Family travel 5: Hitting the road with kids

Many adults will hit the road with grandchildren or other junior family members this year. If you’re thinking of a similar trip, here are five ideas to consider:

Choosing a destination

Would the kids like to see an island volcano, sample cowboy culture or to send selfies with the Statue of Liberty as backdrop? Maybe a sandy beach, a cozy mountain cabin or a river rafting adventure will be up their alley? Consider getting input from the kids on a destination that intrigues them.

One-on-one time with a grandchild, niece or nephew can be a very special experience for both travelers. However, if you choose to explore with children of various ages, be sure to select a location or adventure you can handle without additional adult support. Check the weather forecast and local reports shortly before departure and provide necessary updates so that everyone is properly prepared.

For more: nycgo.com; www.hoteldrover.com; www.oars.com

Before the adventure begins

Sure, you know your kids or grandkids. But make sure you are up to speed on any new food allergies and preferences, anxieties about travel, the need for a certain stuffed animal at bedtime or a teen’s recent breakup. Will the kids have their own money to spend and should it be monitored? Cover the final itinerary with the adults in the picture to uncover any additional insights they might have for making the trip as stellar as possible.

Consider discussing the itinerary and the rules of the road before departure. If the children are old enough, talk about bedtime, dining decisions and safety measures so it will be clear who is in charge. If you’ll be traveling with older children, get clarity on guidelines regarding social media, phone and computer time and options for independent outings.

Bring backup

Of course you want to spend time with the kids. But, every grown-up deserves a little R&R on their own holiday. If you are planning a trip as a solo adult, consider including a favorite auntie, your college roommate or another bestie who will relish some vacation time with you and your favorite little people.

That way, you’ll have a built-in pal for spa time while the youngsters are at the resort’s kids camp or for a late-night chat while the little ones are snoozing. You may also want to take turns as the “adult in charge” while the other heads to the gym, takes a nap or grabs an hour by the pool with a great book.

Create a custom trip

Design your own or work with a tour company, adventure outfitter or travel agent to manifest a family getaway that will be picture perfect. Choose your destination, the desired level of adventure and inquire about ways for each family member to have the proper mix of down time and active participation. Consider adrenaline-pumping hiking, biking or rafting trips or itineraries that include cultural exploration in urban areas or faraway points on the globe. Your imagination and expectations paired with the experience and knowledge of a travel pro will result in a dream family vacation.

For more: www.abercrombiekent.com; www.backroads.com

Opt for a guest ranch

With an authentic and scenic setting as backdrop, you and your junior adventurers can enjoy beautiful places and learn horsemanship from experienced hands who will tailor the instruction to your skill and interest level. Opt to ride in open meadows, on mountain trails or in the desert Southwest. Will your family members choose to participate in a real cattle drive? Are you up for a horse pack trip into the backcountry? Will your youngsters be eager to learn the skills required for team penning and other arena games? Or will you be happy to relax during daily trail rides. The options are yours at working dude ranches and guest ranches across the country. Furthermore, you’ll easily meet other families and share stories on the trail, around a campfire or across the breakfast and dinner tables.

For more: www.duderanch.org

This story was originally published April 6, 2026 at 10:56 AM.