Simple Strategies to Enjoy Family Trips: Tips from a Chevy Chase Therapist
May 23, 2025 | By Dana Harron
As we approach the end of the school year and summer kicks into full swing many families are preparing for their upcoming travel plans. But summer family trips don’t necessarily go as planned (or hoped). Any family trip can be the stuff of lifelong memories or the stuff of major stress. Between coordinating the traveling plans, the variety of the family members' personalities, and trying to keep everyone happy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you find yourself dreading the chaos more than looking forward to the fun, you’re not alone. Here are a few simple strategies to help you stay grounded and present during your summer adventures.
Set Realistic Expectations
It’s tempting to imagine the perfect trip: everyone gets along, no one complains, and every moment is Instagram-worthy. But let’s be real, family trips rarely (if ever) go exactly as planned. People get cranky, flights get delayed, and someone always forgets to pack something important. By setting realistic expectations from the start, you can reduce frustration and learn to roll with the punches when things don’t go perfectly. Focus on creating meaningful moments, not perfect ones.
Build in Downtime
It’s easy to over-schedule vacations, trying to squeeze in every possible activity. But constant motion can lead to burnout, especially for families with young kids or different energy levels. Make sure to build in downtime whether that’s an afternoon by the pool, a quiet evening with a book, or a lazy morning sleeping in. Giving everyone space to recharge can make the more active moments even more enjoyable.
Stay Connected to Yourself
Family trips often mean prioritizing everyone else’s needs, but don’t forget about your own. Find small ways to stay connected to yourself, whether it’s a morning walk, journaling, or simply taking a few deep breaths when things get hectic. Staying grounded starts with tuning into your own emotions and needs. When you’re calm and centered, it’s easier to navigate whatever the trip throws your way. Remember, you need to put on your own oxygen mask first before you can help others.
Communicate Openly
Clear communication can prevent a lot of misunderstandings and stress. Talk with your family before the trip about everyone’s expectations and needs. During the trip, check in regularly to see how everyone is feeling. If tensions rise, try to address issues calmly and openly rather than letting them simmer. Remember, it’s okay to take a break from the group if you need to.
Practice Flexibility
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No matter how well you plan, unexpected challenges are bound to pop up. Flights get canceled, weather changes, or plans fall through. Practicing flexibility and modeling it for your family can help everyone adapt more easily. Sometimes the best memories come from the unplanned moments, like finding a hidden gem of a restaurant after your original plans fell through.
Focus on Connection Over Perfection
At the end of the day, family trips are really about connecting with your loved ones. It’s not about having a flawless itinerary or checking every box on your sightseeing list. It’s about sharing experiences, laughing together, and creating memories, even if some of those memories include a meltdown at the airport or a detour that took twice as long as expected. Embrace the imperfections as part of the adventure.
Family trips don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. With a little preparation and a lot of flexibility, you can stay grounded and make the most of your time together. Real change is possible, even on family trips.
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