There’s nothing more exciting than preparing for a family trip to attend out-of-town events. There’s nothing as disconcerting, too, as preparing the itinerary for the said family trip and managing the expectations of everyone on what they can get from the trip.
If it’s a big family, you’re in big trouble because that means managing the demands of couples with little kids in tow, as well as your grandparents who may not be up for as many activities as your young and agile body can manage.
Think you’re going crazy because everyone wants to lead the trip? You’re not alone. A vast majority of family members who are somehow tasked to plan and prepare a trip swear to never do it again after doing so. It creates tension and stress that should have otherwise been avoided. Don’t fret, though, because there’s a way to manage all of these without ruining family relationships.
Book flights and accommodations ahead of time
List down the names, personal details, and preferences of each person in the travel group. Find flights and accommodations months away from the planned trip. This will keep the cost low and will allow everyone to save up enough money for the expenses of the trip.
Keep in mind that others may prefer to travel first-class while others don’t have the budget for that. Don’t feel bad if some of your family members will be in coach. It’s important that everyone understands what each one is capable of and there should be no hard feelings about the situation.
Identify the individual needs of your group
Are you traveling with a family with small kids? Put them in a family room and far away from your grandparents’ room because there’s a good chance those kids are going to make a ruckus and won’t let your grandparents sleep. The best way to combat this confusion? Sacrifice yourself and take the bedroom beside the family room.
Allow others to pitch in
Don’t impose your will on others. If you want to be adventurous and take certain trips that will require rigorous physical activity, then simply invite others but don’t impose what you want on them. Allow them to pitch in and suggest items for the itinerary. Everyone can make simple adjustments for the family.
Check out the transportation, entrance, and dining fees beforehand
Know all the tiny details before leaving for the trip. Things like transportation, airport transfers, entrance fees, dining options are important.
Just because you have lived a carefree life and you’ve traveled the same way does not mean everybody does. Most people want to be prepared for all eventualities and they don’t want to be surprised by expenses that can be incurred during the trip.