Stress Less, Smile More: My Top Tips to Help Families Actually Relax on Vacation

Hi there! I’m Kim, your friendly neighborhood family travel planner. I’ve helped so many families plan vacations—from magical Disney escapes to unplugged beach getaways. And if there’s one thing I hear over and over again, it’s this: “I need a vacation from my vacation!” Sound familiar?

I get it. Between flight delays, hangry kiddos, jam-packed itineraries, and the pressure to make every moment magical, family trips can start to feel more like military operations than relaxing getaways. But I promise, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Here are my go-to strategies to actually de-stress and enjoy your family vacation—for real this time.

Start Slow: The Power of a Buffer Day

Instead of diving headfirst into sightseeing the moment you land, build in a low-key day to adjust and settle in. This is especially crucial if you're changing time zones. A buffer day helps everyone ease into vacation mode (and yes, that includes you, parent-who-packed-for-everyone). Or if you really want to get into the action right away, make sure to schedule at least one “rest” or “down” day during your trip! Use this day for something simple—think beach walks, pool time, or exploring the neighborhood around your hotel.

Don't Over-Schedule.

Yes, there are a million things to see and do everywhere you go, BUT when your itinerary is packed from sunrise to bedtime, meltdowns (from both kids and adults) are basically inevitable. It might be smart to pick one main activity per day, and let the rest unfold naturally. Leave space for spontaneous gelato stops, playground adventures, or afternoon naps.

Remember: what your kids will remember most might not be the museum—it’s the silly face Dad made while trying to speak Italian.

Prioritize Sleep (Even on Vacation!)

Late nights and early mornings every day = cranky crew. Try to stick somewhat close to your regular sleep routines, especially for younger kids. If your hotel has blackout curtains, amazing. If not, pack a travel blackout shade or a sleep mask. And bring a white noise app or machine to drown out hotel hallway chatter. I always try to make the sleeping environment for the kids as close as to what they are used to at home. I know it’s not going to be 100% apples to apples, but the closer the better!

Pack Light—But Smart

Overpacking can create stress so as much as you can limit bringing all the EXTRA things you don’t need. Choose versatile outfits, bring snacks that travel well (because hungry kids = stress), and don’t forget the comfort items like special stuffed animals or blankets that help little ones feel at home. Always pack one full outfit per person in your carry-on. Lost luggage shouldn’t be the reason your vacation starts scrambling to find an outfit for the next day in Target.

Build in “You” Time

Yes, you’re there to make memories together—but don’t forget yourself. Tag-team with your partner for a solo walk, book a spa service while the kids are in a kids' club, or even just enjoy 15 quiet minutes with your coffee before the family wakes up. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential to showing up as the best version of yourself on the trip.

Let Go of the Picture-Perfect Trip

Instagram may show flawless family selfies in front of the Eiffel Tower—but what it doesn’t show is the pre-photo argument or the spilled juice box five minutes later. Because I am telling you I know for a fact it happened and people just hid that part of their trip from the general public! Embrace the mess. The magic is often in the imperfections. The belly laughs during a missed train adventure or the joy of dancing in the rain instead of rushing to cover—those are the moments you’ll cherish.

Consider Hiring a Pro (Like Me!)

One of the biggest stress relievers? Not having to plan everything yourself. A travel planner can take care of the logistics, research, bookings, and backup plans—so you can focus on making memories, not spreadsheets.

If you're feeling overwhelmed trying to plan your next family getaway, shoot me a DM on Instagram! I’d love to help you create a trip that feels good for your unique crew. Vacations should fill your cup—not drain it. With a little intention, a touch of flexibility, and a whole lot of grace, your next family trip really can be the relaxing escape you dream of.

You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back!! 💕

About Kim: Kim is a Travel Planner with Goldgell Getaways. She specializes in helping moms and families book less stressful vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, cruises and other Disney destinations. Kim walks clients through the planning process step by step and takes the guesswork (and stress) out of travel! From research to booking and recommendations to reservations, Kim is your one stop shop for a fabulous family vacation! Kim was previously a health and mindset coach for moms who specialized in stress management. She decided to pivot to travel planning so that she could focus on reducing stress and increasing fun in one specific area for moms - travel and vacation planning! Looking to go to Niagara Falls Canada or any other type of vacation? Kim can help with that! Just fill out this form! 🏝️🎡