5 tips to make the most of your family vacation this summer

(BPT) - Summer is just around the corner! With the kids out of school and beautiful weather on the way, it’s time to start planning a family vacation.

Family trips are a great way to bond, make memories and escape from the daily grind. If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of planning a trip, don’t worry. These five tips will help you create a getaway that everyone in your family will enjoy (with a little less stress).

1. Pick a destination

The first step to planning any vacation is picking a destination. As a family, brainstorm ideas and come to a consensus on where to go for your summer break.

You’ll need to answer a few questions to determine the best destination for your family. Will you road trip or fly to your destination? Does the destination have activities for everyone in the family? What will the weather be like when you visit? What is your plan for adventure and downtime? These questions will guide your family so you can pick the best vacation spot.

A simple way to make sure your location has something that everyone in your family will enjoy is to choose a resort. A great example to consider is Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, where families can simply park and stay. Everything your family needs is available under one roof!

At Kalahari, families can enjoy America’s largest indoor waterparks and massive outdoor waterpark spaces, complete with waterslides, pools, lazy rivers and dedicated children’s areas! They also have massive family entertainment centers with hundreds of arcade games, mini golf, escape rooms, bowling and more.

Have a foodie in your family? Dine at any of the resort’s award-winning signature restaurants or grab a quick bite to eat at one of the many grab-and-go options.

Looking for some pampering? Stop by the on-site, full-service spa. Don’t forget about the retail shops where you can buy souvenirs and gifts, or simply stock up on any items you forgot when packing.

2. Plan ahead

Once you’ve decided on a destination, it’s time to start planning. Planning ahead helps you maximize your summer vacation and avoid potential headaches. Without a game plan, you may become overwhelmed with all the choices available, especially if you are visiting an unfamiliar place. Also, make sure the whole family agrees on an itinerary, so you avoid any squabbles and lost time over where to go, what to do or where to eat.

Research the best family-friendly attractions, activities, and accommodations at your destination, and be sure to include options for each family member on the trip. Once you’ve gathered the information, sit your family down and have each member agree to the schedule.

3. Check for local events

Summer is packed with local events and festivals, no matter the destination. So, you’ll want to check ahead to see if there’s anything planned during your trip. When you attend these events, you get a glimpse into the local culture and add some excitement and variety to your vacation. But keep in mind this might also escalate prices and crowds — so be sure to weigh the positives with the negatives based on your family’s interests and needs. Explore your accommodation or local visitor bureau’s website to see if there are any recommendations for local events throughout the year.

4. Set a budget

Set a realistic budget for your summer vacation and stick to it, but make sure to account for any last-minute splurges like souvenirs or treats. A great way to help stay on budget is to look for bundles and family packages that include accommodations, add-on activities and/or dining. Kalahari Resorts, for example, offers myriad packages to add on to your experience — from VIP experiences and dining packages to spa packages. To learn more, visit KalahariResorts.com.

5. Relax and have fun!

Don’t forget the ultimate point of your family vacation: to bond and have fun with those you love! A summer trip is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past year, create stronger relationships, and make memories that will last a lifetime! Be sure to take photos and videos to capture special moments. Make an effort to disconnect from technology and truly be present during the trip.

Using these five tips, you can leave behind the stresses and responsibilities of everyday life and make the most of your summer vacation. Happy travels!