When planning to travel with kids, have you considered local travel or family all-inclusive resorts right in your own town? There’s no rule that says you have to go far away to be on vacation. It can be fun to look no further than your own backyard — or your neighbor’s. When traveling with kids, choosing to go local can be a (nearly) carefree experience. There are no flights to catch, which alone cuts down on stress. While there is still a car ride (or train), who knows, you may only hear “Are we there yet?” once.

The first step in planning local travel with kids is to determine what kind of experience you want, such as exploring a new place in your own town.

There are other considerations to travel locally. You’ll learn more about the rich culture of your own locale. You’ll have the opportunity to support local businesses, and maybe determine which local treasures or new places to visit that you never knew existed! And for a bonus? It’s better for the environment.

5 TIPS ON PLANNING LOCAL TRAVEL WITH KIDS

Setting Goals and Expectations

Before you dive into the planning process, take a moment to set some goals and expectations for your family trip. This is the perfect time to gather everyone together and talk about what you hope to get out of your adventure. Do you want to create lasting memories by exploring a new destination, or is this trip all about rest and relaxation? Maybe your little ones are dreaming of playtime at the park, while the grown ups are hoping for a bit of downtime. By discussing everyone’s wishes, you can plan a trip that feels rewarding for the whole family.

Remember, the best family trips are those where everyone feels heard. Be flexible—sometimes the most unexpected situations lead to the most cherished memories. Whether your goal is to try something new, spend quality time together, or simply enjoy a change of scenery, setting clear expectations will help you create a trip that everyone will remember fondly.

#1 Involve the Appropriate Adults in the Planning

Depending on who you are planning your local travel with, there are different people to consider. If you are planning a trip with your own children, your partner might be the one to collaborate with. It’s important that each parent is actively involved in scheduling and decision-making for the trip. They may have agreed to the trip but it’s a great idea to be sure that you’re on the same page when it comes to the type of trip you are planning. Will it be a weekend of strict relaxation? Dining out before cozying up in matching luxe robes, and watching movies in the hotel room? Or will it be a site-seeing extravaganza with every moment planned? Would they even consider family all-inclusive resorts?

But if you are traveling with your grandkids, get insight from their parents before embarking on the planning stages. They’ll likely have a better understanding of what their children will be most excited about. As well as their tolerance for excursions.

#2 Involve the Kids in the Planning

When planning travel with kids, the most exciting, and certainly the longest-lasting part of a trip can be the anticipation. When the kids know what you are up to, and are involved in the process of planning, they’ll experience that giddy sense of excitement for that much longer. Not to mention, their input can be invaluable. Maybe you were planning to go to a museum that doesn’t pique their interest. But perhaps there’s an even better alternative that you can explore together. It’s best to consider this before the trip begins. Talking with your kids about the trip, discussing options, and getting their ideas helps build excitement and ensures everyone feels included.

Sitting down with the kids to plan can be a fun activity in and of itself. Plan a fun night with popcorn and snacks and go over the proposed itinerary. Get some input as to what sounds fun, and what items you may want to reconsider. Encourage your kids to practice writing by helping to write packing lists, notes, or even their own checklists for the trip. This writing activity not only helps with organization but also develops their literacy and planning skills.

Ways kids can get involved:

• Allow each child to choose a restaurant for a meal out
• Have children choose games for the trip
• Give input on travel snacks
• Decide on outing
• Help create daily schedules for the trip

I’m not saying that you allow the kid to take complete control, or have final veto power. But if you want to amplify their excitement and anticipation, get them involved. Talk about a win-win!

Choosing a Destination

Choosing the right destination is one of the most exciting parts of planning a family trip. Start by thinking about what kind of vacation your family wants—are you dreaming of a sunny beach, a bustling city, or an outdoor adventure? Use tools like Google Maps to explore different destinations and get a sense of what each place has to offer. Don’t forget to consider the time of year, weather, and travel costs to make sure your plans fit your family’s needs.

Get your kids involved in the decision-making process, too! They might have ideas you haven’t thought of, and their input can make the trip even more fun. Whether you’re planning to visit a new city or revisit a favorite spot, choosing a destination that excites everyone will set the stage for a memorable family adventure. And remember, sometimes the best travel ideas come from friends or other families who have explored before you—so don’t be shy about asking for recommendations!

#3 Put Your Local Travel Plans Out in the World

While you don’t have to announce every little detail, if you don’t want to, it can be a good idea to let the people in your circle know what you’re up to. Chances are, there will be someone who has taken a trip to the same place you are planning. Talking to other travelers can provide valuable insights. And since they know you, they’ll know what you like and what you might want to steer clear of. They can be your own, personal travel insider.

Sharing your travel plans and learning from other travelers can be a rewarding experience.

Planning for Transportation

Transportation can make or break a family trip, so it’s important to plan ahead. If you’re setting out on a road trip, double-check your car seats and make sure everyone is safely buckled in. Plan your route with regular breaks for rest, snacks, and a little playtime—these stops can turn a long drive into a fun part of the journey. Don’t forget to pack favorite toys and entertainment to keep the kids happy along the way.

If your adventure involves flying, research airlines early and book ahead to save money. Make a packing list of essentials for the plane, like snacks, water bottles, and comfort items. No matter how you travel, a little planning goes a long way toward making the journey smooth and enjoyable for the whole family. With the right preparation, you can focus on making memories instead of worrying about logistics.

#4 Consider Family All-Inclusive Resorts

Oftentimes, when looking into resorts, we might overlook something in our own backyard. Hoping, instead, to get a more exotic experience. This can be a huge — not to mention expensive — mistake. Cutting back on the travel distance alone can save hundreds of dollars. But cost is not the only consideration, there’s also the time. When you stay local, you’ll be in the thick of the fun that much sooner. Choosing the right accommodations is essential for family comfort and convenience, making your stay more enjoyable. And even beyond that, you may be missing out on something great because you’re on the lookout for something more exotic.

I say look into family all-inclusive resorts right in your neck of the woods. They’re not all in the Caribbean, you’ll be surprised at what you find! Don’t believe me? Just Google “Family all-inclusive resorts near me.” Summer is a great time to plan a local family getaway, and even a week-long stay at a local resort can be refreshing.

All-inclusive take a lot of the guesswork, that is to say, stress, out of the equation. No more discussions that revolve around an endless circle of, “I don’t know, where do you want to go?” Structuring your trip as a course of activities can help keep everyone engaged and make the most of your time.

Family all-inclusive resorts have tons of activities for adults to do with their children such as skiing or swimming. But also that children can do under their supervision. This means the adults can sneak off and have some time to themselves. Planning activities for the morning and afternoon can help create a balanced itinerary. Creating detailed itineraries ensures families make the most of their stay, and a perfect travel itinerary can guarantee a stress-free and enjoyable experience. These trips create memories that last a lifetime and enrich family life.

Safety First

When it comes to family travel, safety should always come first. Before you set out, research your destination for any specific safety tips—whether it’s water safety at the beach or traffic rules in a new city. Always use car seats for little ones and follow local guidelines to keep everyone protected. It’s a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit and have emergency contact information handy, just in case.

While exploring, keep a close eye on your kids—hold hands, use a stroller, or set up a meeting spot if you get separated. These simple steps can help you create a safe environment where your family can relax and enjoy the adventure. By planning ahead for safety, you’ll be free to explore, have fun, and make lasting memories together.

Planning for Meals and Snacks

A little planning for meals and snacks can make your family trip so much smoother. Think about your kids’ favorite foods and any dietary needs, and research restaurants or grocery stores at your destination. Packing a list of snacks, sandwiches, and refillable water bottles will keep everyone happy and hydrated on the go—and it’s a great way to save money, too.

Don’t forget to be flexible and try new foods along the way; sometimes a spontaneous treat becomes a favorite memory! By planning ahead and packing smart, you’ll ensure that mealtimes are stress-free and enjoyable, leaving more time for adventure and fun. After all, sharing new tastes and treats is one of the best parts of family travel, and it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories on your next trip.

#5 Plan Your Packing Game

Traveling with kids, as opposed to going it alone,  can bring on a whole new set of questions — such as what to pack. Chances are your packing list will be much longer than if you were to travel without children. Try to think about everything your child needs on a day-to-day basis and make a running list weeks out. Add to it whenever something comes up. Getting packed can take hours if you don’t plan ahead, so start early to avoid last-minute stress.

But you won’t need to pack everything! Pair down to what is strictly necessary for comfort. Packing light not only saves space but also makes travel more convenient, especially when managing kids and multiple bags. Also, be sure to check with your hotel or resort to see if they have some of the things that you would need. For example, most hotels have rollaway cribs, so no need to bring the pack-n-play. Call ahead to be sure they have one reserved for you. While you’re at it, ask what else they might provide. Don’t worry if you forget something—most destinations have stores or accommodations to help with any last-minute needs.

There you have my 5 tips for planning local travel with kids. I hope this post sheds some light on how to plan your next travel excursion. Traveling with kids need not be stressful. It can be a delightful experience with memories stored up for a lifetime.

Do you have any favorite places that you get away to locally? Please share in the comments at the bottom of this page. I love hearing from you!

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