10 Super-Fun Traditions for Your Family Vacation

I used to think family vacations were “extra” unnecessaries but I don’t think so anymore. For all the stresses and messes, these are the days we will treasure most.

As author Edith Schaeffer noted, “There is something about saying, ‘We always do this,’ which helps keep the years together. Time is such an elusive thing that if we keep on meaning to do something interesting, but never do it, year would follow year with no special thoughtfulness being expressed in making gifts, surprises, charming table settings, and familiar food. Tradition is a good gift intended to guard the best gifts.”

If a family vacation is one of your family’s traditions, let me encourage you on three things:

1. Keep it up! Even if it takes some sacrifices or even rewriting the thing entirely ("staycation" or something cheaper, or in a different season, or whatever).
2. Realize that family vacations are not synonymous with “rest.” Especially if you are the parent! BUT YOUR HARD WORK IS WORTH IT.
3. Do what you can to maximize this precious time together.

Want some ideas?

Here are ten ways to make the most of a family vacation, to create treasured memories during this time together.

1. Have a “craft afternoon” where everyone creates a special momento to take home.
2. Have at least one special night with an adult-only dinner while the kids watch a movie.
3. Pick on novel or storybook to read each night; you will always remember “We read that book at the beach!” 
4. Pick a certain candle or essential oil to use for a special trip. You’ll always associate that smell with this time.
5. Give kids a special “car trip binder” or bag with special fun things to do during the car ride. (See my suggestions for how to do this here.)
6. Listen to a new audio book in the car that you’ll always associate with this special trip.
7. Have “vacation church” at your rented house if you’re gone on a Sunday.
8. Take the same family picture every trip. (The same person covered to the head in sand, all the kids wearing blue, holding hands looking over a mountain, etc.)
9. During vacation, give each kid a quarter when you see them being kind or doing something unsolicited and thoughtful. They get to use their quarters for souvenirs.
10. Love these ideas? Check out Jessica's 101 Best Summer Bucket List Ideas for Families!