Life has a way of pulling us in many directions, but I am working hard to filter what I would really like to devote my time to and what could go. My poor, neglected travel blog has made the cut. When I think of my true passions in life, outside of my family of course, travel is right up there at the top. If I could, I'd be jetting off on a trip every month. Lately that's almost been my schedule and I am so sad I have not taken the time to keep this updated along the way.
It's never too late to catch up, though, so here is my fresh start and commitment to help you make your dreams of a family vacation come true.
Family Vacation. How do those two words make you feel?
Nervous? Excited? Happy? Apprehensive? Miserable?!
When I think of those two words, I feel excitement and joy.
My husband and I love taking our family on the road. It is not all sunshine and roses while we're away, but seeing the country and the life experiences that go along with it are worth it. Over the past year we have taken the kids to our favorite North Carolina beach, Texas, and Arizona. The first two were road trips that took us through 14 states and the latter (though originally intended to be a road trip) turned into a quick plane ride west where we added two more states to our travel log for the year.
The underlying theme to our trips? Age-appropriate and a budget. If you would like to take the leap and take a family vacation, this is where you need to start.
The most important decision is determining your budget. Vacations are meant to be a relaxing, fun break from reality. Taking a vacation that you cannot afford will only add stress. Set your budget and stick with it. Family vacations look different for everyone. You can have an AMAZING time on any sized budget.
Once you've figured out your budget, you need to be considerate of the age of those in your family. A trip to Washington D.C. to see all of the historical sites may sound like an amazing opportunity, but if your kids are young and unable to understand the importance and significance of the landmarks and they don't have the endurance to walk around all day, it will likely leave you all with a bad taste in your mouth.
There are wonderful opportunities for kids of all ages all over the country. Make a list of the places you'd love to see and determine what will work for your family in this season of life. Planning a vacation that is age-appropriate will make your time away much more enjoyable. Your memories will be mostly filled with happy moments (there's always something, right?!).
If you're hesitant to take a family trip, answering these questions may help you throw caution to the wind and take the first steps toward making life-long memories with your family. If the idea of a family vacation makes you squirm, start small. Take a short road trip for a few nights to get the ball rolling.
A change of scenery can make a world of difference in your family atmosphere. Our kids count down the days until we set off on our next adventure and are always sad when they have to end. We have all done activities that have pushed us out of our comfort zones, seen the amazing natural wonders all over the country, and had some amazing experiences we would have never had if we had stayed in the comfort of our little town.
What are you waiting for?! Don't know where to start? I can help!
Gina is a mom of 4 who LOVES to vacation. More times than not, her family hits the road together, but occasionally she and her husband have the opportunity to travel alone. Want help planning your vacation? Email Gina today! You can also check out her website: www.qcbusybee.com
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