1. Start planning early:
Before you even start planning a trip, research! Research about adventure spots suitable for your family. If you have a toddler, you'd want a town nearby where you can buy diapers and other necessities. Adults love trying new ethnic food but kids aren't so keen on that. It will help to pick a place which has a McDonald's nearby.
2. Know everyone's expectations:
Discuss with each member of your family what their expectations are and then start scheduling a travel itinerary which makes everyone happy.
3. Airfare takes the most money:
Airfare isn't cheap especially when buying multiple tickets so you should start planning the trip at least three months beforehand. Check various websites for airfare to your destination. Don't buy the first deal you see because airlines change airfare constantly. Repeatedly check multiple times a week before you buy your tickets.
4. Keep adventure during the journey minimal:
Often times, people choose flights with multiple layovers to save money. If you're traveling solo then it's great but a long flight with children can turn into a nightmare. Keeping the travel time as minimum as your budget allows. Kids throwing up on the plane or throwing tantrums is not the kind of adventure you want!
5. Good accommodations are hard to find:
Once you've decided your destination and bought tickets, focus on the accommodations. Hotels can be very expensive so look online for B&Bs. You can even rent a house, and that's often what families do.
6. Use your trip as a learning opportunity:
Yes, the purpose of the trip is adventure but that doesn't mean you can't make it more meaningful than that. I know a friend who recently took her family to Greece for a vacation. She chose it because Greece has lots of sights and adventure but also because she wanted her children to interact with the Syrian refugees there. Her kids were so grateful for that experience because they were able to make a positive difference in someone else's life. She says her kids have become more mature after that trip. So pick a spot which reflects the values you're trying to instill in your children.
7. Keep safety and comfort in mind:
While your teenager will love waterfall rappelling, it might be a frightening and uncomfortable experience for the six year old. Beaches are great but a rugged and rocky shoreline is not the safest place to take your kids. Places like safaris and wildlife sanctuaries are adventure spots kids love the most. Recently, Costa Rica has emerged as a popular spot for family adventures. It has beautiful beaches, dense rainforests, ziplining, wildlife sanctuaries, volcanos, caves and hiking trails.
8. Pay attention to the tour agency:
Adventure spots and sports require a proper guide and safety precautions. It's very important to first thoroughly vet the tour agency you choose for your trip. Luckily, reviews for every place and every company can be found online. So do your research before you put the safety and enjoyment of your family in someone else's hands.
With these tips in mind, you should have no trouble having a thrilling adventure with your family.
