How to Survive Your Family Vacation

Family vacations are all about reconnecting, having fun, and making lasting memories. However, all that fun and memory-making can still get a little overwhelming at times, which is why it's important to prioritize your health and mental well-being while on a trip. When you feel your best, you'll enjoy the vacation more and be able to truly experience quality time with your loved ones. Here are some of the top tips for surviving a family vacation.

Don't Forget to Eat Healthy

With busy schedules and lots of dining out, eating healthy can be a challenge while on vacation. But using the trip as an excuse to eat junk will only make you feel . . . well, junky. You can still enjoy the occasional indulgence, but find ways to keep up healthy eating habits. Here are some examples:

• Pack healthy, organic snacks, like fruits, veggies, or nuts, for all your activities. (Grab some kid-friendly travel snacks.)
• Research restaurants beforehand to find places with healthy meal options.
• Have the family split a dessert rather than each person ordering their own.

Make Time for Exercise

It's easy to fall out of your exercise routine when you're away from home, but making a little time each day for physical activity will really pay off. You'll feel less sluggish and out-of-whack when you schedule in a quick morning jog or an afternoon yoga session. You can also look for ways to incorporate exercise into your family activities. For example, instead of yet another day at the beach, why not go for a hike with your brood, try stand-up paddle boarding, or explore the area on a family bike ride?

Take Breaks

Whether it's an extended rest area stop on a road trip or a quiet walk around the block at a loud family reunion, a break can be just what the doctor ordered on your vacation. It's not just about getting some solo time; it's also about lowering your stress levels and calming your mind. Vacationing as a family can be just as hectic as it is fun, which is why taking little breaks to relax is so important. You'll be better equipped to enjoy the trip to its fullest when you find simple ways to relieve stress and anxiety. Take breaks during the day or at night after the kids go to sleep.

Get Enough Sleep

While many people think they'll finally be able to catch up on sleep when they take a vacation, most travelers actually end up getting less sleep than normal while they're away. Plan ahead to make sure you get enough sleep, especially since your days will likely be filled with activities for which you'll need extra energy. Nothing's worse than feeling groggy all day when you're on vacation, so make sure you're rested and ready to go each morning. With these strategies in mind, it's easier to focus on the fun parts of an upcoming family vacation rather than worrying about the stress or the effects on your health. Just plan ahead to incorporate these tips, and you'll feel your best throughout the trip.

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