Now that the winter cold has started to disperse, we can turn our attention toward enjoying more time outdoors and renewing connections with family. What better way to do that than during that great spring pastime: spring break?
To help you make the most of this traditional travel time, here are a few tips:
Try the Road Less Travelled
Yes, amusement parks and beaches are fun. They have lots to do and usually have great infrastructures surrounding them to accommodate visitors. During spring break, they also tend to be extra crowded and overpriced. So, why not consider a less popular destination for your spring break trip?
Spring break tends to be a time to enjoy being outside in the newly warm weather. You can do that on a camping/hiking trip in the Rockies or Appalachians. Or you can take a tour of a region known for a particular kind of food or drink your family likes (i.e. cheese, ice cream, coffee). You could even take this opportunity to visit one or more lesser known national parks.
Be Sure to Properly Vet Accommodations
Wherever you decide to go, you want to make sure that the area(s) where you’re staying is conducive to your family’s needs. Sure, the lodgings may look good on their own online, but are there restaurants nearby? Access to transportation? Shopping? Before making any reservations, make sure that the nearby amenities work for you.
While you’re at it, it couldn’t hurt to look more into the safety of the area. After all, you don’t necessarily want to stay in an area that’s a crime hotspot. Check out local crime stats, and lookup addresses for places of interest in the area to see if they’re generally safe or dangerous places to be.
Plan Ahead, but Don’t Plan Too Much
For each day, plan out one or two activities that everyone will enjoy. If possible, arranging for tickets and other things ahead of time could save you money.
That being said, don’t over-schedule in your fear of missing out. Many people are inclined to try to squeeze in as many activities and sight-seeing as possible, to make the most of unexplored territory. But is it worth it if, at the end of the day, your vacation is exhausting? Unless you thrive on go-go-go, accept you can’t do everything and just choose what you all really want to do.
Have Someone You Trust Look After Your Place
It’s hard to enjoy your time away if you’re constantly worried about your pets, plants and house’s security. In your preparations for your trip, engage the services of a trusted friend or house sitter who can feed the dog, water the plants, bring in the mail, and otherwise keep an eye on things. If you prefer, have them text you regular updates to keep your mind at ease.
Bookend a Trip Away with Time at Home
Again, this is just a recommendation to encourage the relaxation aspect of a vacation. Give yourself a buffer zone at the beginning and end of spring break when you’re just at home.
Even just taking one day before a trip can help you start to decompress, pack and otherwise get organized without needing to rush. And a day after can give you and your family a quiet day to recoup after your fun vacation, without having to dive right back in to school or work.
By giving yourself and your family ample time and elbow room, you will ensure a spring break to remember.
