Vacation Tips for the Family

Of coarse when you're going on vacation there are certain items that you just must have if you intend to have a relaxing, memorable, drama free vacation. A map to your location is a must, I know it sounds like a no brainier but you would be surprised how many times I've come across people at a gas station that are on their way on vacation and have forgotten to bring their map. I've done it so I know how it feels, so make sure you don't forget it. If you can afford it I would just up to a GPS system, but if not, don't forget the map.

Be sure to give yourself plenty of extra time. The worse thing in the world is to have to rush around in the morning trying to get on the road. You're trying to get the kids dressed, have a little breakfast, coffee, then you hurry out the door, but once you get to your vacation spot and begin to unload the car you realize you've forgot your bag. I know, again it sound like a no brainier, but it happens believe me I know. There isn't

Anything worse then getting down to Disney only to realize the only clothes you have are the ones on your back.

I always try and load up my car with the luggage the night before that way all me and the family have to do is get up, get dressed, and then be on our way. Cuts down on the rushing around, which cuts the odds of you forgetting something down.

The drive or the flight to the vacation destination can be trying if you have smaller children and they begin to get bored. I live in Florida so I can drive to Disney, and I always make sure my wife and I have plenty of stuff for our kid to do. When he was a toddler, it was a little more difficult, he would need to be entertained. Now that he's older, we make sure to bring his video games and he's fine.

We also like to bring along iPods, magazines, just whatever you think you might need to keep everyone busy for most of the trip. These things are easy to forget, so I would make sure to leave them on the counter or some place you will be sure to see them before you leave the house. Trust me you don't want to forget them; they are a great way to pass the time.

I would say the same thing about Cameras and video cameras, be sure to put them some place you won't forget them. You don't want to get to your vacation and not be able to take pictures or record some of the awesome sights I'm sure you'll be seeing.