Hello there, fellow globetrotters! Do you remember the first time you traveled with your teen? If you’ve stumbled upon this page, either you’re about to embark on your maiden voyage or you’re hoping to smooth out the wrinkles from the last adventure. If memories of eye-rolls, earbuds, and a need for excessive bathroom breaks come to mind, you’re in the right place. Trust me, I’ve been there!
Planning Together
First off, get your teens involved in the planning process. Recall my vacation to Hawaii? I thought I’d nailed it until my excited suggestion of a luaus was met with groans. I learned the hard way – explore potential destinations and activities as a family. Give teens a stake in the holiday, and they’re more likely to enjoy it. “The Family Vacation Survival Guide” backs this, saying teens who help plan trips feel more invested in them (source)
Identifying Interests
My son loves anything on wheels. So, when we went to Austin, we rented bikes to explore. Look for activities that align with your teen’s interests. Not only will you bypass complaints, but, like us, you might also get to enjoy the city from a perspective not many get to see. Here’s an idea, splendid for bookworms: try hunting down spots from their favorite novels (Harry Potter tour in London, anyone?).
Balance
“Traveling with Teens – The Essentials” mentions finding the right balance between family time and freedom (source). It’s important to respect their need for independence and space. On our trip to New York, there was something for everyone. Museums and Broadway for us, parks and off-beaten paths for them. We set meeting points and let them explore. They loved having their freedom, and we had fun comparing notes over dinner.
Stay Connected
Let’s speak the truth: teens are glued to their gadgets. Use this to your advantage. Encourage them to document their journey on their platforms. Snapchatting, Vlogging, you name it. When in Rome, my daughter went from infamous eye-roller to a passionate storyteller, sharing her unique perspective on ancient ruins and Italian Fare with her followers.
Conclusion
Trips with your teens don’t have to be an ordeal. Remember, communication is your best companion. So whether you’re exploring historic sites or soaking up the sun, with these tried-and-tested-tips, your next vacation won’t just be “tolerable”; it will be fun-filled and memorable for the entire family. Happy trails!