Family Vacation Travel Tips

Get the children involved with the process. They will soon learn that vacations begin with the planning! Anticipation is half the fun and there is pride in being part of the process.

Start with a list and then weed out what you really won’t need. Count the days you will be away and only take the amount of clothing needed for that time. Check an item off the list as it goes in the suitcase, and, most importantly, stick to your list.

Our children always wanted to pack every book and toy they had, just in case they needed it! So, put limits on their list. They will get to make decisions that matter to them and at the same time, learn to prioritize!

Finish packing the day before you leave on your trip. This will allow you a good night’s sleep and a less stressful departure.

Marcia’s family jokingly referred to vacations as “forced family fun” time! Games and surprises ruled the day. Dad would put three marks, one for each child, on a tire. Everyone would hurry out of the car at each stop to see whose mark was closest to the pavement. The winning child would get a quarter. It was a good way for the kids to add to their spending money and keep the family laughing.

Kathy’s youngest brother had the best behavior imaginable at every restaurant stop. This was thanks to mom who thought to pack a bag filled with little cars, plastic dinosaurs, and farm animals to keep him interested and occupied. He never saw these toys unless he was at a restaurant!

Don't forget to bring some reading material. Vacation is the perfect time to read a good book!

These simple family vacation travel tips will help to make your family trip a memorable one!

• involve the entire family in the planning and packing
• travel light: only take what you need
• finish packing the day before your departure
• plan activities to enjoy in route

Insider Tip: History buffs and travelers of all ages love to go through
Fort Mackinac. Do not miss this exciting and interesting experience.

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