We often hear that as children grow older, family vacations become easier and more enjoyable. However, after experiencing a recent trip with my older kids, I’m starting to suspect that those who say this might not actually have kids of their own. Perhaps they’re just dog owners, happily sipping cocktails on the beach while their pets are boarded at a kennel.
While it’s true that traveling with older children has its advantages—like not having to pack endless supplies of baby food, diapers, and toys—I quickly learned that it’s not all smooth sailing. Here are several reasons why vacationing with older kids can be more challenging than anticipated:
1. Packing Drama with Tweens
At first, I thought it was a blessing when my tween son insisted on packing his own bag. However, I soon realized that he shares his father’s questionable fashion sense. Unlike my husband, who would concede to my style recommendations, my son is adamant about his choices. Suggesting he pack a nice outfit for family photos feels like a dictatorship—any hint of control over his wardrobe is met with resistance, as if I’m imposing a dress code straight from a fashion nightmare.
2. Time Awareness on Long Drives
Long car rides have become a challenge now that my kids are older. Gone are the days when I could distract them with “just one more episode” of their favorite show. Now, they understand time all too well and constantly inquire, “Are we there yet?” even just minutes into the journey. This newfound awareness doesn’t lead them to ration their electronics usage, resulting in dead batteries before we’ve even made it past the next state line.
3. Vacation Plans Aren’t Family Affairs
Older kids have very specific ideas about how to spend every moment of vacation. They may not be contributing financially, but they seem to think the trip revolves around their desires—think jet skiing, mini-golf, and ice cream after every meal. It’s a rude awakening when they discover that their plans clash with mine, like my desire to browse sales while dad schedules his tee time. The days of simply strapping them into a stroller and dictating the itinerary are long gone.
4. The End of Family Photos
These days, capturing vacation memories is a battle. My kids have made it clear that only selfies are acceptable, leaving me to fend for myself when trying to snap family shots. Attempts to document our adventures are met with eye rolls and protests. I just want proof that we had a good time, but my son’s disdain for smiling makes it seem like I’m begging for a crime against fashion and family bonding.
5. Sandcastle Solitude
While they claim they want to play in the sand, it’s only a matter of time before my kids abandon me for more exciting adventures with their cool uncle. I find myself digging a hole alone, covered in sand, while they splash in the waves. Ironically, that solitary moment becomes the one vacation photo where I actually appear—looking ridiculous, but hey, at least I was there!
I’m left wondering if vacations with teenagers are any better. Perhaps I’ll just consider boarding my kids next time.
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Summary
Traveling with older kids can be a mixed bag of challenges, from packing conflicts and questions about time during long car rides to differing vacation expectations and the struggle for family photos. Despite the advantages of reduced baby gear, the reality of vacationing with tweens and teens often results in more frustration than ease.