5 Ways to Actually Relax on a Family Vacation
(Yes, even with kids. Yes, I’m serious.)
Let’s be honest: the phrase “family vacation” can sometimes feel like a lie. You pack half your house, wrangle tiny humans through TSA, and by the time you’ve unpacked the snacks for the third time in 12 hours, you’re wondering why you even left the house.
But! It is possible to relax on a family trip—you just have to plan for it. Here are five ways I’ve actually found peace (and a few deep breaths) while traveling with kids.
1. Lower Your Expectations… Even Lower Than That
If your idea of vacation includes lounging with a book for hours, let's adjust. Aim for a solid 15 minutes of peace with no one needing a snack or a band-aid. Anything above that? Bonus. If you go into it expecting some chaos, the calm will feel like a gift.
2. Rent Baby Gear at Your Destination
Nothing ruins a vacation faster than hauling gear through three airports and a rental car line. I use BabyQuip to rent clean, safe gear delivered straight to where we’re staying. Fewer logistics = more relaxation. Period.
🛬 Check gear rentals here
3. Build in Chill Time (and Stick to It)
Every trip doesn’t need a packed itinerary. Schedule in actual downtime—like beach hours with no plans, pool days, or lazy mornings where the only goal is finishing your iced coffee before it melts. Your nervous system will thank you.
4. Book Kid-Friendly Everything
Don’t try to force your toddlers into your ideal adult trip. Choose hotels with splash pads. Restaurants where no one glares at you if a crayon hits the floor. Tours with a stroller policy and snacks included. When your environment is kid-friendly, you can actually enjoy being there too.
5. Have a “Save Mom” Strategy
Let everyone know: Mom gets 30–60 minutes a day to herself. Morning walk, solo Target run, spa treatment, whatever. The rest of the crew will survive. You are not their cruise director 24/7—and recharging makes you a way better travel companion.
TL;DR:
The vacation won’t be perfect. But it can be restful(ish), joyful, and worth the effort—if you set the tone and protect your peace.
Because even moms deserve to come home from vacation feeling like they got one.
