Traveling with teens can be a lot of fun. You just have to learn how to do things a little differently. We have some tips, tricks, and hacks that will help make your next adventure with your teen a breeze!
It’s important to remember that teens are caught in that strange place between being a child and an adult. That’s a difficult space to navigate. Be sure to keep this in mind not only when you’re planning your trip, but while you’re on vacation.
Pack your patience!
This is probably the most important tip we can offer. Remember that teens are not going to love everything you love. They are going to want some freedom and time away from the family scene. Everybody can be happy if you just practice a little patience.
Find their interest.
Talk to your teen and find out what they are interested in doing or seeing at your destination. In fact, let them be a part of the decision making process when choosing the destination.
Speaking of destinations, if you need help choosing one check out our blog post Choosing a Travel Destination .
Establish cellphone and earbud guidlines.
Establishing guidelines for electronics can save everyone a lot of stress. Let this be a joint decision with your teen. Let them know you understand their need to stay in touch with friends. Allow them some time each day to touch base through social media or text.
The same idea applies to wearing earbuds. Establish set family times sans earbuds or AirPods.
Put your hotel address in their phone.
In the unlikely event that you and your teen become separated (outside of set boundaries), make sure they have cash and the address of your hotel. This gives them the ability to grab a taxi or use public transportation (depending on where you are vacationing) to get back to the hotel.
Also, if they don’t know how, teach them to use the map app for directions on their phone.
Spending money is important.
Whether they have a job, do chores, or have saved birthday cash, it’s a good ides to make sure teens have spending money for souvenirs and snacks. Teens are always hungry! Give them the freedom to run in the gelato shop next door and grab a snack. Or, maybe they want a specific t-shirt. Buying their own souvenir will make them feel more invested in the trip.
Remember that teens require a lot of sleep.
Teenagers need more sleep than younger children and adults. Allow them to sleep in a little or grab a nap. This can make for a happier, less grumpy teen.
Are you looking for more tips on traveling with teenagers? Check out our video podcast Traveling With Teens.
And remember, break the monotony, not the bank.
— Jeff and Marnie
