Family Travel Resolutions for 2007

If you aren't sure this is a worthy resolution, consult this list of Top 10 Reasons to Travel with Kids.

Here's how to make this New Year's resolution actually stick.

Think regionally

You don't have to flit off to Europe or South America to travel with your family. If you have been stuck at home too much, it might be challenging to suddenly become the hardcore traveling family. Instead, look for weekend getaways to nearby destinations, or maybe even daytrips to your nearest city or cute town.

Shoot, just get out more with the kids in your own town. Many people are afraid it will be tough to go somewhere with the children. Face your fears! It really isn't as hard as you think, and it is incredibly rewarding for them and you.

Budget for travel

If you never set aside money or vacation time to travel, guess what? You probably will never go. While it might have been easier to take a last-minute getaway when you were single or just a couple, more planning is needed when kids are involved. But even if you think every penny you bring in is committed, there is always a way to stash some cash aside for a trip. Find out how you can afford your dream family vacation, or how to save gas on roadtrips.

Make the Trip Easier

Travel with kids doesn't have to be hard or cumbersome. Sure, they have lots more equipment and it means being on the go while helping the kids. But it really isn't terribly difficult compared to everyday life, especially if you know some family travel survival secrets. Get some help with these baby travel tips and the road trip planner.

Multi-Task Your Travel

Family schedules can be so hectic. This, behind the fear of traveling with kids and concerns about finances, is probably one of the major hurdles to family travel. Don't let it be! Any parent has grown accustomed to multi-tasking, so apply those skills to working travel into your calendar. Let travel do double duty with other demands. You can suggest a destination family reunion, for instance. You can also use travel as a way to teach or homeschool your children.

Above All, Travel

You must make travel a priority just like anything else. If you don't, it probably won't happen. Change your perspective. Don't see a three-day weekend as a reason to lie around the house or clean. See it as an excuse to get out an bond with the kids. Don't immediately use that tax refund to buy a new big-screen TV. Set half aside for a summer vacation. You will be a happier and stronger family for it.

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