Family Travel
11 best spring break destinations to go to in 2025
For those with kids, spring break can feel like one of the most important — read: high-stress — weeks of the year. The pressure is on to match the magic of your childhood trips for your own offspring.
Either way, there’s a lot to consider — a hot or cold climate, culture or adventure — and plan. For college students or child-free adults whose jobs come with a spring break, there’s even more flexibility to make it something extraordinary.
Sure, some folks have a favorite destination locked in that takes zero effort to replicate year after year. But for many, this annual spring holiday is the opportunity to make core memories that will last a lifetime and hopefully feel very worth your dollars or points. Here are 11 spring break destinations guaranteed to make a spectacular, lasting impression.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
For a classic beach break
If you desire sun and sand and want to avoid a lot of planning, Riviera Maya calls. This tropical stretch of coastline on the Caribbean Sea between Cancun and Tulum is stacked with luxury resort after luxury resort that caters to your every need. The only reason to leave is a curiosity about cenotes or Mayan ruins.
TPG tip: Safe and sustainable Mayakoba, occupying 595 acres of verdant mangrove lagoons and a one-mile beach, is a true playground for families who can easily move between four resorts and their two dozen-plus eateries.
Rosewood Mayakoba has two- to three-bedroom Lagoon Villas that make adults and little ones — pampered with toys, treats, movie nights and a Rosewood Explorers kids club — very happy. Book an engaging and delicious family cooking class at Mayakoba’s El Pueblito. Rates in March and April begin at $1,145 per night. Book your stay through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts for a $100 property credit, plus other perks upon availability, including early check-in and a room upgrade.
Osaka, Japan
For a part of Japan with something for everyone
Tokyo is great, but Osaka — and Japan’s entire Kansai region — made TPG’s list of the best places to travel in 2025 for many reasons. Osaka has Universal Studios Japan plus a 16th-century castle, cruises down its Venice-like waterways and sumo wrestling showdowns (Japan’s annual grand tournament takes place each March), a Legoland Discovery Center and a massive Ferris wheel.
If Japow is in your lexicon, jet off to get some late-season snowboarding or skiing in Hakuba. For those with later spring breaks, the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 — think our grandparents’ World Fair — begins April 13 and promises a fascinating display of entertainment, innovative exhibits, interactive programs and more.
TPG tip: Opening April 3, Waldorf Astoria Osaka will bring a premiere Hilton property to this charming foodie city — specifically in the mixed-use Grand Green Osaka development right by Osaka Station — complete with a spa and three restaurants. Rates in April start at $1,141 or 100,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
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Related: The most exciting hotel openings of 2025
Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
For when adventure calls
One of those easy yet uber-exciting destinations, Costa Rica’s Papagayo Peninsula has so much for active people of all ages. Yet it’s a fairly easy flight into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) and English is spoken prolifically. Flying past monkeys while zip-lining through tree canopies, deep sea fishing for your dinner, wildlife hiking, windsurfing, scuba diving and learning to surf are all on offer. And the laid-back “pura vida” lifestyle ensures there’s plenty of chill time between activities.
TPG tip: Just the eighth Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Nekajui is one of the area’s newest resorts, and it promises quite a special experience, thanks in part to its lush clifftop perch, suspended treetop bar and spa cabanas, beach club with funicular and hidden speakeasy. March rates start at $2,565 or 143,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Northern Italy
For culture, cuisine and chic stays
If mild weather and few people sound extremely appealing, consider Northern Italy in the early spring. Pack layers and an explorer’s attitude and get ready to traipse around quaint towns and larger cities devoid of the human onslaught of summertime. Gondola rides, walking tours and classical music concerts at Teatro La Fenice in Venice appeal to families with older kids, while skiing — or tubing and sledding — in the Dolomites can capture the spirits of even the youngest travelers. Other spring highlights include Milan Design Week, the Giardini d’Agrumi Festival (Lemon Festival) on Lake Garda, and blooming hydrangeas and wisteria across Lake Como.
TPG tip: JW Marriott Venice‘s 40-acre island resort makes the city extra friendly to kids with its open-air cinema nights, kids club in partnership with the LEGO STEM–designed Bricks 4 Kidz, padel courts and soccer field, cooking academy and Chic-Nic garden picnic setups. Rates begin at $307 or 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
The historic Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni makes a case for a restorative spring escape on Lake Como courtesy of its elegant new Luce del Lago wellness center, complete with a hammam and beach club. Rates start at $890 per night.
Koh Samui, Thailand
For ‘White Lotus’ obsessives
Shot beautifully primarily at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, “The White Lotus” Season 3 may not influence your kids, but it’s probably sparking a little travel envy in anyone old enough to watch. It speaks for itself as a destination: monkey-strewn, Buddhist temple–dotted, white sand–studded islands and the dreamiest water around. Plus, spring is a perfect time to visit weather-wise.
TPG tip: As seen on the small screen, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is epic, and there are plenty of beach sports with complimentary equipment, a treehouse kids club and Four Seasons’ signature comprehensive and complimentary baby and kid gear for rates starting at $2,014 per night in March.
For a more approachable price — beginning at $240 per night in March — there’s Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, a former coconut plantation with gardens designed by Bill Bentley, which also got “White Lotus” screen time.
Mexico City
For exposure to world-class food and festivities
Drenched in purple from its many jacaranda trees, Mexico City is particularly pretty in springtime, with warm weather during the day and cooler temps at night that invite long walks through verdant parks and down broad avenues. A surprisingly great destination with kids, even small ones, the city is an excellent place for all ages to immerse themselves in art, architecture and cuisine. And with frequent festivals — including March’s Vive Latino Music Festival — there’s always something novel to do.
TPG tip: Not far from the hands-on Papalote Museo del Nino in Bosques de Chapultepec, Andaz Mexico City Condesa, is a fun choice for families for its walkability to green spaces, fantastic restaurants, bakeries and even ice cream shops. Corner rooms with record players and a selection of vinyl plus pull-out beds and two toilets are great for those with little ones, who are sure to be entertained by the arcade and board games at the Rooftop Beer Garden & Canine Club. At this Category 4 Hyatt, rates begin at $275 or 12,00 World of Hyatt points per night in March and April.
South Africa
For a wildlife bonanza
Besides lower rates, the perks of low season in South Africa include smaller crowds, more private wildlife sightings and baby animals, and the wine harvest. It’s quite the haul, but with U.S. nonstop options from Delta and United Airlines to Johannesburg and Cape Town, it’s possible to make the most of a spring break in one of the most extraordinary countries on Earth. A safari is a surefire way to engage every family member and make a serious deposit into everyone’s memory banks.
TPG tip: Saxon Hotel, Villas, and Spa in Johannesburg is a glorious place to rest your head upon arrival. It has luscious gardens, divine dining and artifacts everywhere, all endorsed by the likes of Oprah and Beyonce. It’ll get you in the South African spirit in the most sophisticated way possible. Rates begin at $763 per night.
For a safari that could be a bit wet but promises to teem with both predators and prey — plus a Mini Ranger Course for children and exquisite and abundant food and drink for all — there’s Singita Ebony Lodge, starting at $2,680 per night per adult, all-inclusive.
Vietnam
For a Far East beach fantasy
There are closer beaches, but Vietnam offers something many others don’t: a deep connection to a fascinating culture alongside mouthwatering food and postcard-perfect stretches of sand and sea. The weather is, for the most part, flawless in March and April, and while it would be a shame not to stop in a city such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, an easy spring break agenda would focus greatly on a coastal destination up or down the long, skinny country.
TPG tip: Opt for way-off-the-beaten-path at sustainable Zannier Bai San Ho, a 245-acre Eden in Phu Yen where adults can zen out at the bucket list spa while kids are snorkeling, surfing, water skiing or playing in the kids club. Rates start at $322 in March and April.
Alternately, the glamorous Regent Phu Quoc on a popular holiday island is a fabulous fly-and-flop spot with perks for everyone in the family. Rates begin at $372 or 69,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Los Angeles
For a spring break you can feel good about
After January’s Palisades and Altadena fires, the best domestic spring break destination is Los Angeles, where morale could use a boost from tourists thrilled to be experiencing an iconic city that still has so much to love. From Santa Monica’s famous pier and Venice’s legendary boardwalk to Hollywood studios (and Universal Studios), artsy downtown, inclusive WeHo and ritzy Beverly Hills, there are so many stops to string together during a family trip that can also include mini road trips to nearby destinations like Disneyland or Santa Barbara.
TPG tip: With Santa Monica celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2025, there’s never been a more dynamic time to make the city home base. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is as storied as it gets with its Old Hollywood pedigree, prime perch above the Pacific Ocean and 1930s beach bungalows that happily accommodate a family — and put them mere steps from the free-form swimming pool (a kid magnet). Rates start at $516 per night in March.
Related: The 27 best hotels in Los Angeles for your next visit
Hamburg, Germany
For a dose of European charm
It’s not the most obvious destination, but Hamburg has a lot going for it that makes it very charming for families. First, it’s the greenest city in Germany, with parks and woodland areas making up almost half of it. In April, an immersive LEGO Discovery Centre will open, and there’s also a fantastic zoo, planetarium, chocolate museum (yes, you heard that right) and a lake for sailing. The Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg even has a new exhibit dedicated to glitter.
TPG tip: Right on Lake Alster, The Fontenay is a well-located 130-room luxury hotel — with a spa for stressed-out parents — doling out arrival gifts to kids and offering them creative dishes in its Parkview restaurant. Rates begin at $354 in March and April.
Puerto Rico
For a passport-free escape that feels like you’re really away
Puerto Rico is the best of both worlds when you want to feel far away without a long flight — or passport. The Spanish-speaking island that’s part of the United States offers visitors some sublime natural beauty in the form of El Yunque National Forest, magical bioluminescence in Vieques and vibrant beaches such as Flamenco, not to mention migrating humpback whales, usually into March. The inaugural four-day Puerto Rico Wine & Food Festival starts on April 3.
TPG tip: La Concha Resort — reflagging from a Renaissance Hotel to Marriott International’s Autograph Collection later this year — reveals a stylish transformation of its 238 rooms and suites in April, while March brings two new restaurants, both oceanfront, with one by renowned chef Michael White occupying the notable shell structure just off the sand. Rates start at $474 or 121,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
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Saturday, July 19, 2025
UK families hoping to swap the gloomy British weather for some sunshine will find the lowest priced short-haul destination is Marmaris in Turkey, research from Post Office Travel Money said. This idyllic port city along Turkey’s southwest coast has something for the whole family, with activities, historical sites, and beaches with some of the best value compared to other touristy destinations.
Family travel can rack up the expenses, especially during peak periods such as school holidays when prices are inflated. Between flights, lodging, and meals, the expenses can pile up in a hurry. As a result, frugal travelers can sometimes work around the costs, including by visiting in the off season or seeking out value destinations. Marmaris has become a favourite with families on a budget – and not just because of its rich culture, stunning scenery, and inexpensive prices.
Marmaris: Turkey’s Budget-Friendly Gem
Marmaris is the cheapest of 16 holiday destinations for a set of 10 tourist items in a study carried out by Post Office Travel Money. A family of four can eat a three-course meal with wine and soft drinks for a mere £67.67. Basic things like a 1.5-liter mineral water 1.5 litres (16p), a bottle or can of cola in a café (£1.81), and insect repellent only £2.61. Marmaris as a destination is inexpensive for family holidays in 2019; this is largely thanks to the plummet in the value of the Turkish lira, and it´s a great option for UK families who want their travel budget to stretch as far as possible.
Turkey has been a popular holiday choice for Britons for many years with its mix of history, culture, and scenery. In Mexico, visitors will encounter one of the few destinations in the world that truly offers something for everyone, from recent remnants of the ancient world to port towns and resort areas supplied with every amenity and attraction a contemporary family or friend vacation demands. Marmaris in particular offers a wealth of cheap, family-friendly things to see and do; boat trips, hikes in the nearby national parks, and even visiting ancient ruins won’t leave your wallet feeling any lighter.
Why UK Families like Marmaris
The study by Post Office Travel Money looked at 16 of the most popular holiday destinations, including Spain’s Ibiza, Portugal’s Algarve, and Bulgaria’s Sunny Beach. Marmaris topped the list for value for money, with the combined items costing £128.99 – half the price of the most expensive area, Ibiza, where the same basket of goods would have cost £242.79.
Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, cautioned against Brits not taking heed and said: “Today the pound is worth a third more in Turkey than a year ago. “However, this only applies to the exchange rate, and last year was artificially low for holidaymakers. But with the favourable rate of exchange, British visitors will still only have to fork out some 10% more than last year, and Marmaris is a very cheap place to visit when compared to your average European holiday haunt.
Other Budget-friendly Places for UK Families to Visit
Marmaris might tip the scale, but other places make for a cheap family holiday. That was followed by Bulgaria’s Sunny Beach and Portugal’s Algarve. Both deliver excellent bang for buck, with several places to stay, eat, and play for a fraction of what you would pay in other European hotspots. In the Algarve, for instance, there has been an increase in families looking for budget holidays that don’t skimp on quality or experiences.
But some places are less generous to family budgets. Prices for holidays for Britons have increased in 13 of the 16 destinations surveyed. Ibiza was by far the most expensive place, where the total cost of the 10 items was over twice the price of Marmaris.
Travel Advice for UK Families Travelling to Turkey
Here’s what UK families need to know if travel to Turkey is on the plane, nowhere near the horizon. Your passport needs to be valid for at least 150 days and should contain at least one free page when you arrive in Turkey. If you are a Turkish resident, your passport will need to be valid for six months from the date of your arrival.
Then the bonus is that Marmaris is affordable, so plenty of activities can be enjoyed on your family holiday! Whether you want to laze on the beach, visit ancient ruins, or take to the water, Marmaris is the perfect place to do it. The city’s lively marina district, lovely waterfront, and picturesque old town offer lots of things to see and do for the whole family.
What’s more, Marmaris is well located, with direct routes from most major airports, making it easy and convenient for UK families to get to.
Why Marmaris is the Right Destination for Your Next Family Trip
Teletext Holidays With its competitive prices, extensive culture scene, and a common interest in family activities, Marmaris is becoming the number one port of call for UK families. With a mix of affordable options, great weather, and unique activities on offer, this combination makes the country an ideal destination for families who want to not only get away, but get away without crunching the numbers abroad.
Marmaris is, in summary, a brilliant budget summer vacation hot spot. From sightseeing, lazy days on attractive beaches, to tasty local food, Marmaris guarantees a fun-filled family holiday that’s not going to break the bank. This alluring Turkish city is fast becoming the go-to choice for UK families on a budget when it comes to an affordable and memorable break.
(Source: Post Office Travel Money, UK Government, Turkish Government)
Tags: affordable family vacations, algarve, budget travel destinations, bulgaria, cheap family holidays, cheapest holiday destinations, Europe, holiday destinations 2023, Ibiza, Marmaris, Marmaris Turkey, Sunny Beach, travel deals Turkey, Turkey, Turkey travel guide, UK family holidays, UK to Turkey Travel, United Kingdom
Balancing what we want versus our children’s expectations for a family vacation feels like an impossible task. One kid wants to stay all day in the hotel pool, the other wants to visit the arcade, and you wish you could relax just for a moment with a quiet coffee and a view. And if you’re on a budget, meeting everyone’s needs can be even more difficult. But when everything clicks? Pure magic. That’s why choosing the right destination is so important.
We’ve all been there: struggling to plan the perfect family vacation. The good news is that family travel is easier than ever! These days, more and more parents are looking for trips that offer a mix of fun, learning, and time to actually enjoy each other’s company (without devices or distractions). Whether it’s spotting wildlife in a national park, tasting new foods in Europe, or building sandcastles together on a quiet beach, a family holiday is the best way to make memories that’ll last forever.
We’re here to help you plan the vacation you and your family deserve. From nearby US getaways to once-in-a-lifetime international adventures, we want to help you discover the best spots to take your kids in 2025—all within your budget, so you can spend on the good stuff (like museum passes, park entrance fees, and ice cream for the whole family).
Planning the perfect family vacation in 2025
Why family travel is more popular than ever
Once you become a parent, you see the world in a whole different way, and that includes traveling. There’s a common misconception that children and travel do not mix, but honestly, there are few things more rewarding than watching them explore the world. And what better way to do it than through memories made while experiencing things together.
On top of that, there’s a new travel mindset when it comes to families, one that aims to make parents feel welcomed. These days, it’s more common to find kid-friendly spaces anywhere you travel, from airports and hotels to tourist attractions. We’re also seeing better flight routes, more flexible bookings, and family discounts that make planning your family vacations a breeze. Even better? Going can simplify your airfare search by sending you the best deals from your local airport.
How to make your family vacation unforgettable
Every parent knows: You can’t control everything, so no use expecting that it’ll all go according to plan. The best family vacations are the ones where everyone laughs and learns something new.
To make your trip truly unforgettable, it helps to think in big sections. Start with a few “must-do” activities, but leave space in your itinerary for slower, unscripted moments—like a spontaneous stop at a scenic overlook. Mix structured activities (like a guided city tour or timed-entry attraction ticket) with unstructured ones (playgrounds, ice cream stops, or just a lazy beach afternoon).
And, this may sound small, but snack breaks and rest time work wonders (especially when traveling with toddlers). A well-timed juice box or a quick nap at the hotel can turn a meltdown into a fun afternoon. Keep expectations flexible, celebrate the little wins (like catching a train just before departure!), and remember: The goal isn’t to see everything—it’s to enjoy it all together.
Best family-friendly destinations in the US
1. Orlando, Florida
Known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando is a favorite for kids of all ages. With Walt Disney World and Universal Studios practically in its backyard, this city’s entire economy was built around fun. It’s stroller-friendly, easy to navigate, and loaded with accommodations designed specifically for families. Even beyond the theme parks, you can find water parks, science centers, and interactive shows—meaning even on your “rest days,” there’s plenty to do.
- Top attractions: Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Kennedy Space Center
- Best time to visit: Late spring (April–May) or fall (September–November) for fewer crowds and better prices.
- Why it’s great for kids: Endless themed entertainment, character encounters, rides for every age, and family-focused hotels make Orlando perfect for vacations with toddlers through teens.
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
If your kids are the kind who get excited about animals, plants, or just being outdoors, most US national parks are an excellent choice. Yellowstone is one of the best choices for its diversity and accessibility for families. The park’s extensive landscapes, roaming wildlife, and surreal geothermal features offer the kind of incredible moments that make any vacation unforgettable. Plus, there are ranger programs to help kids connect with nature.
- Top attractions: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar Valley wildlife watching
- Best time to visit: Summer (June–August) for full access to trails and visitor programs.
- Why it’s great for kids: Outdoor adventure, wildlife, and natural wonders make this a perfect unplugged vacation for curious kids and active families.
3. San Diego, California
San Diego sits in that sweet spot between laid-back beach town and fun-filled city. You can spend one day watching lions roar at the world-famous zoo and the next building sandcastles at La Jolla Shores. Plus, if you consider LEGOLAND and the USS Midway Museum, you’ve got a destination that entertains everyone.
- Top attractions: San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California, La Jolla Shores Beach
- Best time to visit: March–May or September–November for great weather and lighter crowds.
- Why it’s great for kids: Combines animals, beach days, and gentle attractions into one easygoing destination that’s fun for all ages.
Best family-friendly destinations internationally
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo offers a cultural experience that you can’t find anywhere else. From quirky vending machines and themed cafés to ancient temples and bustling markets, there’s something cool around every corner. The city is clean, extremely safe, and known for its hospitality. Besides, who wouldn’t want to visit a place where you can pet capybaras in one park and battle Pokémon in another?
- Top attractions: Tokyo Disneyland, Ueno Zoo, Harajuku shopping
- Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms or fall (September–November) for cooler weather.
- Why it’s great for kids: Tech, anime, and theme parks make Tokyo perfect for curious, energetic kids and teens interested in pop culture.
2. Paris, France
Paris might not be the first place you think of for a kid-friendly vacation, but beyond the Eiffel Tower, there are parks with puppet shows, boat rides on the Seine, and crepe stands around nearly every corner. There are also interactive museums like the Cité des Sciences tailored for children. Plus, you can easily pair a cultural outing with a magical day trip to Disneyland Paris.
- Top attractions: Eiffel Tower, Versailles Palace, Cité des Sciences, Disneyland Paris
- Best time to visit: April–June or September–October for mild weather and fewer tourists
- Why it’s great for kids: Mix of classic sightseeing and kid-centered museums, plus pastries and public gardens that make exploring fun and relaxing
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is basically a natural playground, and it’s especially ideal for active families who love wildlife and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re zip-lining through the jungle, relaxing in hot springs, or spotting monkeys during a hike, the country invites you to connect with nature and one another. Many eco-lodges are also family-run and ideal for staying with kids.
- Top attractions: Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, zip-lining tours
- Best time to visit: December–April (dry season) for the best weather
- Why it’s great for kids: Offers a mix of wildlife, adventure, and educational opportunities that are both exciting and meaningful for children.
Best destinations by age group: from toddlers to teens
For toddlers (0–4 years)
The key to traveling with toddlers is slowing down, keeping routines close, and creating a safe, simple environment where they can explore without getting overwhelmed. The destination should offer stroller-friendly streets, minimal travel stress, and lots of open space for free play.
Best destinations
San Diego is a toddler-approved destination thanks to its gentle beaches and world-famous zoo. A cruise through the Caribbean can also be a great choice thanks to their built-in family-friendly structure, toddler splash zones, and onboard childcare.
If you’re looking for a slower-paced vacation in nature, a destination like Stowe, Vermont, is great for fresh air and quiet walks. Also Banff, Canada, with its scenic gondola rides and stroller-friendly trails, offers amazing views without needing to hike.
For young kids (5–10 years)
At this age, kids are like a sponge: They soak up new information and experiences but still enjoy the magic of make-believe. It’s ideal to find destinations that are hands-on, imaginative, and full of action without being too fast-paced or overwhelming.
Best destinations
At this age, kids love hands-on fun and a touch of magic. Orlando tops the list with its theme parks. Copenhagen also offers whimsical rides at Tivoli Gardens and its interactive museums. Similarly, Chicago’s museums offer just the right mix of education and play.
If you want a vacation where both you and your kids can relax and unplug, Lake Tahoe is a peaceful retreat with beginner-friendly hiking trails and plenty of space to get outside together. Amelia Island, Florida, is another gem, with quiet beaches, bike paths, and a charming small-town vibe.
For tweens (11–13 years)
This might be the hardest group to please. Tweens want to feel independent and capable but still close to the comforts of home. The best way to keep them happy is to find destinations with the kind of cool-factor that keeps them off their electronics—at least for a little while.
Best destinations
New York City gives tweens a taste of big-city life with iconic attractions and famous Broadway musicals. London blends the urban with old-world charm. Plus, Harry Potter attractions also add to the experience.
If you’re looking for an adventure you and your kids can enjoy, Costa Rica is full of jungle adventures and animal encounters. Hawaii’s Big Island is also an exciting choice with volcano excursions and snorkeling experiences.
For teens (14+ years)
Teenagers can also be tricky to please, but the right destination can get them excited, curious, and open to new experiences. You’ll want places where they can roam a bit, discover things on their own, and try something new.
Best destinations
If you’re looking for an adventure in nature, Oahu offers teens a perfect mix of surfing lessons, scenic hikes, and laid-back island energy. Rome is also great for slow-paced exploring, blending history with ancient ruins and gelato breaks between landmarks.
For something more upbeat, Seoul blends K-pop culture, night markets, and trendy neighborhoods in a city that’s vibrant yet safe to explore. Similarly, Tokyo is the perfect place for teens that love anime, arcades, and street fashion.
Quick overview of favourite family travel spots and top deals
| Destination | Best time to visit | Best Going deal |
| Orlando, Florida | Late spring (April–May), fall (September–November) | $157 RT |
| Yellowstone National Park | Summer (June–August) | $245 RT |
| Paris, France | Spring (April–June), fall (September–October) | $536 RT |
| Tokyo, Japan | Spring (March–May), fall | $809 RT |
| Costa Rica | Dry season (December–April) | $334 RT |
| Copenhagen, Denmark | Summer (June–August) | $501 RT |
| Sydney, Australia | Summer (December–February) | $871 RT |
Best tips for traveling with kids
Plan ahead: How to make the trip smoother
When you’re traveling with kids, even the tiniest details matter. It’s no secret that sometimes a missed nap or long wait can snowball. Still, it’s important to distinguish between planning ahead and mapping out every second. A well-planned trip means taking care of the basics before you leave home. Book flights that match your kids’ natural rhythms (midday flights often work better than early mornings), and choose accommodations with space. If possible, try to find a place with a pool, kitchenette, and laundry (you’ll thank us later).
Also, make a rough outline of each day so you’re not scrambling to figure things out while someone’s hungry or tired. Pre-book attractions with time slots and keep a short list of kid-friendly food spots near you.
Pack smart: What to bring for kids’ comfort
Packing for a family trip is all about preparation, not perfection. Kids often appreciate options, especially when it comes to clothes. First and foremost, bring layers and backup outfits for everyone (including you). Also, if you have small children, bring familiar items from home that offer comfort, like a favorite stuffed animal or bedtime book. For entertainment, load a tablet with movies or games, pack coloring books or sticker pads, as well as kid-friendly board games.
Don’t underestimate the power of snacks. Go for options that are portable, mess-free, and can keep your kids full. Think crackers, fruit pouches, granola bars, and refillable water bottles. Most importantly, make sure your carry-on has the appropriate medications, wipes, and a change of clothes in case of spills, accidents, or sudden weather changes.
Involve the kids in the planning process
It can be hard to let go of control, but including your small children in planning your vacations is the best way to keep them engaged. Show them pictures of your destination, let them help choose an activity or a souvenir, or ask them what they’re most excited about. It makes them feel included and helps them be more assertive.
For older kids and teens, you can let them pick one thing to do each day—whether it’s a museum visit, a food stop, or a walk to a cool local shop. It helps avoid resistance and also takes the pressure off parents to entertain them 24/7.
Take breaks and keep a flexible schedule
Sadly, no matter how much fun you’re having, kids can still get tired, bored, or cranky. Even for grown-ups, airports, museums, and big cities can be overstimulating, so don’t overschedule. Limit your days to one or two activities max, with built-in time for rest, meals, and simply sitting still.
Make space in your schedule for unplanned events, like playground visits and breaks to taste local pastries. These small moments often become the best memories. And if plans go sideways? You can always adjust. The best family vacations are the ones where everyone feels like they had time to enjoy, not just to “get through it.”
Be prepared for the unexpected
Here’s the first rule of family vacations: Something will go wrong. That’s just part of the deal. But a little preparation can make those bumps easier to handle. Carry a small emergency kit with band-aids, motion sickness medicine, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and a few comforting items like candy or a toy.
Another easy way to prepare for the unexpected is to download Google Maps for offline use, pack backup chargers, and keep snacks handy at all times. Think of yourself as the calm, snack-equipped captain of the ship. You’ve got this! Even if the ship is occasionally on fire.
Let the adventure begin: Plan your family vacation in 2025
There’s no one-size-fits-all family vacation. Whether your dream trip involves hiking through a national park, wandering ancient ruins, or sunbathing and disconnecting from daily routines, now’s the time to start planning and create memories with your kids.
No matter what you’re looking for, these experiences don’t have to come with a sky-high cost. With Going’s personalized flight alerts, you can discover amazing destinations for far less than you might expect. Our app helps you find the best deals, as you can set up flight alerts for the destinations you want to go, without having to wait for an email notification when our team finds cheap flights.
So take this as your sign to start planning! There’s a perfect destination waiting for your family, and we’re here to help you get there for less.
Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.
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