So you’re thinking about a vacation with the family? Part of you is giddy with excitement at the thought of getting away. But then you remember…Yikes, how will you travel with the kids? Not to worry. Whether you’re hitting the beach in Mexico or booking a ski vacation on Tremblant, check out five surefire rules to help you have a great family vacation you won’t forget.

Do it together

Plan the vacation together Make it a family vacation right from the start. Look a t some possible options for day excursions, accommodations, or restaurants and let the kids have a say. When you let them be part of the planning, they feel like it’s their vacation too. If you have older children, have them look things up on the internet. It’s a great way to get them involved.

Loosen up

This is not the time to be a schedule queen. Things may not go according to plan. Be prepared in case things go awry. If you focus on your disappointment at missing a sightseeing opportunity, you’ll miss the beauty of your vacation as it passes you by.

Arm yourself

If you’ve got a toddler, chances are you’ve not yet tamed your wild little cyclone. The airline magazine and plastic emergency thingy will occupy your little one for all of ten minutes before he’s screaming to be let loose in the aisles. Fortunately, there are things you can do to avoid this scenario, at least for a little while. A loot bag is a great way to keep smaller children occupied. Buy a bunch of new and inexpensive items: A box of crayons, a new coloring book, an action figure, or whatever you think your child might like. Pull out a new item every hour or so. All the surprises will keep your little one engaged.

Go 50/50

You may want to go ice climbing in Tremblant, but your kids want to hit the indoor playground and swimming pool. Strike a balance and mix the adult activities with the children’s activities. This will give everyone something to look forward to. So you want to go sightseeing? Pick your personal favorites and stick to them, especially if you have younger children in tow. A cranky youngster will take the sparkle out of your thoughtful intentions to catch a glimpse of the area’s oldest chapel and leave you wondering why you wanted to see that old crumbling pile of bricks anyway.

Take it easy

Remember it’s a vacation…what’s the rush? Who cares if you have dinner an hour later or indulge in a big snack instead of lunch? And take some time to rest. The days are busy and everyone is bound to get a little cranky from all the excitement and activity. Remember to take time out to recharge. You’ll be glad you did.