip excursion. Similarly, the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium offers the once in a lifetime opportunity to have hands-on experience with marine life, including touching stingrays, sharks, and more. 

One’s love for animals doesn’t have to end with marine life in Sarasota. Jungle Gardens features free roaming flamingos where the youth, and young at heart, have the rare privilege to feed and walk amongst a flamboyance of flamingos. Additionally, there is a  petting zoo and areas to feed turtles and alligators. 

The beautiful thing about Sarasota is that even the more adult-inclined activities, like the botanical gardens and museums, feature wonderfully curated children’s areas, allowing everyone—from children to grandparents—to enjoy their vacation in Sarasota.

Marquita is the traveling twin mama, traveling the world with her twin three-year-old boys. She provides tips and inspiration to help women and families travel smarter. 

Yosemite National Park (yes, again! it’s that great)

Yosemite National Park is perfect backdrop for making lifelong family memories. From participating in ranger-led nature walks to taking a raft out on the Merced River, the possibility for unique experiences is endless. This national park is home to many family traditions, and is the subject of many stories that get passed down from generation to generation.  

Simply witnessing the majestic beauty of Yosemite together is something that brings families closer together. Driving into the valley and being surrounded by massive mountains and waterfalls is extremely awe inspiring. Yosemite is a national park that caters to families, offering kid-friendly nature activities and family friendly hikes, making it one of the best places for family travel, especially with grandparents, in the US. 

Whether you’re planning a short two-day itinerary in Yosemite or a full week, a couple major must-sees for families include Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point. Yosemite Falls can be seen from just about everywhere in the valley, but there is a fun, easy paced hike that takes visitors to the base of the falls. Glacier Point is an amazing mountain peak that provides expansive views of the valley below. It can be reached via the park shuttle and is a perfect spot to learn about the formation of Yosemite Valley. 

It’s recommended that families stop by the Yosemite Visitor Center to get information on upcoming ranger talks, recommendations on play areas for kids, and tips on what family-friendly activities may be perfect for everyone to do together. No matter which activities are chosen, it’s guaranteed that simply spending time together Yosemite National Park is enough to make family memories that last a lifetime—for grandparents, parents and children alike.  

Olivia, from the Girl With Blue Sails travel blog. Olivia is a travel writer and photographer from Southern California who shares travel guides and tips for those with first class taste on an economy class budget.

Montana Dude Ranch

One of my favorite multigenerational family trips—and one for the family travel bucket list—is a Dude Ranch experience. We did this last year at a family-run ranch in Montana, one that has been in business for over 100 years and is run by the same family for the last 75. Nine Quarter Circle Ranch is great for multigenerational vacations, with activities for the whole family.

Visiting a dude ranch is a mesmerizing vacation with quiet simplicity, especially for those of us who are city slickers! It also lends itself perfectly to travel with grandparents because the cabins are large and can fit many. (Ours allowed up to eight.) The meals are family-style, and all ages can enjoy activities like horse riding, hiking and fly fishing together. 

There are also a lot of times when families can split off and each does their own thing, like relaxing on the porch reading or enjoying a swim. While grandparents can enjoy horseback riding (my family’s certainly did!), it is optional each day.  

Grandparents on our trip often took advantage of quiet time or taking a walk while the rest of the family enjoyed a horseback ride. Families can choose from beginner, intermediate, and advanced, so depending on the experience of the rider, they will be paired on the correct ride. Kids under age 9 can enjoy easy rides with the Kiddie Wrangler, who also takes the kids for an all day picnic one of the days.

Evening activities are available for all of the guests and staff to participate in, and they are another great way to spend time together while getting to know other visitors. From baseball games to a hayride, a scavenger hunt, evening cookout, and square dancing, it is a family-fun experience sure to create lasting memories.  There is also a playground on site, where kids can play while adults socialize around a fire pit.

Visiting a Montana Dude Ranch is a wonderful and unique multigenerational family trip, and one for the memory books! And, despite their numerous trips to Walt Disney World, Hawaii, Europe, and the Caribbean, my kids referred to it as “the best vacation they had ever had.” 

Keri writes about family travel at Bon Voyage with Kids.

Grand Canyon National Park

What is more classic than a family road trip to the Grand Canyon? Located in Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most famous natural attractions in the United States. You may not realize that the Grand Canyon is far removed from any large cities, so it is best seen on a road trip.

On a multigenerational vacation you can drive to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, or combine the trip with other national parks such as Zion and Bryce Canyon in Utah. Pack plenty of water and snacks for the drive as amenities can be far away from each other.

If you are visiting the South Rim, you can camp or stay in lodges at Grand Canyon Village inside the park. Alternatively, there are several hotels in the nearby town of Tusayan, with different room types good for all ages. Note that if you are planning to visit in the summer time, you should book accommodations well ahead of time! 

If you choose to do some hiking at the Grand Canyon with kids and grandparents, note that there are shuttle buses available to the different lodges and view points within the park. The easiest and most famous trail to walk is the South Rim Trail. It is a mostly flat and offers multiple view points along the way, making it perfect for everyone from grandparents to kids to babies in strollers.

Daphna writes about family trips at A Tiny Trip.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 

Nestled away in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge has become Tennessee’s staple of family fun for generations. The majestic mountains create the ideal backdrop, as endless thrills, shows, and attractions are around every corner. Pigeon Forge becomes a destination that families revisit time and time again, bringing their children and grandchildren back to experience and create new lifelong memories. 

A highlight of any Pigeon Forge vacation is renting a cabin with the entire family. With sweeping mountain views, hot tubs, game rooms, and countless other amenities, families can choose from various cabins that best fit their needs and budget.  

Dining out is always a favorite family pastime. Nothing quite beats gathering around the table, laughing and sharing stories of days gone by. Many Pigeon Forge restaurants have something the entire family will enjoy with a fun atmosphere. Dine on a plate of southern fried chicken from the historic Old Mill, grab a burger at the Local Goat and complete your trip with a warm stack of pancakes from one of Pigeon Forge’s signature pancake houses. 

Create new traditions by seeing a dinner show, such as Dolly Parton’s Stampede or the Hatfield and McCoys. Then compete in a friendly game of putt-putt, visit Wonderworks or venture to the Island for shopping. Plan a day at Dollywood, which has various attractions aimed at all ages, from entertaining shows and thrill rides to food festivals.

Make sure you spend time enjoying the Smoky Mountain National Park. Take in the beauty through the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, hiking along a mountain stream, and pack a picnic for a day full of incredible memories. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been visiting Pigeon Forge for decades, it is easy to see why Pigeon Forge makes a great vacation with grandparents. For more ideas, see fun activities for kids in Pigeon Forge, TN!

Stephanie is the inquisitive momma behind the family travel blog, Consistently Curious.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to travel with grandparents and kids. While America’s first national park is gigantic and spans three different states, it’s one of the few national parks where hiking isn’t the main draw.

If you’re traveling to Yellowstone with young kids and older parents with limited mobility, it’s possible to drive up and take a short paved walk to incredible sights like the world’s second-biggest hot spring or a geyser that explodes 100 feet in the air.

While Yellowstone is most famous for its geothermal sights, Yellowstone has so much more to offer the traveling family. A Yellowstone itinerary with kids and grandparents could include renting a boat for the day and enjoying Lake Yellowstone, driving to the Boiling River and soaking in the only accessible (and safe) natural hot spring in the park, or taking a scenic drive to the Lamar Valley to spot bison, bears, and wolves.

If you’re traveling with a more active group, there are plenty of hiking trails in Yellowstone that the entire family can enjoy. A fantastic hike for families is Storm Point Hike, a 2.3-mile hike that takes you out to a gorgeous view of Lake Yellowstone. 

While staying in the park is the best option for easy access, the surrounding Yellowstone area has hundreds of vacation rentals that can accommodate a large family. A beautiful cabin near Yellowstone is perfect for when family members just want to relax for the day. The best areas to look for lodging are near the West Entrance in West Yellowstone, Montana, and the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana. 

Christina of Live A Wilder Life says, “We’re a full time traveling family looking for adventure, kinship, and a place to call home.”

Maine Travel with Grandparents

“Come to Maine!” my mother-in-law said. So we did. All twenty of us. 

Scattered among three houses in lovely Winter Harbor, Maine, we represented three generations, grandparents to babies. We wanted what every family wants: to reconnect.  (And to eat as much lobster as we could!!)

Multi-gen travel can be a challenge. It is not easy to find something that everyone will enjoy and can afford. Renting houses away from bigger cities tends to be the most economical option. 

Maine is filled with picture-perfect port cities, each one begging to be discovered by eager families. While the big-named cities like Bar Harbor and Portland offer exclusive shopping and dining options, smaller cities such as Rockland, Lubec and Camden have plenty of action for families.   

There is no shortage of family-friendly activities or great places to eat in Maine. You must enjoy a world-famous lobster roll at a lobster shack.   Or grab a few crustaceans from a dockside lobster pound and cook them yourself.   

An interesting and usual place is The Maine State Prison Store in Thomaston, ME. Skilled prisoners make all the furniture and kitschy items. These gifts make for great stories!

What grandpa doesn’t love to fish? Go inland, hire some fishing guides and let the tall tales begin! Many guides use beautiful hand-crafted canoes, truly a ride you won’t soon forget. Explore the rugged coastline at any number of state parks.

Finally, catch a boat to artsy Monhegan Island, located 10 miles off-shore. This small, humble island features walking trails with hidden fairy houses.

Maine is everything you could want in a family vacation. In fact, I think it’s time to go back. 

Stehli is a New York-based blogger who writes at Mommy and Kid Travel.

The Oregon Coast

One of my family’s all-time favorite places to travel with grandparents: the Oregon Coast! We’ve vacationed with both sets of grandparents all along the Oregon Coast, and my kids are constantly asking to go back.

I recommend renting a vacation home (spots all along the coast have something unique to offer; check out my post on the best Oregon Coast towns to narrow it down). That way you have a great home base.

You’ll want to spend plenty of time on the beach, of course. Know ahead of time that the ocean water is cold! You’ll also want to bring extra layers in case the wind picks up.

Next, explore the Oregon Coast’s many cute, historic downtowns. Newport, Yachats, Seaside, Cannon Beach and others have adorable shops where you can pick up a souvenir, blown glass art or even a lollipop the size of your kids’ head.

My kids’ grandparents especially love visiting the historic sites along the Oregon Coast. Stop at one of the many historic lighthouses (we love Yaquina Head Lighthouse). Pop by the small historical museums. Check out the shipwrecked Peter Iredale or soak in military history in the abandoned army fort at Ft. Stevens State Park.

Next, pick a few activities that will bring joy to your entire family, from kids to grandparents. Visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium, dig for clams, rent a boat for crabbing, take a whale watching tour and test the area’s clam chowder—and ice cream!

No matter where you spend your multigenerational vacation on the Oregon Coast, you’ll discover that this is one of the best places to travel with grandparents. Have fun!

So many ideas of places to travel to travel with grandparents!

Are you feeling inspired? Are you ready to plan a multigenerational vacation? I’m betting you are.

Now the biggest challenge you have is deciding where to travel with grandparents! With so many amazing ideas within this post, you can pick the ideal destination for your extended family.

If you’re excited to take a multigenerational trip—but you’re a little nervous making it happen—then you need to read my post with 13 tips to plan a vacation with grandparents. In the post, I share the steps needed to plan a vacation every generation will enjoy—without the most common problems of traveling with kids’ grandparents.

I’m curious: Have you ever gone on vacation with your grandparents? Have you traveled with both your kids and your parents or in-laws? Where did you go? What was the best part? Comment below—I’d love to hear about your experience and recommendations of places to travel with grandparents.

The post 21 Best Places to Travel with Grandparents in the US appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Travel with grandparents has been even more top of mind than usual. When the CDC updated its guidance—saying that it is reasonably safe for fully vaccinated adults to see their grandchildren—the Baby Boomer generation threw a party. (At least my mom did.)

The CDC also says that fully vaccinated adults, including grandparents, can travel domestically.

Pre-pandemic, we often traveled with my parents as well as Hubs’ parents. We have been to some of the best places to travel with grandparents in the US and even went abroad together.

If you want to give multigenerational travel a try—or are curious about so-called skip gen travel (when grandparents and grandchildren go on vacation without the parents!)—this post is for you.

I’ll cover the best tips for travel with grandparents, why you should consider a three-generation vacation, as well as multigenerational travel statistics (so you know you’re in good company). By the time you finish reading these tips, you’ll be ready to call up Grandma and Grandpa to start planning your trip!

Why you should travel with grandparents

1. Grandparents bond with grandkids

My #1 reason for loving multigenerational travel: There are so many opportunities to bond and make memories together!

When grandparents visit you at home, you’re still in your usual routine. Your kids might have scheduled plans or school. But when you’re on vacation together, all those other commitments fall away. That means grandparents and grandkids have a ton of time to bond.

2. Parents get 1:1 time

Not every multigenerational vacation builds in time for parents to get away—but I sure do recommend it.

The pandemic has made date nights even more rare for many couples. So when you take a vacation with grandparents, you have someone to watch the kids. (Of course, never assume your parents or in-laws are ready to be babysitters; always ask.)

This is also an opportunity for parents to explore the vacation destination without kids. Parents might want to go to a rooftop bar to watch the sunset, take in a show, hit up the casino or go dancing. Those aren’t exactly family-friendly activities—but are perfect for a date night on vacation!

3. Everyone gets some downtime

Tell me if this sounds familiar: You go on a family vacation and come back exhausted because you spent every waking minute taking care of the kids.

When you travel with grandparents, you can ask them to watch the kids for a short time. Once when we vacationed with my in-laws, they watched Baby Maxine and toddler Edie while I drove to Starbucks by myself. I sat on the beach and drank tea and I swear it felt like a week-long getaway.

The same goes for the grandparents. They probably want downtime, too. With multigenerational vacations, everyone gets a little R&R!

4. See a new side of your parents

I took family vacations when I was a kid, but it’s a totally different experience to travel with them now that I’m a parent.

One of the reasons I love travel with grandparents is I see a different side of my parents or in-laws. There’s nothing like spending time with kids to bring out their playful side!

My kids’ grandparents have also told me that exploring a new place with Maxine and Edie helps them travel in a fresh way. It’s good for everyone!

5. Learn family history

Going on a family history vacation is a popular way to travel with grandparents. You might revisit ancestors’ homeland or another important spot in your genealogy.

But you don’t have to go somewhere specific to learn family history. While on vacation with their grandparents, my kids have heard stories about the time Gramps had to sleep in the desert by himself during Navy Seals training—and woke up with a snoozing snake on top of him.

Travel sparks all kinds of memories because it jolts us out of routine. You may be surprised by the family lore you learn too!

6. Create new family memories

There’s a reason you—and your kids—vividly remember a vacation but can’t recall what you ate for dinner two nights ago. Novelty—doing something different—makes your brain pay extra-close attention. That helps solidify memories you’ll draw from for years.

Vacations are particularly great for doing things all together. It’s not very often that three generations get together for an activity in day-to-day life. But on a multigenerational vacation, you have plenty of chances to make memories together.

7. Make up for lost time

The last year was really, really hard on a lot of families. I wasn’t able to see my parents from August until April, and my kids went nearly that long without seeing them. My kids constantly ask when they can see Grams, Gramps, Nana and Grandpa Shempy.

It’s been equally tough on grandparents, if not harder.

Travel with grandparents is a way to make up for lost time. Kids change so much, so fast that I want my parents and in-laws to get to know Maxine and Edie at this stage—before they change again.

Tips to travel with grandparents and extended family

Are you hoping to travel with your kids and parents? Do you want your kids and their grandparents to vacation together?

You’ve come to the right place.

Here, I’m sharing 13 tips to travel with grandparents. I cover booking lodging, planning activities, budgeting, and the dos and don’ts of traveling with grandchildren and grandparents.

1. Talk about what you envision

Before you’ve booked anything, make sure you’re all on the same page. Do you envision an activity-packed trip or a laid-back getaway?

Agreeing on this point and any others (luxury vs budget, outdoors vs indoors, etc.) will help avoid disappointment and conflict.

If you have differing hopes for the vacation, can you compromise? Maybe spend the first two days sightseeing, then the last three days with nothing planned? When you start with clear communication, everyone feels heard.

2. Plan the vacation together

Once you’ve agreed on the overall vision for your vacation, plan together. This doesn’t have to mean sitting down with your parents or in-laws to hash out every single detail. But you’ll want to pick a place to travel with grandparents together. That way, everyone is set up to have a great time!

Involve your kids, too. If they’re old enough to research, encourage them to look into activities in your destination. Remind them of needs and limitations of their grandparents. When they pick a few activities, kids are invested up-front!

Enabling everyone to give input tees you up for a fun multigenerational trip.

3. Consider everyone’s needs when booking lodging

My family travels often enough that I have the AirBnB and hotel filters down-pat. (Dog-friendly, 2+ bedrooms, nonsmoking, etc.) I’m not as used to considering grandparents’ needs, though. That’s why it’s so crucial to have an open, honest conversation with them about what they need.

My mom, for example, needs a specific kind of bed because of long-term injuries she deals with. So when we travel together, I call ahead to ask about the beds. It may be a small detail to me—I can sleep on any bed—but it makes a world of difference to my mom.

Do your parents need separate bedrooms (snoring—it’s a real problem)? A bedroom on the first floor? An en suite bathroom? An accessible ramp?

Grandparents might also prefer to have their own lodging. No matter what setup you choose, keep everyone’s needs in mind.

4. Agree that it’s ok to do things separately

The biggest obstacle to having an awesome multigenerational vacation: disagreement over how much time to spend together. Are you stressing because you want to be together 100% of the time? Or stressing because you need some serious breaks from your parents/in-laws?

An up-front agreement that you don’t have to spend the entire vacation together solves this problem.

Again, talk this through up-front to manage expectations. Chances are, everyone will be happier without the pressure to do everything together.

For example, when we took a multigenerational trip to Tulum, my dad’s knee was acting up. Because we didn’t have the expectation that we’d stick together no matter what, he was able to lounge by the pool while the rest of us explored the Tulum ruins—guilt-free.

5. Do activities that interest everyone

That said, you’ll want to do some activities together! Choose at least a few that appeal to everyone, no matter their age. You might plan to go to the beach, scope out a short hike, or taste test all the ice cream shops in town.

6. Be clear with plans

I’m a huge fan of clearly communicating your plans—then giving others the chance to join or not.

I learned this the hard way. On one multigenerational vacation, I had wanted to take Maxine and Edie out for an adventure. I waited for others to get ready to join… and waited… and waited… By the time others were ready, two hours had passed, my kids were crying because they couldn’t understand why they weren’t going in the swimming pool, and it had reached the hottest part of the day.

Lesson learned.

Now I say something like this:

“I’m taking the kids to the market at 10. Does anyone want to join or meet us later?”

This approach is also a total miracle when vacationing with folks who aren’t on your routine/laid-back vibe. If you’re a go-getter and planner, but grandparents are more into leisurely sipping coffee and seeing where the wind blows them, this strategy will save you.

7. Respect everyone’s pace

Adding more people to a vacation generally means adding a wider variety of styles, abilities and preferences. Everyone will be happier if you make accomodations.

If your toddler wants to inspect every fallen leaf on a hike, that means slowing for them. If your in-laws have mobility limitations, don’t try to hurry them.

It’s no fun feeling like you’re holding up everyone else. So do your best to embrace their pace.

If, on the other hand, you need to split up and meet up later, that’s a good solution too.

8. Build in R&R

I love to go and do. I like to see all the things and explore all the places. I’m also a big advocate of chilling out.

Building in time to relax is even more important when planning travel with grandparents. Everyone will have more fun if they’re rested. That goes equally for kids and grandparents alike!

9. Communicate about costs

Who is paying for the vacation with extended family? Who will cover what? Are you splitting up the house rental by the number of bedrooms each group is using, or splitting the expense down the middle?

There’s no right or wrong way to pay for a vacation with grandparents. Just make sure everyone is clear ahead of time.

You’ll also want to figure out a way to keep track of costs, if you’re sharing the expense. Will one of you pay for everything and split it later? Will you pay your share as you go through an app like Venmo? Deciding ahead of time will avoid awkward money conversations in the moment.

10. Consider a parent date night (or day)

You don’t want to treat the grandparents like glorified babysitters and ditch them all vacation long. That said, it’s awesome to have a chance to spend some 1:1 time with your partner.

For example, when we traveled to Las Vegas with Hubs’ parents a while back, my in-laws suggested we do a belated anniversary data night. Hubs and I made dinner reservations and left the kiddos in the hotel with Grams and Gramps.

Maxine and Edie had an amazing time. They swam in the pool, ate mac n cheese and watched a movie. Hubs and I got a rare chance to go out, just the two of us. I absolutely recommend planning a parent date night.

The key to making this work: clear communication. If you’re hoping to get away for a few hours, bring it up with the grandparents before you leave on vacation. Discuss what time of day would be best for them to watch your kids. (They may not feel comfortable doing nap time or bed time, for example.)

When you get on the same page about a date night, everyone will feel good about the plans.

11. Give grandparents and grandkids space to bond

Bonding with their grandkids is the top reason why grandparents want to do multigenerational travel. Give them the space to do just that.

Of course you’ll want to do things all together. But take a hands-off approach sometimes, too.

When my dad joined us on a trip to Tulum, Mexico, for example, I sometimes faded into the background when he hung out with my kids. They developed a special “routine” of tossing bites of food to an iguana that eventually scuttled right up to them.

Yes, I know that we shouldn’t feed wildlife. But more than two years later Maxine and Edie still debate what was the iguana’s favorite food. (Strawberry or macaroni??)

So when grandparents and grandkids are bonding, take a step back. Let them develop a relationship on their own. And try not to sweat it if Grams and Gramps don’t parent exactly as you would. (For example, when Maxine and Edie spend time with my in-laws, they get pancakes with whipped cream every morning for breakfast. )

12. Be prepared to be the sandwich generation

Have you ever heard of the term “sandwich generation”? It refers to the time when you are caring for both your children and your parents.

I’m not suggesting that you cut your parents’ grapes in half to prevent choking. But don’t be surprised if you end up caring for your parents at least a little bit.

As our parents age, they might not be as comfortable in unfamiliar situations or new places. Ask your parents what they might need help with. (This is generally the thing that is causing them the most anxiety.) Should you make them a packing list? Would very explicit driving directions help? (We once made the mistake of assuming my dad could find a home rental via a maps app. That did not go well.)

You may find yourself considering them when you pack up. For example, do they have snacks and water for the day’s excursion? Are they wearing sunscreen and a hat? Of course you’ll want to be sensitive in how you look out for them—no one wants to be babied—but they’ll probably appreciate your looking out for them.

13. Take all the photos!

As the saying goes, your kids are this age only once. The same can be said for your parents.

I take plenty of photos whenever we do multigenerational vacations. It’s so, so, so special to look back on those pictures! The images always spark memories of what we did together.

When you go on a multigenerational trip, you’ll never be able to recreate those moments together. So don’t be shy about taking lots of pictures.

On one trip with the grandparents, we had professional photos taken. I booked a photographer in Las Vegas through Flytographer, who captured some of my favorite-ever family photos.

Want $25 off a Flytographer shoot? Use my referral code. I loved our experience with Flytographer! (not sponsored)

Multigenerational travel statistics

Multigenerational travel has never been more popular. Many grandparents went months—or even a year—without seeing their grandkids during the pandemic. Now that more and more people are fully vaccinated (YAY!), families are making up for lost time.

So when you travel with grandparents, you’re far from alone. But don’t take my word from it. Here are recent multigenerational travel statistics.

• More than half of families have taken a vacation with grandparents. (source)
• 65% of families plan to take a vacation with grandparents in the future. (source)
• 6 in 10 kids say they feel closer to their grandparents after taking a trip together. (source)
• 65% of kids say they like to reminisce about taking vacations with grandparents. (source)
• More than half of parents say they plan multigenerational trips to create family traditions. (source)

What is skip-generational travel?

Skip-generational vacations are becoming more and more popular. This type of travel is when kids and grandparents travel together—and leave parents at home!

One in five parents say their kids have taken a skip-gen trip—that is, traveled with grandparents without the parents. More than a third of grandparents said they’re planning a skip-gen vacation in the next three years.

The best part about skip-generational travel: Spending uninterrupted time together. Parents, kids and grandparents all say that bonding time is the main highlight of parents-free travel.

I never traveled with just my grandparents when I was a kid. Maxine and Edie go on trips with both sets of grandparents several times a year. They haven’t done big, long, epic trips yet; for the most part, these skip-gen vacations are for a weekend in a nearby destination.

Hubs and I value the few days without kids even more since the pandemic began. But honestly, I care much more about the opportunity for grandparents and grandchildren to bond.

The post Travel with Grandparents: 13 Must-Know Tips for Multigenerational Vacations appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

I’ve learned a lot about what to do—and what not to do—when planning a trip and heading out of town. 2020 taught me plenty. I’m passing on those lessons in this post with the most important travel tips for future travel.

Don’t get stuck making the same 2020 travel mistakes. Consider this post a quick upgrade to your vacation planning habits!

In this post, I’ll cover travel advice for the dos and don’ts of

• refunds for canceled plans
• flexible bookings
• discounts and deals for cheaper travel
• COVID-friendly destinations
• and more!

Use these tips to make your 2021 travel goals a reality this year.

2021 travel must be refundable

2020 problem: Losing money from canceled plans

2021 fix: Book only fully refundable travel plans—and document them!

If I had a dollar for every dollar I lost in non-refundable travel plans last year…. well, I’d break even.

Point is, I know I’m not alone in that I ended up having to cancel a lot of trips, flights, lodging and other travel plans. And I’m betting you’re like me in that you didn’t get all that money back.

So going forward, read all the fine print regarding travel companies’ cancellation policies. Are there exceptions to the rules? (Last year, a lot of people couldn’t get refunds because the pandemic was deemed an unforeseeable act of God. I guess there’s a clause for that.)

Then document all the cancellation guarantees throughout each step of your planning. Take screenshots, save-as-PDF your confirmation emails, everything: You want to have irrefutable proof if you ever have to dispute a company’s handling of your refund.

2021 travel must be flexible

2020 problem: Expensive fees for changing flights and other bookings

2021 fix: Ensure your travel dates can be moved without penalty.

Remember when we were oh-so-cute and thought COVID would blow over after a few weeks of lockdown and flattening the curve?

Some folks tallied up big bills from fees when they pushed their flights and other bookings farther into the future, figuring it’d just be a short time til they could travel freely again. All those fees add up!

So before you reserve anything, make sure you can change the dates of a flight, AirBnB stay or other reservation—free of charge. You want to remain flexible so you can safely adapt to changing conditions.

Open Groupons right before you use them

2020 problem: Unused Groupons and other online deals

2021 fix: Wait until the last minute to redeem deals.

Businesses that rely on travelers have been eager to attract visitors. That can be good news for your travel budget, as many are offering discounts and deals.

Many of these deals are too good to pass up. You’ll still want to be flexible with your travel in 2021. That’s why I recommend not opening or redeeming your coupon or deal until right before you use it.

Last year, we’d planned on going to Wildlife Safari in Oregon at the end of the summer. I had the discounted tickets I got from Groupon all printed and ready to go. But a day or two before our family trip, wildfires broke out all over the West.

I know that fires don’t have anything to do with COVID cancelations, but the principle is the same (since once you open and download a Groupon, it’s considered redeemed and you can’t “return” it).

Now I know to wait to use discounts until the last minute.

I’m about to share more travel planning tips, but I also want to make sure you know about my super-quick training on minimizing risk while you travel. Click the image below to find out more!

Watch the infection rates where you travel

2020 problem: A spike in cases throws a wrench in your plans

2021 fix: Keep an eye on infection rates.

Last year, I couldn’t wait to travel to the Southwest US: The thought of sun and desert got me through the first grey, cold, dark months of the winter.

But Hubs and I paid attention to infection rates where we’d planned to go. When they got too high for our comfort, we researched other locations that still had sun and desert.

Unfortunately, those places followed suit (as did much of the US this winter). We ended up not taking our Southwest trip (sob!)—yet. But the moral of this story is to pay close attention to the communities you plan to visit as well as the places you travel through.

Pick less popular destinations in 2021

2020 problem: Travel plans that involve crowds

2021 fix: Choose vacation destinations with fewer people around

Last spring, when the pandemic was just beginning, we had to cancel a lot of plans. (I 100% recognize how fortunate we are to be in a position that we could have traveled in the first place, and every day I’m grateful for everything we still have—a home, our health, each other. Still, not traveling makes me sad.)

So I let my mind wander. I started to dream up all the trips we’d take once we could travel far. And for some reason, I fixated on one place: Disneyland!

I wanted to make up for all our disappointment with an over the top trip. We tentatively planned to drive down to Anaheim in November for a family trip.

Of course that didn’t happen.

By now I’ve learned to plan travel in places that aren’t crowded (as much as I love the flying Dumbo ride). I’ll be making future plans with that 2021 travel tip in mind. Fewer crowds = less exposure = less risk of contracting or spreading germs.

Focus on outdoors activities

2020 problem: Not understanding how COVID-19 is spread

2021 fix: Spend time outdoors during 2021 vacations

Back when we knew very little about the coronavirus, I had a conversation that went something like this.

Friend: “Thank goodness my kids don’t eat gluten and eat a ton of veggies. At least their immune systems will be able to fight off this virus.”

Me, thinking about how Max eats approximately 5 foods, none of which is a fruit or vegetable: “….”

Point is, now we know to avoid the conditions where the virus is more likely to spread: i.e. indoors. So to minimize your risk while traveling in 2021, experts recommend spending time outside.

That’s why we now plan our travel around outdoor activities. Hiking, sightseeing, SUPing, camping, playing on the beach—these open-air activities will be our 2021 travel focus!

Choose quality over quantity for vacations

2020 mistake: Trying to go to all the places

2021 fix: Focus on making the trips you do take as awesome as possible

I love travel. Like, a lot. (I know—you’re shocked.) So I pretty much want to go somewhere new all the time.

COVID has made travel more complicated, though. Just following all these 2021 travel tips makes planning a trip take longer.

That’s why it makes sense to focus on fewer trips—but to make those vacations awesome.

Pinterest is seeing a 7x increase in searches for dream vacations so lots of folks agree with me here. (And if you’re looking for a bucket list trip to take with your besties, check out my post on the best girls trip destinations for 2021!)

A trip doesn’t have to be faraway or expensive to be epic, though. Just think of a road trip through two national parks. One of my dream trips is to stay on Orcas Island and kayak with whales. (Yes, that’s a thing!!!)

Stay local for travel in 2021

2020 problem: Trips to far-flung places were canceled

2021 fix: Go on vacations closer to home.

Last spring, I canceled trips to China, Taiwan, Ethiopia and Japan. I also canceled shorter, less ambitious trips, but those epic travels stung the most.

I’ve learned since then. My family and I are taking local and regional trips instead.

First of all, road trips are the future for travel in 2021 in part because they’re cheaper, more flexible, and more easily rerouted if the need arises. Driving someplace nearby is more reliable than booking a flight and hoping for the best!

Plus, many countries have instituted travel bans—a definite problem for international travel, even if you did feel comfortable traveling by plane.

So to pandemic-proof your vacations this year, opt for nearby destinations. Just because someplace is close doesn’t mean it’s uninteresting! Explore your region, state or even city. Pretend to be a tourist who’s never been there. You’ll experience even well trodden territory in a new way!

Talk about trips as hopeful, not written in stone

2020 problem: Telling your kids about canceled vacations

2021 fix: Make vacation hopes, not vacation plans

In 2020, I had plans to take Edie to China and Taiwan over an extended spring break. Clearly, that trip got canceled.

My mistake was to tell her that we’d go camping in Washington instead. Those ended up being more plans we had to cancel to abide by lockdown orders in our state.

Piling disappointment onto disappointment is no fun for everyone. That’s why I’m now talking about travel as something we hope we can do.

Nothing is written in stone. We remind the kids that all upcoming plans depend on safety.

My 2021 travel tip is to follow suit. Try these phrases to talk about upcoming travel:

• “If everything stays safe, we’ll go to the coast this weekend.”
• “I hope we can go on our trip next month. We’re keeping an eye on everything so we can stay healthy and protect others.”
• “I want to go on our vacation too! Fingers crossed we can go!”

Nurture a flexible mindset

Not long ago, my kids and I took a day trip to Central Oregon. They’re obsessed with dinosaurs, so I researched a place to dig for fossils and thunder eggs. I meticulously copied the directions to one such place—and I couldn’t find it. Like, at all.

Were Max and Edie heartbroken? No! (I had wisely not mentioned the fossils part—see my 2021 travel tip above.) Instead, we treated it as an unexpected adventure. A detour. A thing that sometimes happens when you travel.

If 2020 taught me anything, it’s that I really don’t have control over a whole lot. (You too?) We had soooo many opportunities to practice not being attached to outcomes that we became more flexible. My kids definitely picked up on that!

And honestly, a flexible mindset is useful beyond travel. I’m generally anti-silver linings regarding COVID, but I have to admit that this is a positive change for my whole family.

Another thing that has totally helped us all is to figure out what we can control. I get asked what we can do to travel more safely so often, which is why I created a mini-training online. Safe + Healthy Travel Today shares science-backed tips to minimize your risk while you hit the road—and it takes only 20 minutes to go through! Just click the image below to learn more.

I’m curious: What lessons did you learn from disappointments last year? Please share your own 2021 travel tips in the comments!

The post 2021 Travel Tips: How to pandemic-proof your next vacation appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

I hear this problem again and again: “I want to plan a family vacation but just don’t know where to go!”

Does that strike a chord?

That’s why I’ve outlined 5 different approaches to choose a spot your whole family will love.

As a quick preview—I’ll cover how to:

• Search google to find kid friendly travel
• Hunt through local tourism publications and parenting magazines
• Read family travel blogs
• Use Instagram hashtags
• Filter by your family’s interests and passions

Ready to get off the fence and pick a family friendly destination? Ready to feel confident about your choice? Read on for the best tips to find kid friendly travel.

***Note: If you’re still feeling like this will take too long, I have just the thing for you! I recently created Vacay in One Day, a step-by-step solution that guides you through picking a place to go—in only an hour. So if you’re short on time and want to skip the stress, check out Vacay in One Day! The small investment is well worth the savings in time and overwhelm.***

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Blogger Catherine Ryan Gregory (@toandfrofam)

This post may contain affiliate links. When you click and buy, I earn a small income at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting To & Fro Fam and my ability to bring you free content!

Google “family friendly + [your region]”

Yes, this tip is the most obvious—and your first stop for finding kid friendly travel ideas.

Google will instantly show you lists of kid friendly things to do, places to stay and spots to eat. You can click through the different posts to brainstorm ideas of where to go.

If you don’t start out with specific ideas (like I want to go to Nashville!), you can search by state or region. A search of “family friendly Northeast US” will result in lists of kid friendly travel destinations in the region. So if you don’t have strong opinions on whether you’d like to visit Vermont vs New Hampshire vs Maine, this is a good strategy.

Most of the articles will include options for the entire region, not just one state or city.

(If you feel like this is taking too long, I teach the 5-Minute Search Strategy in Vacay in One Day. You’ll learn how to evaluate if a spot is a good destination for your trip in just 5 minutes!)

Look at local tourism publications and parent magazines

Local tourism boards and bureaus’ sole job is to share what awesome things there are to do in that area. So they’re an excellent place to find information about visiting a city, county, region or state.

If you know a general area where you want to go (like, say, the Southwest USA), you can search “Southwest US tourism board.” Poke around in the site a bit. Are there things your family would want to do? (These sites are often organized by categories like outdoors, cities and events, or by types of places to go like deserts, rivers and mountains.

You can also filter by family friendly destinations and activities. Type “with kids” or another relevant keyword into the search bar.

The same goes for local parenting magazines and publications. These are designed to help parents in a given area have fun with their kids—and hey, that’s what you want to do too!

For example, I’ve written about kid friendly travel for my local parent magazine, PDX Parent. I have shared the best family friendly camping spots around Portland and other travel articles in PDX Parent.

Not sure of your local parent magazine, or the one in the area where you want to travel? Just search “parent magazine + [location]”—it’ll pop right up.

Then see if you can find a “travel” tab or section. If not, use the search bar to hunt for specifics (like day trips or hiking spots).

Read local family travel blogs

Of course I think family travel blogs are a phenomenal resource for finding kid friendly travel ideas! Most family travel blogs have a “destinations” tab, with a drop-down menu of states, regions or even countries. (That’s how mine is organized!)

This is a particularly helpful way to find family friendly destinations because if you’re not sure exactly where you want to go (hence why you’re reading this) but know roughly how far you can travel in the allotted time, you can estimate which states you could travel to.

For example, let’s say I have 5 days for an upcoming vacation. Since I’m in Oregon, I’d figure out how far I could travel. That’s not enough time to drive far—but I could definitely stay in Oregon, go north to Washington, south to Northern California, or even east to Idaho. With only 5 days, I wouldn’t go much farther or else the entire vacation would be driving.

So I could search family travel blogs’ Oregon, Washington, Northern California and Idaho destination bars.

(Sometimes the destinations are organized by region—like Southwest or Pacific Northwest.)

Find kid friendly travel with Instagram hashtags

If you have a destination in mind but aren’t sure if it’s kid friendly, you can poke around on Instagram hashtags to learn more.

In the search bar in Instagram, play around with hashtags. For example, if you were thinking about going to Brooklyn, NY, you could search #brooklynkids, #brooklynfamily and #brooklynmoms.

Not every picture that comes up will be relevant—but you’ll get some ideas of fun things to do.

When you find one of those photos, enlarge it and check out the other hashtags it uses. Click on any that feel relevant—you’ll find even more ideas.

(On the other hand, if nothing looks interesting, then that might not be a good kid friendly destination for your family!)

Remember, if this is still feeling like too much—or you’re simply short on time—I’ll teach you exactly how to pick a place to travel in Vacay in One Day. The step-by-step, fill-in-the-blank process takes only an hour! Click the image below to get it now!

Let your family’s interests guide you

What interests one family won’t necessarily get another excited. So when looking for kid friendly travel destinations, keep your family’s passions in mind.

What do your kids like to do? What are their hobbies? What are they obsessed with?

Lately, Edie and Max are alllll about dinosaurs. Maxine holds her spoon with two fingers, since the quetzalcoatlus has two finger/claws at the point of each wing. My mom got them dinosaur backpacks so they could be like Dino Dana.

So I could use those interests to help us find an amazing family vacation destination for us, not some generic idea of what most-ish kids would like.

Here’s how. First, you can search “[interest] + [state/region].” If I had the same 5 days for a trip as I described above, I could do this search for each of the states we could easily travel to within that time.

For example, “Dinosaur Washington” shows the Burke Museum of Paleontology as well as dinosaur-shaped plant sculptures in Seattle. Those sound cool! Another quick search of “family friendly Seattle” makes it clear we could round out our trip with lots of other fun activities.

That’s how you can use a combination of these strategies to find kid friendly travel ideas to find the just-right vacation for your family.

Tell me: How do you decide where to go on a family vacation? How do you research a trip to make sure it’ll be fun for your kids?

PS – Still not sure where to go? Get my mini-guide Top 10 US Family Vacation Destinations download. It’s 100% free and will definitely inspire you! Click the link or the image below to get yours!

Pin these for later so you always have ideas for finding kid friendly travel!

The post How to find kid friendly travel: 5 ways to pick your next family vacation appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

I’m betting you’ve fallen down the google or Pinterest rabbit hole before, spiraling deeper into articles on the top family vacation destinations in your area. (You’re so not alone!)

If you don’t know where to start, simply read this article (and pin it for later, or share with a friend who might feel similarly overwhelmed). Here, I’m teaching you multiple strategies to help you pick where to go on a family vacation, no matter your location or your budget.

(If you just want straight-up recommendations for specific places, check out my guide, Top 10 U.S. Family Vacation Destinations, which is a part of my family travel checklist bundle.)

Ready to find an amazing spot for a family getaway? Let’s do this.

1. Fill in the blank: I’ve always wanted to go ____

If you’re interested in travel, you probably have a few bucket list destinations you’d love to visit. Not all of them will be terribly family friendly or affordable, but you’d be surprised at the kid-friendly activities and attractions you’d find in many places.

For example, maybe you always wanted to go to Las Vegas. At first glance, Sin City wouldn’t likely be your top family vacation destination. But as we recently experienced, Vegas has days’ worth of fun, kid-friendly things to do.

So don’t write off the places you want to go just because they’ve been on your bucket list since before you had kids. With a little research, you might discover these spots are the perfect place for a family vacation.

2. Ask nearby friends for recommendations

This tip is especially relevant if you’re on a tight budget or don’t have a ton of vacation time. Simply start a text thread or go on social media asking local friends where they’ve vacationed recently.

To help them point you in the right direction, give some parameters. Try, “I’m looking for a top family vacation destination within a 2-hour drive.” Or, “Local friends: Can you recommend an awesome hotel at less than $125 a night with cool things to do nearby?” Giving your friends a little information to work with will spark their ideas and make their recommendations more relevant to you.

3. Follow family travel bloggers

Yes, I’m a family travel blogger, and I hope you follow me on social media! But don’t stop with just me. Find other family travel bloggers and influencers who fit your values, travel style or preferred travel type.

There are so many different ways to travel as a family. Some family travel bloggers focus on a region; others do luxury travel or camping; some focus on traveling with big families or with the grandparents, too.

No matter what you’re looking for, you can find great bloggers and influencers. When you follow them on social media, you’ll get ideas of where you might want to go on your next family vacation.

4. Find cheap destinations for the time you can travel

Technology is making it easier to find deals these days. So if you know when you can travel but aren’t sure where to go for a family vacation, check out sites that recommend destinations by price.

Google Flights, Skyscanner and Escape can all be used to plug in your home airport and your timing. Then with a single click, these sites will show destinations, starting with the cheapest.

Not every one of them will be a slam dunk, but you might be surprised at the deals you can get when you’re flexible!

With restrictions around the coronavirus, you might not want to fly these days—but this strategy can work with other kinds of family travel, too.

Check the usual travel aggregators (like Expedia) for deals they are promoting. You can get huge discounts—like up to 80% off—if you’re not committed to one particular place.

Poke around and you might surprise yourself!

5. Look at direct flights of about 2 hours

I’m all about making family travel easier. And I know you’ll agree that taking a short, direct flight with kids is a lot easier than lugging them clear across the country with multiple layovers.

So do a quick search of direct flights from your airport. Look at ones that last only a few hours. The 2-hour window is perfect for young kids—just long enough for them to watch a movie or go through all the new toys you packed in your carry on, but not so long that they’ll go crazy from being cooped up.

You’ll get some fresh ideas of family vacation destinations! (Even if you might need to hold off on air travel for the time being, keep this tip in your pocket for when COVID is more under control.)

6. Look at destinations within a 2-hour drive

The same thing can be said of road trips. A 2-hour drive is typically manageable for young kids. They’ll likely only need one potty break or diaper change, and it’s short enough that you’ll arrive before the entire family questions why you left home at all.

(If the idea of road trips feels overwhelming, I have two great resources for you: #1 is my post on road trip supplies so your trip is easier and more organized; #2 is my new course Rock Your Road Trip, which teaches parents the three strategies to make road trips way less stressful and way more fun.)

You’d be surprised at how many undiscovered destinations are near where you live. We travel a ton, and still there are towns and other attractions we’ve never explored.

That sounds like a perfect recipe for a family road trip!

Thinking of where to go on a family vacation through this lens can uncover fantastic ideas that are also cheaper to travel to, since your transportation just requires gas money.

And you’d be in good company if you opted to take a road trip. Nearly 50% of Americans said they’re going on more road trips than usual. It’s understandable why: It’s much easier to be socially distant when you’re road tripping.

7. Visit friends for a cheap vacation destination

If you’re not sure where to go on family vacation, why not visit out of town friends? Chances are, you haven’t seen them in a while. Plus, they’ll have the inside scoop on the best kid-friendly activities, restaurants and tips in their town.

You may even be able to stay with them, saving money on lodging! (If, of course, you’ve been similarly careful about minimizing your risk and share comfort levels with how much contact you’ll have.)

One caveat: I recommend being really clear and up-front on the time you’ll spend with your out of town friends. If you go during the week, don’t expect them to play tour guide: They likely have jobs, schedules and other commitments. So assure them that you’ll show yourself around, though you’d appreciate recommendations.

Then you can spend the weekend all together, catching up and making up for lost time!

8. Draw inspiration from a children’s book on travel

I’m always reading with my kids (I admit we usually read to them through most meals). It makes sense, then, that we sometimes get inspired to travel by the books we read!

Maxine and Edie are often asking if we can visit different places that are settings in the books on our shelves and at our library. So if you’re looking for a place to travel together, see what destinations most intrigue your kids.

Not sure where to start? Order a handful of our favorite children’s books about travel and see where your imagination takes you!

9. Follow your kids’ passions

When you’re looking for family vacation destinations, dive deep into something your kids are learning or what they’re most interested in. Is there something they’ve been studying at school or in lessons you could build a trip around? Are they currently obsessed with a hobby? Use their interests as clues for a family vacation that’s guaranteed to keep them engaged and excited.

(Not sure? Ask them! They’ll have plenty of ideas.)

For example, Maxine has been obsessed with cheetahs for ages. So we’re planning on visiting Wildlife Sarari in Southern Oregon, which is home to the country’s most successful cheetah breeding program!

If your child is into science or engineering, plan a road trip with stops in each city’s science and hands-on museums. There’s truly no limit!

Finding the best family vacation destination for your family

I know you have way more ideas on where to go on a family vacation after reading this article. Is your mind already buzzing with possibilities? Do you have a direction for your research? I bet you do—and I know that’s better than spending hours aimlessly wandering Pinterest and Google!

If you’re still feeling stuck, I designed a mini-guide to 10 top family vacation destinations in the US. It’s part of my Complete Family Travel Checklist Bundle, which includes PDFs that outline exactly what to pack for all sorts of family vacation scenarios, from road trips to carry-on packing guidelines. The bundle also includes a pre-trip checklist so you never forget to find a pet sitter in time or turn down the heat before you leave.

No matter how you pick the spot for your next family vacation, I’m so glad you’re going. We both know that making time to be with your family is one of the best ways to bond and make memories together.

Happy travels!

Where are your favorite places to vacation as a family? Your recommendation just might inspire another To & Fro Fam reader!

The post How to decide where to go for family vacation: 9 ways to find kid-friendly spots appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

This post contains affiliate links. By clicking and buying, you help me earn a small income (at no extra cost to you!) so I can continue bringing you free travel content.

But before I reveal all my pro cooler packing hacks, I have a question: Have you gotten a copy of my book yet? Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids shares 33 fun, customizable games and free printables that will keep you entertained on the road. Click the image below to get your copy in e-book or paperback!

Why is packing a cooler important?

Keeping foods colder longer is important whether you’re camping, road tripping or just going out for the day. Of course you probably agree that food and drinks just taste better when they’re cold. In addition, here are the actually important reasons to pack a cooler right:

1. Properly packing a cooler ensures food stays colder—and therefore safer. Temperature fluctuations create an environment where bacteria and other baddies can grow.
2. Cooler organization helps you find everything faster. I think you’ll agree that rummaging around in a cooler—scraping your knuckles on ice cubes, even—is no fun.

Friends, I totally geeked out on this post on how to pack a cooler. Yep, that’s right—I made an infographic. I’m a visual learner, and you might be too.

And, at the very least, Hubs can use the below diagram if he ever has to pack the cooler without me. 😉

How to pack a cooler—the smart, organized way

1. Loose ice on top. 

This top layer is like icing: It finishes off packing a cooler by ensuring every square inch of the cooler is primed to stay cold. Leaving unused space will make everything inside the cooler heat up more quickly, since air gets warmer more quickly than water or ice does. 

You’ll also pack the densest ice on the bottom of your cooler, so this top layer ensures food near the top stays cold, too.

2. Use square reusable containers.

I’m a big fan of bringing prepped food camping and on road trips. That way I don’t have to break out the cutting board and knife if I want to slice some peppers for lunch or chop a bunch of veggies for a foil dinner.

I put all that prepped food in reusable containers—but use square ones! Round containers take up more space and don’t pack together efficiently. You’ll use valuable cooler real estate unless you stick to square and rectangular containers.

3. Gather lunch supplies in a bag. 

Fill a zippered plastic bag with everything you’ll need for your first meal while camping or on a road trip. 

I’m guessing you’re like me, and that when you get to camp or hit the road, you have plenty of other things to do besides rummage around a cooler. So stash everything for that meal in one place. You won’t get hangry—and you won’t keep the cooler open longer than necessary. That’s a good thing for the longevity of your ice!

4. Store foods vertically.

Can you tell I heart Marie Kondo? If you’ve read her blockbuster book on organizing or watched her Netflix show, you know she’s a fanatic in storing clothing vertically. I’m the same, except for food. Whether I’m packing a cooler or storing dry goods for a long road trip, I try to keep everything stacked vertically—not horizontally.

Why?

When you pack items vertically, you can see more at a glance. You won’t have to dig through layers of ice and food to get the one thing at the very bottom. 

5. Beverages at the bottom.

Pack your La Croix, beer or pop at the bottom of your cooler. You don’t want your drinks crushing the rest of your food!

If you have the space, though, pack a separate, smaller cooler just for drinks. I like this drinks cooler for a few reasons: a) It can store more than three dozen drinks. So when you refrigerate all those drinks before you leave on your trip, they’ll help keep each other cold. b) This cooler is collapsible. So when you near the end of your trip and have eaten most of your food, you can fold down the drinks cooler and combine everything in the main cooler. 

6. Loose ice fills the gaps.

Think of a perfectly packed cooler like a cake: It has layers and makes for a delicious outing. In this case, loose ice is the frosting between two layers of cake. 

You cover the bottom layer of the cooler in ice for two reasons:

1. A layer of loose ice ensures all of the foods stay cold and safe, not just those at the bottom and top.
2. Loose ice fills gaps in between food items. Pockets of air stay warmer, melting the ice more quickly. 

7. Freeze food you don’t need immediately.

If you’re packing a cooler for more than a few days, there will be ingredients you won’t need until later in your trip. When possible, freeze these items and use them as a solid ice layer.

So if, for example, you’re planning chicken sausages for dinner on night 3, freeze them. The frozen food will help keep the entire cooler cold; the frozen food will stay fresher; and the frozen food will thaw by the time you’re ready to eat it.

8. Freeze water bottles.

My kids don’t just ask for water when they’re thirsty. Max and Edie routinely request “ice cold water.” Unfortunately, camping and road trips make fulfilling that request a lot harder than it is at home.

But! That’s why I love this trick. Instead of buying a bunch of ice packs, we freeze bottles of water instead. Just leave some room for the ice to expand.

Fiji water bottles are rectangular and so work best, but any water bottle will do.

A few days into your camping trip or road trip, the bottles of water will have thawed. Then you and your whole crew can enjoy ice cold water!

9. Solid ice forms a foundation.

At the very base of your cooler, pack a layer of solid ice.

We reuse the ice packs we receive with meal delivery services. (We order a few times a month from Freshly, which delivers fully cooked and ready to heat gluten-free meals. Here is a link if you want to try Freshly and get $40 off.)

Solid ice is important here because it melts more slowly than loose ice. As a result, it’ll help keep the entire cooler cold for longer.

These tips will work in any kind of trip, whether you’re packing a cooler for camping, a road trip, a beach day or anything else. 

Read on for situation-specific tips on packing a cooler the right way. 

How to pack a cooler for camping

I’m channeling all my stir craziness into camping—so my family and I are doing a lot of camping during this COVID summer. As a result, I’ve had some extra opportunities to learn even more cooler packing strategies. And I’m here to teach you how to pack a cooler for camping specifically.

You’ll want to follow all the above steps and organization rules. 

In addition, you’ll want to find a shady place to stash your cooler once you arrive at your campsite. Under a picnic table or under trees tends to work well. 

If you can’t store your cooler in the shade, at least use a reflective shade or cover. Reflective shades bounce 70% or more of sunlight away from your cooler, helping preserve the ice and food inside. This is especially important if you don’t have easy access to ice when you’re camping.

Plus, the reflective shade kind of makes it look like you’re futuristic aliens who like to camp. 

Finally, you’ll want to safely store your cooler at night. Food left outside can attract critters from ground squirrels to bears. I’m pretty sure you don’t want to share your food with wild animals.

If you’re car camping, stash the cooler in the car or its trunk. If you’re in bear country, store all food in a bear box elevated off the ground. 

Take it from a gal who once woke up in a tent to the sound of a skunk snacking on our food, which we unwisely/drunkenly left out overnight. 

How to pack a cooler for a road trip

Yes, I know that you might be taking a road trip to go camping. If that’s the case, all these tips and strategies apply! Here are the cooler packing ideas specific to a road trip.

As you pack all your gear in the car, pack the empty cooler, too. That way you know you have a perfectly cooler-shaped spot available for when you add all your food.

Packing a cooler should be an almost-last thing to do before you leave. (If you’re tired of forgetting things, you’ll appreciate the full pre-trip checklist I created.) That way, the food stays cooler longer.

Then the cooler is the very last thing to pack in the car—besides your crew, that is!

When the cooler is right next to the hatch or trunk, it’s easily accessible whenever you stop on your road trip. You definitely don’t want to have to unearth the cooler from a mountain of other gear!

Last tip: When possible, pack your cooler in the main part of the car, not the trunk. This tip isn’t relevant to those of us with a minivan. But if you drive a sedan, you probably noticed that the trunk heats up in the summer! You want to protect your cooler, and the food inside, from such extreme temperatures. 

Should I drain the water from a cooler?

This question has experts and even scientists arguing over who is right. But when it comes to whether you should drain the water from a cooler, the answer is: it depends.

When you should not drain the water from a cooler

Much of the time, you don’t want to drain the water from a cooler. That’s because the melted ice is still colder than the air that would replace the space water had formerly taken up. So if you let out a gallon of melted ice water, the equivalent of a gallon of air will now be in your cooler instead.

Not good if you want to keep cold foods colder. 

When you should drain the water from a cooler

A couple of exceptions from the general rule of letting the water chill out in the cooler:

1. If you still have lots of solid or loose ice, drain the water from a cooler. This is because water causes the remaining ice to melt more quickly. So to preserve the ice you have, empty your cooler.
2. Right before you add fresh ice, drain the water from your cooler. If you have access to fresh ice, make sure you’re not adding it to a melty ice water soup. It’ll stay colder longer.
3. Drain the cooler water before you have to move it. If you’re lugging the cooler around, leaving the melted ice water inside makes it heavy. Save your back; drain the water. 
4. If anything spills in the cooler, drain the water. You don’t want food sitting in a cocktail of water and salsa. Yuck.
   This happened recently on our camping trip in Central Oregon: I brought along a can of whipped cream, thinking it would be a nice treat for Max and Edie. I didn’t realize the dang whipped cream would squirt every time anyone bumped it, so we ended up with whipped cream water all over everything.

You didn’t realize there was so much to correctly packing a cooler, did you? Now I bet you understand why Hubs leaves it to me. 😉

Read the how-to instructions below for a quick recap.

How to Pack a Cooler for Camping + Road Trips

Print

If you want to keep your food colder, fresher and safer for longer, you need to pack your cooler correctly. Here, I'll share step by step how to pack a cooler for camping, road trips, beach trips or any other adventures.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Difficulty easy

Estimated Cost $10

Materials

• Good quality cooler
• Ice packs
• Frozen water bottles
• Ice

Tools

• Freezer

Instructions

1. The day before your trip, freeze any ice packs or water bottles you'll use in the cooler.
2. Also the day before your trip, bring your cooler inside, especially if you store it in a hot attic or garage. It will reach room temperature and keep the cold foods colder.
3. The day of your trip, lay solid ice blocks or frozen ice packs on the bottom of the cooler. This is your foundation.
4. Add frozen food you won't need for several days.
5. Drinks also go at the bottom so they don't crush other food.
6. Top the drinks and frozen food with a layer of loose ice, fitting ice into any gaps between foods.
7. Load already prepped food in rectangular storage containers.
8. Pack food vertically instead of horizontally. You'll see more without digging through the cooler.
9. Load more delicate foods, such as produce, at the top.
10. Cover everything with a layer of loose ice. Make sure the cooler is completely full, as this helps it stay colder for longer.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  Coleman Cooler | Xtreme Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 5 Days | Heavy-Duty 70-Quart Cooler for Camping, BBQs, Tailgating & Outdoor Activities
• 
  Below Zero 10x14 Cooler Pack (4 Pack)
• 
  Coleman Performance Cooler, 48-Quart - Blue

Did you try this? What did you think?

Were these instructions helpful? Be a gem and share this info with someone else who could use it!

The post 22 pro tips: How to pack a cooler for camping + road trips appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Yes, colds, coughs and other bugs happen—though preferably not on your family getaway. So it makes sense that you want to do everything in your power to keep your kids healthy on vacation.

Although you can’t spray down the entire plane with sanitizing spray or make your kids wear air-filtering gas masks, there’s plenty you can do to keep the bugs at bay.

So whether you’re traveling during cold and flu season or not, you’ll want to use each and every one of these tips to keep your whole family healthy while traveling. The result: healthier kids and more vacation fun!

What to do before a trip to keep your kids healthy on vacation

Get a flu shot

The one most important thing you can do to keep your kids healthy on vacation is to get the flu shot. A friend of mine once went on a week-long vacation with her entire family, only to find the entire crew had caught influenza. They were miserable in the hotel room for two days and then spent hundreds of dollars rescheduling their flights to come home early. And my mother-in-law caught influenza while we were visiting them one year; she ended up in the hospital for a week.

It’s a good thing that research repeatedly shows that flu shots are effective in preventing the flu, and if you do get the flu, the shot can reduce its severity and length.

So if you and your kids haven’t gotten your flu shots yet, make that a priority.

Get a good night’s sleep

My poor husband has so much nervous energy the night before we travel. He stays up until 1, 2 or 3am, puttering around the house, watching Netflix shows and generally being a ball of nervous energy. My first tip to keep your kids healthy on vacation: Don’t let your kids be like my husband.

Instead, keep the nighttime routine exactly the same as you would any other night. Bedtime routines act as triggers for that sleepy feeling to come over your kids, even if they’re trying to resist it. So stay the course, even if you’re busy prepping for the next day’s travels.

Having a well rested kid makes traveling more pleasant—and a well rested kid is less likely to get sick.

Prep healthy snacks the day before

When you don’t plan for snacks, you’ll probably end up reaching for what’s convenient. And what’s convenient usually comes in a crinkly package with tons of added salt and sugar.

Unfortunately, that’s not the kind of nutrition your kids need to keep their immune systems humming. So to ensure your whole family has immunity-boosting fuel, pack healthy snacks the day before you leave for your trip.

Healthy snacks for kids while traveling

• grapes
• cut fruit
• clementines
• crudites and little containers of dip
• a container with cut cheese, tofu dogs and deli turkey
• lunchmeat-and-cheese roll-ups
• string cheese
• squeezie pouches
• peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
• fruit leather
• healthy granola bars
• baby tomatoes
• crackers, cheese, meat for a make-your-own Lunchable

Prepare all these healthy snacks and put them in a gallon ziplock bag in the fridge. Then right before you leave on your trip, grab the whole shebang.

I know we’ll all end up eating junk food, too—who can say no to those tiny bags of pretzels on the plane? not me—but I get peace of mind knowing we’ll all have some decent nutrition, too.

How to stay healthy with kids on a plane

Beware TSA security

The germiest place at the airport isn’t the bathroom, and it can’t be avoided: It’s the TSA security check.

Research has found that those plastic bins where you put your laptop and keys (and your child’s lovey!!!) harbor the most germs that can make you sick.

You can’t avoid going through security (unfortunately), so the first thing you should do after getting your shoes on after the checkpoint is take the whole family to the bathroom for hand-washing. I know many security checkpoints have hand sanitizer, but TBH that doesn’t feel like enough to me. I only feel comfortable after everyone has scrubbed with soap and water.

Use a sanitizing wipe on anything else that was in the tray, like the kids’ tablets.

Wipe down EVERYTHING on the plane

I’m not typically a super-germophobe, but my internal hypochondriac comes out on planes. So to keep my kids healthy on the plane, I don’t let them touch anything at our seats until I’ve given everything a good wipe-down.

Instead of bringing a big package of sanitizing wipes in your carry-on, put a handful of them in a small zippered baggie. (I use lavender-scented wipes, and my seatmates have even stopped to ask me what I did to make the plane smell so good!)

Then wipe everything—arm rests, seat belt buckles, chair seats, reclining buttons. Focus especially on tray tables, which research shows to be the germiest place on a plane (with nearly 10x the germs as the toilet flusher!).

Encourage naps on the flight

If your kids still nap, or if you all had to get up extra-early to catch your flight, do what you can to encourage your kids to nap. Resting helps your body’s defenses spend more energy on defending itself from viruses and bacteria so you’re more likely to stay healthy on vacation.

Now I know that it’s really hard to make a kid nap, but do what’s in your control. When Max and Edie were babies and toddlers, I’d strap them into the carrier, stand in the plane aisle and bounce them to get them to sleep.

Now that my kids are older, I limit screen time (a bit) on the plane if they need a nap. Neither of them will nod off when they could be watching Elsa or Moana instead, so I make them turn off electronics when they need a break for some shut-eye.

One time when we were flying to Mexico, Edie insisted she wasn’t tired the entire time so I made the mistake of letting her watch more movies. Then when she had to turn off her tablet when the plane was landing, she zonked out about 15 seconds later. Clearly, she had needed the rest earlier but hadn’t wanted to stop binge-watching Disney movies!

I won’t make that mistake again. I know my kids need plenty of rest to stay healthy while traveling.

Drink only water en route

I know some people get excited at the options of the in-flight beverage cart, but I have a rule: Only water when we’re traveling.

Flying on a plane is dehydrating, in part because they keep the air with very low humidity to decrease the risk of rusting the plane. That’s good news for the longevity of the aircraft—and bad news for your body, which loses more than usual moisture in the dry air. (That’s why you feel so thirsty after a flight and why your skin and nostrils feel so dry!)

To combat the dehydrating effect of air travel, we drink lots and lots of water. Staying hydrated helps your body stay efficient so it can be vigilant against germs. What’s more, water makes lymph, the fluid that flushes toxins and other baddies from your body.

So when we travel, we bring water bottles and skip the juice, soda and chocolate milk.

Level 10 travel tip: When your kids get antsy on the flight, get up with them and walk to the back of the plane. They can ask the flight attendant for a glass of water. This gets their body moving (so they’re less stiff), burns a little energy (so they’re less bonkers) and keeps them hydrated. Plus, they think it’s *so cool* to talk to the flight attendants!

Stay healthy when you arrive at your vacation destination

Wash hands—and then wash ’em again!

Sometimes when I ask my kids to wash their hands, they furrow their brow in my direction. “But Mom, we already washed our hands!” My response: “Yeah, like an hour ago, and it’s time to wash ’em again!”

Washing hands frequently is the absolute best way to stay healthy on vacation (or anytime). Good ol’ soap and water doesn’t kill germs but actually removes them from your skin. In fact, 15 seconds of washing with soap removes 90% of the bacteria from your hands. Doubling that time (to about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice) removes nearly 100% of germs.

Also encourage kids to properly dry their hands after washing. Wet hands are more likely to pick up and transmit germs. And when they’re done with the paper towel, make sure they use it to open the bathroom door.

With good hand washing habits—especially before eating food, after using the bathroom and after spending time in germy places (like the grocery store or the playground)—you’re much more likely to keep kids healthy on vacation!

Get outside as much as possible

Even if the weather isn’t ideal when you arrive at your destination, get outside as much as possible. That’s because it’s harder to catch a bug when you’re out in the fresh air.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go to the children’s museum, but work in outdoor activities, too. Head to the zoo, take a hike or simply go to a playground. The fresh air will do you all good.

Move your body

Most kids don’t need a lot of encouragement to run around and play, but traveling can disrupt their usual routine of soccer practice and zipping around the monkey bars. So to keep the whole family healthy on vacation, make sure to build in opportunities for exercise.

Exercise might help increase your immune system in several ways. Researchers suspect that breathing hard—like after running away from the waves at the beach—might actually expel germs from the lungs, keeping you cold-free.

Getting your blood moving also reduces the stress hormone cortisol (that your whole crew might have build up after, say, rushing to the terminal where your plane was about to take off). Since consistently higher levels of cortisol is linked to greater susceptibility to illness, it pays to exercise!

Finally, research shows that exercise changes the activity of white blood cells, the body’s illness-fighting powerhouses. In those who exercise, white blood cells circulate throughout the body more quickly—perhaps finding those germs before they can wreak too much havoc.

So no matter what you do on your next family vacation, make sure there’s plenty of time for you and your kids to move your body.

Stick to a sleep routine

You already know how important sleep is to staying healthy on vacation. So once you arrive, help your kids get enough sleep by staying as close as possible to their sleep schedule.

They might want to stay up extra-late, and time changes might make them wake up earlier than usual. But staying with a nighttime routine, avoiding sugar after dinner, and doing relaxing activities (like a bath, massage or reading stories) in the evening will help your kids get enough rest—and stay healthy on vacation.

If you want more ways to keep your kids on a sleep routine, you’ll want to read these pediatric sleep expert-approved tips to help kids sleep on vacation!

Eat lots of fiber

Typical vacation foods—think french fries and sweets—don’t have a ton of nutrition. They don’t have much fiber, either. That’s why we focus on eating high-fiber foods when we travel.

Your (and your kids’) digestive system can already be thrown out of whack when you travel. It’s not uncommon for your digestion to slow down when you’re in a new environment. You can help counteract that, and feel much better, by eating fiber-rich foods.

That’s why I work high-fiber fruits and vegetables into every one of my kids’ meals on vacation. So if they order a hamburger, I ask for extra tomato slices.

And in the mornings, oatmeal at a continental breakfast can add a good dose of fiber to the meal.

Your kids will feel much healthier, and have more fun, if they’re not stopped up!

Limit sugar—seriously

I really enjoy the occasional “special treat,” which is what we call sweets in my family. And vacations are a special occasion for us, so we typically go out to ice cream or have some other sweet treat.

That said, we do not use a family vacation as a reason for an all-out sugar binge. It’s a good thing, too, since eating refined sugar can impair the cells your immune system sends to attack invaders. (The effect lasts up to 5 hours after eating or drinking lots of sugar.)

So go ahead and enjoy sweet treats—in moderation. Just don’t go overboard on the sugar!

Practice gratitude to boost your immune system

You already get your kids to say please and thank you—that’s just good manners! But did you also know that gratitude can boost your immune system?

Research finds that people who regularly practice gratitude and an optimistic outlook have less chronic inflammation, which is a sign of poorer immune system functioning and puts you more at risk for catching an illness.

What’s more, other studies show that people who regularly practice gratitude have more illness-fighting cells in their body, so it’s likely they’re more able to fend off the cold and flu.

Want your kids to be more grateful? First of all, practice it in a way your kids can learn from your example. I often say out loud how grateful I am for something, especially when we’re on vacation. “I’m so thankful for the farmer who picked the vegetables in my salad,” I’ll say, or “I’m so grateful I get to go to the art museum with you kiddos today!” Max and Edie nearly always follow suit, saying something they’re grateful for, too.

You can also make gratitude a part of your dinner routine. You can give thanks at the start of the meal. Or simply go around the table and say something you’re thankful for.

You might want to keep a pen and notebook handy—kids’ reasons to be thankful are sometimes hilarious!

Finally, read books about gratitude. We love The Thank You Dish and The Thank You Letter.

Keeping your kids healthy in cold and flu season—and anytime

No matter where you’re traveling, or when, I know you want to keep your kids healthy on vacation. After all, it’s way more fun to explore your destination than to call housekeeping for yet another box of tissues because your little has a wicked runny nose.

The post How to keep your kids healthy on vacation: Travel without getting sick! appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Because even though traveling with dogs brings a lot of joy, it can also add a bit of hassle to your vacation plans. This post covers finding pet friendly lodging, keeping dogs safe en route, dog car travel and easing dog anxiety.

We’ve traveled with Finn all over the country and have some wonderful stories to share (like meeting another dog who could have been his double on a California beach) as well as some doozies (like when he got sprayed by a skunk the day before we took a road trip from Oregon to Michigan).

Whether you’re heading near or far with your pup, I’m happy to share these tips for traveling with dogs. They’ll help you and your four-legged friend enjoy your vacation together!

This post contains affiliate links. By clicking and buying something, I earn a small income—at no extra charge to you. Thanks for helping me continue to bring you travel tips for free!

How to travel with dogs

Regardless of the kind of travel you’re doing, these tips will help if you’re traveling with dogs.

Exercise before your trip

When we plan traveling with our dog, we make sure the day before is filled with exercise. Typically, Hubs takes Finn out disc golfing, or we’ll all go on a hike as a family.

(This tip is equally helpful for our kids!)

No matter what kind of exercise your dog prefers, build it into your routine the day before you travel. He’ll be nice and tired out for the next day when he’s stuck in the car or on the plane.

Keep your dog hydrated on the go

Always keep a water bowl handy when you travel. That way, you can offer water to your pup at every opportunity.

When you and your dog are out exploring—walking around a new city or going on a hike, for example—bring a collapsible water bowl. We use a collapsible dog bowl similar to this BPA-free one:

I find it really convenient that they have carabiners, which makes it easy to attach the bowl to my backpack. That way, I don’t have to put it back inside my bag when it’s still wet.

We keep a collapsible dog bowl in the car at all times. That way we never have to remember to bring it when we’re traveling with our dog.

Get outdoors with your dog

The outdoors are inherently dog-friendly—and that’s why we always incorporate outside activity when traveling with dogs.

Even when we travel to a city with Finn, we look for hikes, urban parks and other opportunities for him to explore outside. I swear he likes it as much as we do. Though instead of checking out the architecture or looking for street art, he’s all about sniffing all the new smells!

So when you plan a trip with your dog, search for nearby hikes and dog parks. You and your pup will appreciate the time outdoors!

Find a pup-up (a dog-friendly pop-up experience)

After you decide where you’re going, do a bit of googling to see if there are any dog-specific events or pop-ups.

Not too long ago, for example, my friend produced a hugely popular pup-up in New York. At Dogville, “the waggiest place on earth,” dogs and their owners explored a whole building of adorable and Instagrammable sets, tried human and dog treats, and met a bunch of other dog-lovers. There were also dogs available for adoption.

We weren’t in New York for this dog pop-up event, but we’ll definitely be looking for other pet-focused pop-ups on upcoming trips.

Wear out your dog when you arrive

If you’ve been traveling for a few hours or more, plan for a lot of dog-friendly activity when you arrive. You could head out for a hike, walk around the neighborhood where you’re staying or find a nearby dog park.

Whether you went on a plane with your dog or took a road trip, she has probably been less active than she typically is at home. What’s more, she might have a lot of nervous energy from being cooped up. Let your dog release all that energy by getting lots and lots of exercise.

Look up a nearby vet

Chances are, your dog will fare just fine on vacation. But you should know of a nearby vet and emergency clinic for pets just in case.

Do your research even before you leave home. Then take a photo of the vet’s address, phone number and contact information. That way you’ll always have it with you, since you take your phone everywhere.

Find a dog-friendly restaurant

I love searching for pet-friendly restaurants when we’re traveling with dogs. We don’t always find one that’s near where we’re hanging out for the day, but sometimes we hit a jackpot!

That’s what we found when we all ate at Norm’s, a dog-friendly restaurant in Seattle‘s Fremont neighborhood. Max and Edie were thrilled that Finn got to come inside the pub, and Finn got to “order” off the dog menu. (Ok, I ordered for him—and Norm’s even options he could eat in spite of his many allergies!)

Level 10 travel tip: If restaurants nearby don’t allow dogs, take your food to go and eat in a park. Your dog is definitely allowed there!

Staying in pet-friendly lodging

When I talk to friends and readers about traveling with dogs, often their biggest concern is finding pet-friendly lodging. It can be hard enough to find a decent hotel or home rental within your budget; adding the extra requirement that it be pet-friendly makes it even tougher.

That’s why I’m sharing these tips about traveling with your dog and staying in pet-friendly accommodations.

How to find pet-friendly lodging

Whenever we travel with our dog, I make sure to use the right filters to find a hotel or home rental that allows pets. Here’s how to find it on AirBnB:

Click on “more filters” and scroll down to House Rules. Click “pets allowed” and continue your search. (If you want $40 off your first booking on AirBnB—and really, who doesn’t?!—use my referral link!)

On Hotels.com, this is where you find the pet-friendly lodging filter:

We have had great luck finding pet-friendly lodging. I even wrote about our favorite dog-friendly hotel in Bend, Oregon, where they not only allow pets but also give a doggy welcome basket to each furry friend!

Some hotels and other lodging have requirements (e.g. that the dog weighs less than 50 pounds) or extra fees (like a $25 per pet add-on).

Level 10 travel tip: When you book a hotel with your dog, ask to stay on the ground floor. That makes it much easier to simply step out the door to walk your pup!

Keeping your pet-friendly lodging clean

When we travel with our dog, we always keep a towel by the door. That way we can wipe off Finn’s paws before he comes into the room. No hotel or home rental needs dirty paw prints all over the place!

Also, if your dog gets on the furniture, cover it with a sheet. That way, your dog won’t leave behind hair on the sofa.

Finally, put a towel under your dog’s food and water bowls. If they’re anything like Finn, they make a bit of a mess when they eat. I’d hate to leave bits of food for someone else to clean up!

Keeping pet-friendly lodging clean is not only the courteous thing to do; it can also help you avoid additional cleaning fees.

Dog-proof the room

Just as you would childproof a hotel room or home rental, go around your lodging and make sure it’s safe for your dog. Hide away cords especially if your dog’s a chewer. And look under the beds and furniture to make sure nothing unsafe has been overlooked.

Finn is notorious for eating Kleenex—we theorize he used to eat tissue and paper to fill up his belly when he was a stray, *sob*—so we always double-check there are no tissues lying around. And we keep the bathroom door shut so he doesn’t go in and feast on tissue.

Dogs and car travel

Are you heading on a road trip with your dog? These tips will help you drive from A to B with your dog in the car—safely.

The safest way to travel with a dog in the car

Veterinarians typically recommend you use a dog harness for car travel to keep your pups safe. If you do, make sure that you choose a system that attaches to a harness, not a collar, so your dog isn’t choked if there’s an accident.

I like that this dog harness for car travel easily clicks in to a seatbelt, and the harness is wide and comfy for a dog. The wide and lightly padded chest portion also distributes the resistance over a larger area, so the harness doesn’t cut into your dog’s chest.

To be completely honest, we don’t travel with Finn in a crate or on a harness. We do, however, make him a cozy bed in the back, where he snuggles down and naps while we’re on the road.

Take breaks often

Hubs laughs at me because my bladder is smaller than Edie’s and Max’s, so we have to stop often when we’re on a road trip—for me more than the kids! All those rest stops might not be good for getting to our destination faster, but they’re great for Finn.

Whenever we stop, we let Finn out of the car. That way, he has a chance to move, pee and drink some water. The last thing you want is for your pup to be uncomfortable during dog car travel!

Don’t feed your dog before a road trip

If your dog gets car sick, do not feed him before you start a road trip. Traveling on an empty stomach helps dogs feel better if they’re prone to road sickness.

Thankfully, Finn doesn’t get car sick. So we keep him on his regular meal schedule when we travel. If we leave after lunch, we’ll feed him before that, and it hasn’t been a problem.

Tips to ease dog anxiety when traveling with dogs

Dogs can become anxious when they’re somewhere new and don’t know what to expect. That’s why it’s a good idea to use these ways to help dog anxiety when you’re traveling with dogs.

Keep the same schedule

If you typically feed your dog at 8am and 5pm when you’re at home, do the same when you’re on vacation, too. Ditto going for walks and anything else you do at the same time time while you’re traveling.

Sticking to a routine helps your dog feel more comfortable. When he knows what to expect, he doesn’t feel as anxious. This definitely helps Finn when we travel together.

Bring something from home

When Finn goes on vacation with us, we bring his dog bed from home. It’s familiar and comforting to him, and he sleeps on it whether we’re in a hotel or at an AirBnB.

So if your dog has a special blanket, chew toy or bed, bring it along (as long as you have room). The scent and familiarity will help your dog feel at home on vacation.

Bring a brand-new toy

A new toy can help distract your dog from feeling anxious in a new place. Especially if your pup is really into toys, he’ll be too busy playing to realize he is nervous!

I especially love introducing puzzle toys, like a puzzle feeder. You can put treats or kibble inside it, and your dog has to work to get the snacks out! These kinds of toys are even better for super-smart and working dogs, who thrive when they have something to occupy their minds.

Back before we had to switch Finn to a specialized raw diet, we used a puzzle feeder like this one. It kept Finn occupied forever!

Bring your dog along

Dogs tend to get most anxious when they’re left behind, especially if they’re in a new place. So whenever you can, bring your dog with you!

You’ll be surprised at how many dog-friendly activities you can work into your vacation itinerary.

Just make sure to never leave your dog inside a car. A parked car can heat up 20 degrees in just 10 minutes—hot enough to injure or even kill your dog.

All the tips to make traveling with dogs easier

I’m pretty sure that by now, you’re feeling inspired to get out and explore with your pup. And with all these tips for traveling with dogs, you have the know-how to make the vacation easier and more fun for everyone—including those with four legs.

You’ve learned how to make dog car travel safer and more comfortable. You now know how to find pet-friendly lodging—and avoid extra cleaning fees. Your dog’s anxiety will be helped by tips to keep him happy even when he’s away from home.

In short, you and your dog are ready to explore the world!

Do you have ideas and tips for how to travel with dogs? Please share them in the comments, below. And if you travel with your dog, let me know how it goes!

The post Traveling with dogs: 17 tips for dog car travel, pet-friendly lodging + more appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

These family travel bloggers have gone before you—and so very thoughtfully made more than a few Disney mistakes. Here, they’ve graciously shared those stumbles so you don’t have to follow in their footsteps!

I learned quite a few Disney tips and hacks, too. So whether you have a Disneyland vacation coming up or you’re simply dreaming of a getaway to Disney World, you’ll definitely want to learn from these expert family travel bloggers. Read on for common Disney mistakes that cost you money, cost you time, cost you fun—or end up in meltdowns! Then read their best Disney tips to make the most of your family vacation.

This post contains affiliate links, which have no extra cost to you. These links earn me a small income that allows me to continue to bring you free family travel advice.

If you want even more Disney goodness—and I’m 99% sure you do—then download these Disney quote printables, all for free! When you sign up, you’ll get five designed Disney quotes that’ll inspire your next trip.

Expensive Disney mistakes

Uh-oh, these Disney mistakes can cost you a lot of money! Make sure you don’t make these mistakes so you have plenty of money for your next family vacation… or at least enough to get an extra Dole Whip.

Not budgeting for your full vacation

MISTAKE: Not budgeting
DISNEY DO IT: Researching and planning your Disney costs—even the sneaky ones

Family holidays are rarely cheap these days, but a trip to Disney can be in a different league when it comes to cost. People are often attracted by a cheap flight cost, or a special deal for accommodation or park tickets, and then the Disney vacation is suddenly happening without much thought to the total cost of the vacation.  

We would highly recommend creating a budget for your Disney vacation so that you have a clear idea of what the trip might cost you and allow you to plan and save for this dream vacation. 

Some of the elements to think about for you Disney vacation include:

• the costs of getting to Disney, including flight costs and all the added extras
• accommodation costs including any resort fees
• park tickets
• in-park experiences
• non-Disney activities
• food and drink costs
• visa or travel insurance costs
• how you’ll get around whilst you’re on your trip

When you think of, and budget for, how much the entire Disney vacation will cost, you’ll be much more prepared. And when there are fewer (expensive) surprised on your family trip, you and your kids will be able to fully enjoy your Disney vacation.

Ellie writes at Family Travel Pro, a site that shares insider travel professionals’ advice for tips to travel better with your kids.

(If you’re looking for places to trim your budget, take a peek at exactly how I saved more than $2,000 on a Disneyland vacation. And don’t forget to compare prices of hotels near Disneyland—take a peek at the map and booking tool below.)

Paying full price for souvenirs

MISTAKE: Paying out the nose for Disney souvenirs
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Buy your Disney souvenirs outside the park and bring them in

I nearly had a heart attack when I saw the price tags at the gift shop on our first trip to Disneyland. I was so glad I didn’t make the expensive mistake of paying full price for souvenirs!

If you want to save money on Disney souvenirs, plan ahead! You can buy nearly identical mouse ears, bubble wands, plush toys and more outside the park for a fraction of the cost.

We don’t get our kids a ton of souvenirs—we tend to travel on a tight budget—but I did want to get Maxine and Edie a few special mementos from our first trip to Disneyland. So beforehand, I bought them each a stuffed Minnie.

Then when we were getting ready to walk to the park, I exclaimed, “What is that green sparkly light in the sky?! It just zipped by—was it a dragonfly?”

The girls went to investigate. While they were gone, I placed these Minnie dolls in their stroller seats. My kids rushed back and told me I’d probably seen Tinkerbell! Then they noticed the toys—and nearly lost their little minds. They guessed that Tinkerbell had left them presents!

Maxine and Edie still talk about my Tinkerbell sighting and the Disney souvenirs she left behind.

See, you can get Disney magic—while staying on a budget!

-me!

Time-wasters at Disney

You planned. You budgeted. You endured your child melting down at the airport on the way. You deserve to enjoy your family vacation at Disney!

Unfortunately, many people make the common Disney mistakes that eat up that precious time.

Here are Disney mistakes that waste time—and what to do instead.

Wasting time waiting for food

MISTAKE: Eating at restaurants and waiting in line at fast-service spots
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Use mobile food ordering on the My Disney Experience App

We were Disney World first-timers back in April, and our preference was for more Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, visits with Belle and Jasmine, Jedi Training, and the Frozen Sing-along and less time for Pecos Bill Nachos, Dole Whips and Backlot Express burgers. Unfortunately, though, we wasted a ton of time waiting in line to grab some grub.

The best way we could have saved those precious minutes was by doing a mobile food order in advance at a quick service restaurant—the ones where there are no servers and are just ‘order at counter’ places to eat.  

Simply pull up your My Disney Experience app to locate “Mobile Food Orders.” Search for the restaurants and add your order, including custom requests like dressing on the side. Hit “Purchase” and your order will be loaded. When you are in the vicinity of the restaurant, hit “prepare my order” and the kitchen will start making your food.

Pick up is quick and easy (most restaurants have a specific area for online order pick ups) and you can avoid some really long lines, particularly during peak eating hours. However, what I did not realize is that you cannot use your gift cards for online orders (which is another reason it did not work for us—we were paying for everything with gift cards). All orders are either attached to your main Disney account or you can pay with a credit card.

Avoiding restaurants and standing in line for food means more time for Mickey, Mulan and memories!

Lori Green LeRoy writes about family travel at Maps, Memories & Motherhood.

Wasting time waiting for the It Rides

MISTAKE: Spending all your time trying to get on the most crowded rides
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Focus on rides and attractions with low traffic to make the most of your time at Disney

The most common mistake that people visiting Disney theme parks make is chasing the fads of the most popular rides. These are the rides that are all the buzz—everyone wants to get on at the same time. Some of such rides, like Radiator Springs Races in Disneyland, consistently have wait time of over sixty minutes.

On a typical afternoon, some of these attractions have lines just to get the FastPass. For some rides, FastPasses are completely gone by midday. If you’ve stood in line to get a FastPass, you might have wasted an hour of precious time for a ride that only lasts 5 minutes or so.

To avoid this Disney mistake, visitors should draw their attention to less popular (but no less fun) rides, attractions and activities that are never busy. For instance, Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in Disney California Adventure Park or the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh ride in Disneyland are wonderful attractions—without the wait.

There are nearly a dozen of such rides and activities in Disneyland and California Adventure parks combined, ranging from educational encounters with President Lincoln on Main Street USA to the exciting exploration of Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island to a self-guided tour of Boudin Bakery (bread tasting included free of charge!).

If you’re worried about hitting the It Rides, you might want to focus instead on doing more with your limited time. Don’t stress out and enjoy your visit!

Tatiana Sorokina blogs about family travel at Family Road Trip Guru.

Wasting time to meet Disney characters

MISTAKE: Not using FastPass on Disney characters meet and greets
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Use those FastPasses to make your kids’ dreams come true

On her very first trip to Disney World last summer, all my 4 year old daughter was interested in was meeting Disney princesses. I am so thankful that someone told me to use some of our Fast Passes on the character meet and greets to ensure that we met her favorites.

If you’ve got small kids in tow and they are set on meeting their favorite Disney characters, book those character meet and greets ahead of time to avoid major disappointment! The best thing we did was book one for the first thing in the morning. Then, we rope-dropped the park and headed straight to the meet and greet.

If there was a short line, we didn’t use the Fast Pass reservation and just got into the regular line. We then changed the Fast Pass reservation for something else so we didn’t lose it.

Don’t underestimate how long the lines can be for Disney meet and greets, even for the less popular characters.

Shannon Elizabeth shares inspiration and real-world advice for parents traveling with their kids at Grab My Passport.

Disney mistakes that disappoint

Your kids are so freaking excited for your Disney vacation!!! (Heck, you are, too!) Unfortunately, some Disney mistakes can put a damper on that enthusiasm.

Here are common mistakes that dull that Disney magic—and how to make the most of your trip to Disney.

Trying to do too much in 1 day

MISTAKE: Cramming all of Disney into a single day
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Take your time to explore a Disney park without the rush

Sometimes it’s a cost thing or a time thing, but lots of parents ask me if one day is enough for a Disney World or Disneyland. And the answer is that, sure, you can do it. But you aren’t really going to get the most out of your time or your very expensive entrance fee. At best it will be rushed and underwhelming. At worst it will be stressful for you and a meltdown in the making for your kids.

Getting to the park early always makes sense. Lines do get longer as the day goes on. And the after-dark parades and shows have special effects that are really incredible; you want to catch them. That’s a long day. If you try to power through, by the time the fireworks are exploding over the castle, your kids will be too cranky to care, or sound asleep in your stroller. There’s nothing magical about that.

A second or third day also allows you to take a midday break, be it with a leisurely lunch or a return to your hotel for pool time and a nap. Extra time also allows for do-overs when things go wrong and patience when the line for that must-meet princess is long. It also gives you room to ride Peter Pan’s Flight three times over because your kids love it or pause to watch that parade you didn’t know would happen that your kids are enthralled by.

Finally, we loved having time to just walk around the parks and absorb all the great little details and hidden fun that make Disney parks unique. The animatronic Tiki Hut is a tucked away, low-key attraction that we never would have taken the time to see if we were rushing through a one-day visit. But we absolutely loved it. And it’s the little moments like this that provide the best memories.  

Eileen Gunn shares family travel tips at FamiliesGo! Check out her post on advice for families going to Disney World for the first time.

Letting hunger ruin your trip

MISTAKE: Not bringing enough snacks into the Disney park
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Stock up on balanced munchies to hold you and your kids over between meals.

One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made on our Disney vacations is not bringing enough snacks for our family into the parks. Without fail, we’d be in a long ride line when one of us would start to get cranky. That person would then get the rest of us cranky. And all this usually stemmed from someone being hungry.

I suggest people pack easy to eat snacks so they can stay fueled up in between meals. One of our favorite snacks are the Mickey-shaped goldfish crackers you can find at Target! We also like to bring snacks with protein, like shelled pistachios or beef jerky.

On our last trip to Disneyland, we actually had groceries delivered to our hotel, which was awesome! That meant we could bring in grapes, baby carrots, little bottles of fruit smoothies, and yogurt drinks. We stored these in a little cooler bag that we kept in our backpack and things stayed fresh all morning.

By bringing snacks into the Parks, it’s a great way to keep your family happy and stick to a budget. Plus, by saving money at Walt Disney World or Disneyland, you can splurge on your favorite Disney treats like churros, Dole Whip, or Mickey bars!

Marcie Cheung writes an all Disney, all the time family travel blog at Marcie and the Mouse.

Being surprised—in a bad way—by rides

MISTAKE: Not researching rides ahead of time
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Look up height requirements, scariness level and other ride factors before you go

Save yourself and your kids from disappointment and stress with a little research ahead of time! Every park has different ride and show options but not every attraction is an option for every kid due to their height and/or sensitivity level. Measure your children’s height before you travel to Disney and make notes on which rides they aren’t tall enough to ride. (You can also filter rides on the Disney app by height requirement.) Don’t waste a fast pass on a ride only to find out later that your entire family can’t participate or it leaves one of your kids in tears.

Once you know which rides are an option in terms of your kids’ height, take the time to watch videos of them on YouTube. This extra step before you go to Disney allows you to screen for intensity and scary parts. Even innocent-sounding rides, like the Snow White’s Scary Adventures, can be terrifying for little ones!

Sometimes the actual ride might not be scary but the introduction or theming might create an issue for a sensitive kid. Screening rides before you go to Disney will let you both prepare for anything unexpected. If you know what you need to avoid ahead of time, you can ask for work-arounds. For example, the introduction to the Haunted Mansion often spooks kids more than the actual ride but cast members can help you bypass that part of the attraction. That way, you and your sensitive kiddos can skip straight to the ride! This keeps the trip fun—not terrifying—for everyone.

Stephanie Woodson blogs at Explore More, Clean Less, where she shares her Disney World 5-day itinerary.

Forgetting to rest

MISTAKE: Not planning for a down day
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Include a day for playing at the beach, splashing in the pool and just hanging out

Our family loves Disney, but we only get to go once every few years. So when we go, we go hard: all day, every day. But on our last trip to Disneyland, by day two, everything hurt. We were only four days so we were relentless and pushed on. Our kids begged to use the hotel pool, but we were there for Mickey! 

By day three, my feet were beyond painful, and I took Advil around the clock. By day four, it was all a daze. We left for home, never dipping our toes into the hotel pool. 

It honestly didn’t occur to us to take a rest day. That trip, while still magical, would have been so much more thoroughly enjoyed if we’d planned time to rest.

For our next trip to Disneyland, we’ll plan a day in the middle without any walking, with no dinner reservations or “must do” bucket list activities. A day to relax poolside while the kids enjoy freedom to play, and our only decisions are what to order for dinner or whether to take a nap. (Maybe a massage or even a pedicure for me—hey, a mom can dream!) After all, the next day, Disney awaits!

Heather Hicks writes about outdoor Oregon adventure at Oregon Outdoor Family.

Saving money by scrimping on magic

MISTAKE: Reserving lodging outside the park
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Stay on-property at one of the Disney hotels

One of the biggest mistakes I have seen my friends make when planning a Disney vacation is staying off-property. Walt Disney World Resort is more than just a destination. It is an entire experience, and staying at the resorts on property is just as much a part of the experience as the theme parks. 

The legendary Disney magic begins prior to arriving to the Disney resorts if you take advantage of their Magical Express transportation. Your luggage is taken care of once you check-in at your home airport and you are taken to the resort property, only seeing your luggage again once you get into your room! 

But even if you get to the Disney hotel on your own, you will feel the pixie dust from the first minute you check-in. The resort cast members sprinkle Disney magic with every interaction, just as they do in the theme parks. 

Each hotel has its own theme, which sets the stage of transporting you to another land.  The hotels are full of activities to keep the kids busy, from the pools to game rooms, restaurants, characters, craft rooms, and special activities often corresponding to the resort’s theme. There is so much for the kids to do on off-park days, that you can easily stay at the hotel and still feel like you are at Disney.  

And, with nearly 30 different hotels and resorts at different price points, ranging from value to deluxe,  there is a Disney hotel for almost every budget. There is even Fort Wilderness where you can camp in a tent, RV, or a cabin! 

Guests staying on property are also eligible for Extra Magic Hours (meaning you can beat the crowds with early park entry or stay past closing on certain days) which is not offered to off-property guests. 

And, with free transportation to the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs, you can’t beat the convenience of staying at a Disney hotel.  Whether you travel by monorail, bus, boat, or minivan (think Uber in a Minnie Mouse outfit), staying at a Disney hotel should always be top of your list when planning a Disney vacation. Staying off property just cannot compete with the extra magic and convenience families get from staying on property.

Keri B. was a Disney cast member for two years and now blogs about family travel at Bon Voyage with Kids. Read her post on traveling with kids for the first time for excellent tips and advice!

Disney mistakes that take a toll on comfort

Punishing your poor feet

MISTAKE: Wearing the wrong footwear
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Choose comfortable shoes that stay comfy as you walk for miles

One thing people do not realize when they plan a Disney vacation is the amount of walking that will do. On average, people will walk anywhere from 10-14 miles in one day at Walt Disney World. There is a lot of ground to cover before you even enter a park.

To give you an idea of the size of the parks, the loop around World Showcase in Epcot is more than one mile! Add in all of the standing in lines for rides, attractions, and character meet and greets, and your poor feet and legs will be exhausted by the end of the day. 

Supportive shoes are one way to combat the stress and fatigue your body will face. Wear your favorite sneakers (make sure they have sufficient support!) or buy shoes specifically for your Disney trip. Brands like Teva, Tom’s, and Keen are perfect for a day at Disney. Give your new shoes time to break in by wearing them before the trip. Finally, pack band-aids and moleskin blister protectors in your park bag just in case you get a no-fun blister.

Lauren Stites blogs about family travel at Where The Wild Kids Wander.

Renting a stroller at Disney

MISTAKE: Using a Disney rental stroller
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: BYO stroller for everyone’s comfort

I’m surprised how often I hear people recommend renting a stroller at Disney. After just one experience renting a stroller at Magic Kingdom with a toddler, I will never do it again. We didn’t plan on renting a stroller in Disney, but one day we left our stroller at our rental home and decided to save ourselves from battling traffic and parking by renting one at the park.

Since we were visiting family and only had one day at Disney, we decided in advance to have our 18-month-old nap on-the-go. The nap and ride technique isn’t something we do often, but in his reclining stroller with a shade it’s not a problem.

The rental strollers at Disney, alternatively, are hard plastic with no shade and only a single belt versus a 5-point harness. As you can imagine, our little guy fought a nap on that hard stroller and almost slid out of it several times.  He woke up early into the nap and ended up falling asleep in my arms for the first time since he was a baby.

While the Disney strollers may work if you want a backup for an older toddler whose legs are tired, I definitely don’t recommend them for babies or younger toddlers. Lesson learned!

Amanda Emmerling writes about all things travel with a little one at Toddling Traveler.

Keeping your tots strapped in

MISTAKE: Keeping your toddler either strapped in the stroller or strapped in a ride
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Let your toddler roam and get those wiggles out

To avoid kid meltdowns, I’ve found it helps to calm their minds and remove them from all stimulation. There are a few good spots on the Disneyland property that are a little secluded and can help your child relax and unwind from the day. 

The first place is the Baby Care Center that has amenities like private nursing rooms with rocking chairs, a main room with TV and seating, and other things parents many need in a pinch. This is perfect to get away from it all and it’s very clean inside. 

The other spot, which is my all time favorite, is Pirate’s Liar on Tom Sawyer’s Island. It literally is away from it all and doesn’t have any rides, lines, vendors, stores, or anything that would be overstimulating. Your child can just walk around in the serene environment, much like a park, or sit down to watch the boats and canoes pass by. You can even escape from the heat under a shady tree or rock cave. The best part is the lack of people.

It’s the ultimate parent Disneyland hack to avoid meltdowns in your day!

Christy Mindell, who goes by Cree, writes the blog Wild and Cree, where she shares her photography and travel tips.

Not taking advantage of accommodations

MISTAKE: Not getting a Disability Access Service Card if you need one
DISNEY DO IT INSTEAD: Take advantage of disability accommodations at Disney parks

One thing that’s so magical about Disney parks: They are 100% set on making sure you have a magical time. To that end, they include accommodations for visitors who need special services.

Do you use a wheelchair? Do you have a child who is on the autism spectrum? Do you have some other disability that makes you squirm when thinking of standing in all those lines?

The Disney Disability Access Service Card allows visitors with a disability (including ones that aren’t visibly apparent) to get return time passes to rides, activities and park features. You just have to request the card at a Guest Services kiosk. You’ll fill out some paperwork and take a photo (so you can’t just give the card to someone else). It’s pretty straightforward.

If you or someone in your family has a disability, the disability pass at Disney could mean you have a much more wonderful trip to Disney. Why not use it?

If you have anxiety, or you’re feeling overwhelmed and nervous about your upcoming trip, I wrote a post all about how to overcome Disney anxiety—in planning your trip and while you’re there. I hope it’s helpful!

-me!

Plan a fun Disney vacation by avoiding these mistakes

I have a Post-It note taped at my desk: It reads

Failure is just information.

It totally inspires me to take a learner’s mindset so I don’t get too self-critical when I slip up.

Consider this post, then, full of the most useful information to help you plan a fun Disney vacation.

By learning from these family travel bloggers’ Disney mistakes, you get to avoid them! Chances are, you’ll make some different Disney mistakes. After all, we’re human.

Once you do, though, come back here and share them with us! And don’t wait until the last minute to book accommodation. Make sure you get the best price by reserving your hotel early!

Do you have any Disney mistakes that you’ve made—and learned from? Share them below in the comments!!!

PS – If Disney is on your mind, you’ll definitely want to read my post about the Disney PhotoPass. I break down the pros and the cons of using this feature—and share if the Disney PhotoPass is worth its cost.

The post 14 most common Disney mistakes (+ how to avoid them!) appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

That way you can print them out and put them up on the wall to remind you of your upcoming magical trip.

So if you’re sitting at your office or at the kitchen table and want a little more Disney in your day, simply read on for 35 inspiring Disney quotes. They’ll make you feel as if your trip is just around the corner.

And if you need a reminder to go, simply download the Disney quotes printable, and you can take a gorgeous quote with you!

The best Disney quotes to read before your vacation

For every flavor of Disney you want before you head to Disneyland or Disneyworld, I got you covered. Below, you’ll find Disney friendship quotes, inspirational Disney quotes and Walt Disney quotes from the Big Guy himself.

And I’m pretty sure you want these Disney quote printables—for free! I just gotta spread the magic.

Disney quotes about adventure

“Venture outside your comfort zone. The rewards are worth it.” -Rapunzel (Tangled)

“Every turn a surprise. Every moment gets better.” -Jasmine (Aladdin)

“Life’s not a spectator sport. If watchin’ is all you’re gonna do, then you’re gonna watch your life go by without ya.” – Laverne (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)

“If you don’t know where you want to go, then it doesn’t matter which path you take.” – The Cheshire Cat (Alice in Wonderland)

“You don’t have time to be timid. You must be bold and daring.” -Lumière (Beauty and the Beast)

Disney quotes about love and happiness

“Listen with your heart, you will understand.” – Grandmother Willow (Pocahontas)

 “Happiness is the richest thing we will ever own.” – Donald Duck

“Remember, you’re the one who can fill the world with sunshine.” – Snow White (Snow White and the Seven Dwarves)

“Do not be fooled by its commonplace appearance. Like so many things, it is not what is outside, but what is inside that counts.” – Merchant (Aladdin)

“Now, think of the happiest things. It’s the same as having wings.” – Peter Pan (Peter Pan)

Disney quotes about dreaming big

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney

“My dream wouldn’t be complete without you in it.” -Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

“Don’t just fly, soar.” – Dumbo (Dumbo)

“No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.” -Cinderella (Cinderella)

“My dream wouldn’t be complete without you in it.” -Naveen (Princess And The Frog)

Disney friendship quotes

“Any day spent with you is my favorite day. So, today is my new favorite day.” -Pooh (Winnie the Pooh)

“Every minute spent in your company becomes the new best moment of my life.” -Rhino (Bolt)

“When you’re the best of friends having so much fun together, you’re not even aware you’re such a funny pair.” -Big Mama (The Fox and the Hound)

“If everybody got somebody by the hand, maybe everyone could learn and understand.” -Sebastian (The Little Mermaid)

“Because when I look at you, I can feel it. And I look at you and I’m home.” -Dory (Finding Nemo)

Walt Disney quotes to inspire you

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” -Walt Disney

“When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable.” -Walt Disney

“Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, dreams are forever.” – Walt Disney

“First, think. Second, dream. Third, believe. And finally, dare.” – Walt Disney

“We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” – Walt Disney

“You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” – Walt Disney

“Open different doors, you may find a you there that you never knew was yours. Anything can happen.” – Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins)

“I never look back, darling! It distracts me from the now.” – Edna Mode (The Incredibles)

“I don’t want to survive. I want to live.” – The Captain (Wall-E)

“If you dream a thing more than once, it’s sure to come true.” – Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

“Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” – Alice (Alice in Wonderland)

“There’s a great big hunk of world down there with no fence around it.” – Tramp (Lady and the Tramp)

“For every to, there is a fro. For every stop there is a go, and that’s what makes the world go round.” –Merlin (The Sword and the Stone)

“Truly wonderful the mind of a child is.”  – Yoda (Star Wars: Episode II, Attack of the Clones)

“When you’re curious, you find lots of interesting things to do.” – Walt Disney

Disney quotes you’ll want to read again + again

Are you feeling all squishy inside?? I am—putting together this list of the best Disney quotes was so fun! (And nostalgic. Man, I love Disney movies.)

Some of my favorite are the Disney friendship quotes and the Disney quotes about dreaming big. Are you going to print any of these? Which one is your favorite? Do you have a go-to Disney movie you can’t get enough of?

Don’t forget to download your free Disney quote printables! That way, you can have a little taste of magic hanging on your wall.

Want even more Disney goodies? If you’re actually nervous about planning a family vacation to Disneyland or Disney World, you need to read my post about conquering your anxiety over Disney.

The post 35 Disney quotes to inspire you (+ free Disney printables!) appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

If you just use these family camping hacks (and perhaps adjust your expectations), you’ll fall back in love with all things camping.

Family camping fun is totally attainable, especially if you take a few of these hacks, tips, games and activities—all tested by me when camping with kids!

One last thing before I dive into all the great camping hacks! If you’re traveling to your campground, you’re going to love my book, Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids. Click the image below and snag yourself a copy of the e-book or paperback. The fun, customizable games and free printables will keep you entertained along every mile between home and the campsite—and beyond!

Family camping hacks to make you love camping again

I vividly remember my family’s first camping trip after having kids. My daughter had just turned 1, and we spent a long weekend in a rustic part of Oregon, near Cougar Reservoir off the McKenzie River. I hadn’t planned on it being a relaxing, rejuvenating vacation, but I was wholly unprepared for the amount of work it took to camp with kids.

At the end of the trip, I was exhausted, pissed off at my husband and never wanting to camp again.

Here’s the thing, though. Camping with kids can be an absolute delight, too.

So find those s’mores sticks, pack up the tent and get ready for family camping that is actually fun!

Camping hacks to make packing a breeze

1. Keep all your camping gear together

To make camping as easy as grab-and-go, put all your camping gear in a clear plastic bin. That way, you’ll never have to pack and repack all your gear, search for lanterns or ask yourself if you actually have camp soap. 

This is what we keep in our camping gear box:

• Plates, bowls, silverware, mugs and sharp knives
• Cutting board
• Camp soap (it’s biodegradable, so it won’t harm wildlife and rivers nearby) 
• Toilet paper
• Flashlights and lanterns (we use this flashlight because it will never break!)
• Collapsible camp chairs
• Mosquito repellant (we use this kid-safe bug spray)
• Mineral sunscreen (we use this SPF 50+ sunscreen that doesn’t damage ocean life, coral reefs or other sensitive wildlife)
• Fire starters
• Matches and a lighter
• Hatchet
• Plastic garbage bags
• Rope (we use this for many things, e.g. extending our dog’s leash and stringing up for a clothesline)
• Duct tape
• A hammock

2. Refill and replace your camping gear bin

As soon as you get home, replace anything you used up in your last family camping trip. That way, you’ll never have to second-guess if you have enough toilet paper for another family camping adventure!

3. Pack less

Ok, our minivan is always stuffed to the brim with a cooler, camping boxes, our big family tent, our clothes, the kids’ scooters and bikes, etc etc etc. But we pare down where we can. 

For example, we don’t bring a ton of changes of clothes. I average just one change per day. We’re not on a fashion show, and I don’t mind if the kids’ t-shirts are a little grimy.

Camping hacks for a cleaner campground

4. Pack wipes. Then pack more.

Wipes are pretty much the most important thing to bring on your family camping trip. When water, baths and washing machines are far, far away, a quick wipe does wonders.

5. Set up a hand washing station

You’ll also want a hand washing station when camping with kids. Set up a water jug with a spigot over a bucket or plastic bin (so the water that falls doesn’t make a muddy mess underneath). We usually set up ours at the edge of a picnic table.

Bar soap can get grubby real fast, since kids will likely drop it in the dirt the first time they go to wash hands. Avoid this camping mess by drilling a hole into regular bar soap when you’re at home. Then thread a piece of rope or string through the hole and attach it to the spigot. Voila, no more mess at your camping hand washing station!

6. Wipe your feet!

Keep a door mat in front of your family tent entrance. That way, kids will wipe off their feet before tracking pine needles into your sleeping space.

You and your kids should also take shoes off before getting into your family tent. That said, my kids mostly run around barefoot when we go camping, so a doormat helps keep dirt out.

7. Dry damp gear

Towels, swimming suits, clothes—it’s all bound to get wet. You want it to dry quickly without falling in the dirt and getting absolutely filthy. Here’s a camping hack to keep your gear dry and (relatively) clean:

Drape your wet towels and gear over your family tent poles. Using clothespins, clip the fabric to the poles. It may not look too classy, but you’ll have dry gear in no time.

8. Separate dirty clothes

Bring a big cloth bag (those big blue IKEA bags also work great) to wrangle dirty clothes. That way, your kids’ muddy pants won’t get mixed up in their clean clothes. 

Level 10 travel tip: When you get home, simply dump this whole bag into the washing machine. No sorting through packed bags necessary!

9. Embrace dirt!

Even if you keep your home spotless, you’ll need to let go of some of your ideas of cleanliness when you’re camping. Things are just dirtier out in the woods, and you’ll have a much better time camping with kids if you let some of the need to clean go.

Your kids might love it, too! My own girls embrace the #wildchild ethos of camping and get real dirty. I figure it’s fine, and we’ll go back to baths when we get home.

(We don’t bathe our kids when we camp. They get washed off-ish when we play in the river or lake, but that’s about it! So if you need permission to skip a few baths—you got it!)

Fun camping activities for families

10. This isn’t a rave, it’s camping!

Ok, so glow sticks might remind you of that brief period where you danced at raves in abandoned warehouses (no? just me?), but they are our #1 family camping activity to bring extra fun to the great outdoors. I pick up a pack of glow sticks (or bracelets, necklaces or even wands) from the Dollar Store or the dollar spot at Target. For mere pennies, you’ll create a night your kids will never forget.

You can have a dance party (pacifier necklaces optional!), play catch or hide and seek with the neon-glowing goodies. Just be careful to clean them up when you’re done.

Level 10 travel tip: Attach a glow stick to your dog’s leash. You’ll not only keep an eye on him in the dark; your kids will also think it’s hilarious.

11. A front-row seat to a nighttime show

I know bats and bugs—and other critters that come out at night—aren’t going to win any popularity contests. But your kids (and you!) can lose some of that eep-factor by letting them put on a nighttime show for you.

Simply stretch out a white sheet between some trees on your campsite, then aim a powerful lantern at the sheet. Bugs will be attracted to the light (remember that adage about moths and flames?), and bats will swoop in to feast. (You’re welcome for the bug buffet, little bats!)

This unusual and entertaining nighttime family camping activity is something you’d never do at home, which makes family camping fun—and totally unforgettable.

12. Let nature inspire arts and crafts

When we go camping with kids, I always pack a few arts and crafts supplies. I bring the bare minimum, though, so the kids can use nature in their projects, too.

By bringing just paper and glue, the girls are inspired to make nature collages. This is a particularly good activity for when the kids need quiet time—or Mom needs a few uninterrupted minutes to sip on a can of wine.

Looking for more outdoor crafts and activities? Check out my full post on more than 30 camping art projects.

13. Campsite tic-tac-toe

My kids love tic-tac-toe, and this nature-inspired version of the game is a total blast!

First, take four sticks and lay them out in the # sign. That’s your board. 

Then get your kids to each collect 5 of the same items—rocks, pine cones, flowers, whatever. These will be their X’s and O’s!

Set up on a side of your campsite or on a tree stump so their game doesn’t get interrupted, and let the fun camping games begin!

14. Map the campground

If you brought along paper—or even tore off a portion of a paper grocery bag—your kids can draw a map of the campground. Then they can play explorers!

Better yet, have them draw a map and hide treasure somewhere. Then they can challenge someone else to find the hidden treasure. X marks the spot!

15. Create a camping bucket

On one camping trip with my kids and their friends, I made camping buckets for all the littles. With a few bucks at the dollar store, I quickly created an individual camping activity kit for each child.

Simply buy some buckets and write each child’s name on his or her own bucket with puffy paint. Then fill the bucket with a handful of camping activity items they can use the whole trip. I filled our buckets with:

• a magnifying glass
• a notebook and pen
• chalk
• bubbles
• chip clips (these work great as “pinchers”—for some reason, little kids love picking up sticks, grass stems and more with these!)

Camping safety for kids and families

16. Personal first aid kits in an Altoids tin

Pack each child their own first aid kit, or what the internet calls a “boo boo kit.” In an Altoids tin or old medication bottle, pack a few band-aids of different sizes, a few wipes in a ziplock bag and other first aid gear.

This kid on YouTube has a genius tutorial on making your own boo boo kit, or mini first aid kit in an Altoids tin. 

Kids will love to carry their own first aid kit when you go hiking or on other adventures. It makes them feel so important!

You should also have a well stocked first aid kit on hand. We always have one in our go-bag in the back of the minivan. (If you haven’t made one of your own yet, I strongly recommend you keep one in each of your cars in case of a major emergency. We live in Portland, where the risk of an eventual major earthquake is high, so we have a survival go-bag similar to this one.)

17. Call a safety meeting

When you arrive at camp, call a safety meeting first thing. This is when you and your kids will go over all the safety details to keep everyone in tip-top shape during your family camping trip.

Some topics to cover:

• Fire safety: How to behave around the camp fire
• Off-limits areas: How far kids can roam on their own, and when they need an adult
• Water safety: If you’re camping near a river, lake or ocean, tell kids they cannot go anywhere near the water without an adult
• Poisonous plants: If poison oak, ivy or sumac grows where you are camping, show kids what it looks like so they can avoid it

18. No berries, no mushrooms

Make sure everyone understands this important camping rule: Never eat mushrooms or berries. Even delicious-looking fruit and fungi can be poisonous.

19. Avoid bugs

We regularly burn citronella candles to keep mosquitoes at bay in the morning and at dusk. If your kids are too busy running around to benefit from this natural insect repellant, have them DIY bug repellant bracelets:

Tie the ends of three strips of cloth in a knot. Then have them braid those strips together, creating a band. Soak the band in a mixture of naturally bug repellant essential oils (such as citronella) and then tie it to your child’s wrist.

You may also want to bring a wasp trap to keep yellow jackets and other stinging insects away from your kids.

20. Keep foods safe

When you’re outdoors, it’s super-important to pay attention to storing your food safely. You’ll want to pack lots of ice in your cooler to keep meat and other perishable food at a safe temperature so your crew doesn’t get food poisoning.

If you want more, check out my post and infographic on how to pack a cooler correctly.

When you prep your meals, keep food out on a picnic table the least amount of time possible. That leaves less time for bacteria to grow. And put any leftovers back in the cooler immediately.

Bring along small ice packs to keep food cold when you go on hikes or picnics. There’s nothing worse than catching a tummy bug from not keeping foods cold enough!

21. Keep wildlife away

If you camp in bear country, your camp site will probably have a bear box to secure your food. But no matter where you camp, it’s a good idea to keep all food—including coolers—inside your car, if you go drive-up camping.

Many many years ago, before we had kids, Hubs and I went camping with a bunch of friends. We left a bunch of food out overnight. (We may have consumed one or several alcoholic beverages…) In the middle of the night, we woke up to noises in the campsite. We peeked out our tent and shined a light on a SKUNK eating muffins on the picnic table!

You don’t want bear, skunks or any other critters nosing through your stuff. So keep everything secured, especially overnight, to avoid unwelcome wildlife!

Family camping meals made easier

22. Pre-prep as much food as possible

My motto when it comes to camping meals is the more I do at home, the better. I’m not into doing a bunch of chopping when bugs are everywhere, camp fire ash always seems to drift toward the picnic table, and I’d rather be playing with my kids.

So I do as much as I humanly can to prep camping meals before we ever leave home.

For example, I’ll make a big quinoa vegetable salad, chop veggies for tin foil dinners, and even pre-grill burgers. That way, when my kids and I are starving after a super-fun day camping, dinner doesn’t take an hour to make. I can just throw a few things on the coals to warm up and BAM! Dinner is served.

23. Coozies for sippy cups

When my kids drink their morning milk, their poor hands used to get freezing cold holding a sippy cup. After all, mornings when you first wake up camping can be chilly!

Then I found this genius family camping hack: Stick sippy cups in a beer coozie! Their hands will stay nice and warm.

24. More s’mores in the morning

Before you try to roast me over the fire for parenting blasphemy, hear me out why s’mores in the morning is actually a good idea. After all, whoever thought giving kids marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate just before bed never had to struggle to get littles to sleep in a tent. S’mores at night make no sense!

That’s why when we go camping with kids, we do s’mores either after breakfast or in the afternoon. That way, kids have lots of time and opportunity to run off their sugar buzz. My kids are much more likely to fall asleep in our family tent if they didn’t just eat a ton of sweets!

25. DIY foil dinners

Kids like to be in charge. (Or maybe that’s just mine being bossy leaders?) That’s one reason why DIY foil dinners over the camp fire is the perfect family camping meal!

All you need to do is set out an array of pre-chopped ingredients. Then everyone can select what they want in their foil dinner. Here’s how to make ’em:

Set out a long rectangle of tin foil. Place your ingredients in the middle. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic, any sauce you want, and seasonings. Fold the tin foil around the ingredients, creating a compact rectangular package. (You may need to double-wrap the package in a second layer of tin foil.) Place the package on hot coals (not over flames) and turn halfway through cooking. Our foil dinners typically take a half-hour to cook.

Some ideas for DIY foil dinner ingredients:

• Carrots
• Potatoes
• Broccoli
• Onion
• Sweet potatoes
• Tempeh

26. Never underestimate the appeal of a good weenie

100% of the time we go camping, hot dogs are on the menu. But when we camp, I’ve told everyone they must be called camping weenies. (because how fun is that?!)

Kids love grilling their own food, and a plain ol’ hotdog tastes extra-good after a long day of outdoor fun.

Sure, you can make a gourmet camping meal—there are about a million pins for those. But when we camp, simplicity is the name of the game. You don’t have to be fancy; after all, you’re in the woods.

Tricks to make family camping more comfortable

27. Pick your campsite strategically

Most state parks and other reservable campsites have maps of the park layout. When selecting the campsite you reserve, pay attention to what’s nearby.

You do not want to camp next to the camp bathrooms. (These areas get tons of foot traffic from the rest of the campground going to do their business.) Plus, they can smell. Yuck!

In addition, do not camp next to a garbage station. These are super-stinky and similarly get a lot of coming and going.

When you avoid those spots, you and your kids will be much more comfortable—and have a lot more fun camping.

28. Send kids on stick patrol

Before we set up our tent, I send my kids on a mission: Pick up every stick and pinecone you can within the area where we’ll set up our tent. I make it into some kind of game so they actually get excited about clearing a spot for our family tent. That way, sticks and rocks don’t make an uneven, bumpy floor in our tent!

29. Cushion your sleeping bag

No one wants to sleep with a tree root poking them in the back. Depending on what level of comfort you and your kids need to sleep while camping, there are options for you:

• If you’re used to couchsurfing… put a yoga mat beneath your sleeping bag.
• If you’re used to motels… put an inflatable raft beneath your sleeping bag. (These double as fun floaties on the lake during the day!)
• If you’re used to hotels… set up a camping cot and sleep off the ground.
• If you’re used to 4 star accommodation… put an inflatable mattress beneath your sleeping bag.

TBH, we got tired of the yoga mat route, so we invested in a queen-sized inflatable mattress and a battery-powered pump that inflates it in mere minutes. We sleep so much better while camping now! And we’ll never go back to sleeping on the ground. Because everyone has a lot more fun on a family camping trip if you actually slept.

30. Recreate your kids’ home sleeping environment

The first time we went camping with kids, we didn’t think to bring along a white noise machine—and boy did we pay for it! My older daughter, who was just 1 at the time, hardly slept at all.

The same goes for whatever your kids require to sleep well. If they use a lovey at home, bring that. You get the idea.

31. Double up on jammies

Where we camp in the Pacific Northwest, some nights get cold. Temperatures sometimes drop to the 40s or even close to freezing!

To keep kids comfortable at night in the tent, I layer jammies. I’ll usually put them in a two-piece pajama set with a fleece footed pajama on top. That way I don’t worry when they inevitably squirm out of their sleeping bag in the middle of the night. They still stay warm.

32. Keep clothes warm

Early mornings tend to be chilly when you’re camping. Help ease the transition from sleep to a glorious day by keeping the next day’s clothes inside your sleeping bag all night. They’ll stay toasty warm from your body heat, so you and your kids don’t get chilled when changing your clothes!

33. Bust out a camping poncho

I’m pretty sure you’ll agree that somehow, flashlights always get misplaced when you’re camping. (Why? How? Maybe campsite gremlins!)

To keep track of this ultra-necessary bit of camping gear, designate one spot where the flashlight is always returned to. We have a mesh pocket near the door of our family tent where a flashlight lives at all times. That way, if someone has to get up to pee in the middle of the night, they don’t have to search in the dark to find a light!

35. Peeing in the woods…?

My family spends a lot of time outdoors, so ever since my kids were old enough to recognize they had to go #1, they were able to pee in the woods. But not every child is as comfortable using the Great Outdoors as their personal potty.

That’s why I recommend bringing a portable potty, even if they’ve been using a regular toilet for a while. (We have this potty and swear by it because it’s easy to clean and doesn’t take up much space.)

Your kids may be grossed out by the restrooms in campsites anyway and prefer to use a potty. And children who recently potty trained may need to wear a diaper or pull-up to bed in case of accidents. Sleeping in an unfamiliar place, especially where they’d have to pee in the dark, may mean children who stay dry through the night have uncharacteristic accidents.

36. Embrace the adventure!

The biggest thing you can do to ensure a fun family camping trip is adjust your expectations. You probably won’t sleep as well as you do at home. Your kids may skip naps, throw tantrums or trip over a tent pole. That’s ok; family camping isn’t perfect.

Your kids won’t remember the crummy moments. They will remember the special time you spent together as a family outdoors. So just roll with the not-so-great parts of camping with kids.

And if there’s one thing I’ve learned in the six summers we’ve spent family camping, it’s that it gets easier every time. So pack up that tent and get ready to make memories!

Camping with kids for a summer of fun

Do you feel more prepared for family camping now? Do my recommendations for family camping hacks, fun camping activities for families and gear recommendations make you feel more confident? I’m pretty sure they do.

So here’s to a summer full of glorious camping trips. See you out there!

The post 36 fun family camping hacks, activities + games to save your sanity appeared first on To & Fro Fam.