It’s official – you’ve set the dates for your next family or friend group getaway! Now, the real fun begins: where do you want to go? Choosing the perfect destination can be a challenge, especially when you have a range of preferences, ages, and expectations to consider. To help you get started, here are some key questions to help you choose between a familiar favorite, a new adventure, and everything in between.
Someplace You’ve Been vs. Somewhere New
- Someplace you’ve been: A familiar destination can feel comforting and easy. Maybe you have favorite spots you’ve visited in the past, or there’s a place that holds sentimental value for everyone. Revisiting a beloved destination means you already know the lay of the land—what to expect from accommodations, local attractions, and restaurants. This can be a big advantage, especially if you’re traveling with young kids or a diverse group with varying interests and needs.
- Somewhere new: On the other hand, a new destination brings the thrill of exploration and the excitement of discovering something fresh. It’s an opportunity to break from routine and create new memories. The idea of discovering a new place together can make the trip even more special. If you’re feeling adventurous and have time to plan, a new destination could offer an unforgettable experience for everyone.
If your group is split between these two options, consider a compromise – perhaps a destination you’ve been to before, but with new activities or sights to explore, or somewhere that’s “new” but still feels familiar in some way (e.g., a neighboring city or town).
Domestic vs. International Travel
When it comes to choosing between domestic and international destinations, there are a few factors to weigh. Domestic travel tends to be simpler—no passports, fewer language barriers, and often a more straightforward booking process. Plus, you’re likely to encounter fewer surprises in terms of culture shock, food, and logistics.
International travel, however, can offer a more immersive experience, where you and your group can learn about different cultures, try new foods, and experience the world in a way that’s just not possible at home. With direct flights, well-connected hubs, and plenty of family-friendly international destinations, there are plenty of options to consider.
Things to consider:
- Budget: International travel often involves higher costs for flights, accommodations, and possibly travel insurance. If you have a limited budget, domestic options might offer better value for money.
- Travel Time: If your group has young kids or limited time off, a closer, domestic destination could be a better choice. Long flights, time zone changes, and extended travel days can be exhausting for children (and adults!).
- Travel Experience: If everyone is up for a big adventure and learning about new cultures, international travel is the way to go. But if you’re after a relaxed getaway, domestic options might fit the bill. With either option, you can also join a guided group tour so you don’t have to worry about the planning or logistics during the trip.
Age of the Kids (or “What’s the Right Pace for Us?”)
If you’re traveling with children, one of the most important factors is how well the destination suits their age and energy levels. Young kids may need a slower pace with lots of downtime, whereas tweens and teens might be up for more adventurous activities.
- Younger Children: Choose destinations with easy access to family-friendly activities like beaches, parks, zoos, aquariums, and interactive museums. Consider places with accommodations that are kid-centric, such as resorts or vacation homes with kid amenities (playgrounds, pools, etc.).
- Teens: Opt for destinations that offer outdoor adventures (think hiking, biking, water sports) or more culturally enriching activities like visiting historical landmarks, taking guided tours, or attending local festivals.
- Multi-Generational Groups: If your group includes grandparents or older relatives, you’ll want to select destinations that cater to all ages. Look for places that have a variety of activities so everyone can find something they enjoy.
Consider the pace of the destination. Family-friendly spots like national parks, coastal cities, and countryside retreats tend to offer a balance of relaxation and activity. Think about how much downtime your group will need versus how much sightseeing and exploration you want to do. If you go the guided tour route, ask about the pacing of the itinerary as well as how kid/family friendly the tour is to ensure there is enough variety and free time for your needs.
How Much Time Do You Have?
The amount of time you have for your trip is another important factor in choosing a destination. For a quick weekend getaway, you’ll want to pick somewhere nearby to maximize your time at the destination rather than spend too much of it traveling.
If you’re taking a longer vacation, you can afford to venture further afield. That’s when the world really opens up! But it’s also worth remembering that a longer trip means you’ll need to plan accordingly, with enough variety in activities to keep everyone engaged and not overwhelmed.
- Short Trip (2-5 days): Focus on destinations within driving distance or quick flights (under 3 hours). Local hidden gems, weekend retreats, and staycations can be ideal for short getaways.
- Longer Vacation (6 days+): You can consider international travel or destinations that are a bit further out. A week or two gives you more time to explore the surroundings, enjoy a slower pace, and really immerse yourself in the destination.
Activities and Attractions
Your destination will depend heavily on the types of activities available for your group. Here are some things to think about:
- Outdoor Adventures: Are you interested in hiking, biking, or exploring national parks? Do you want a beach vacation or a mountain getaway? Many families and friend groups prefer destinations with a mix of outdoor activities and nature exploration. With younger children, having access to a park or swimming pool is generally preferred.
- Cultural or Historical Experiences: Museums, historical sites, and cultural experiences can be exciting for kids and adults alike. If your group enjoys learning and exploring, look for destinations with rich history and interactive experiences. Many of these have programming for children of all ages to make them more relatable and enjoyable for everyone.
- Theme Parks: If your kids are all about roller coasters and cartoon characters, a theme park vacation can be a great choice. Consider iconic spots like Disney or Universal Studios, or smaller regional parks like Dollywood (Tennessee), Busch Gardens (Virginia or Florida), or Silver Dollar City (Missouri) that might be less crowded. Be realistic about how much you will be able to do and what wait times may be so that everyone’s expectations are set accordingly.
Plan around everyone’s age and interests. If you have a diverse group, try choosing a destination with a range of activities—from relaxing at the beach to visiting a local museum, taking nature walks, or participating in cultural events. When our kids were little, we made all the decisions about destinations, but as they got into the tween and teen years, everyone got to make suggestions and we would do a family vote on the top 3 (mom and dad had veto power over any destinations that were over-budget or simply not doable due to time or safety issues) and then do a drawing for the final destination.
Staycations
Sometimes the best vacation is right in your own backyard. A staycation can be a great option if you want to save time on travel, avoid airports, or if you have limited vacation days. Explore your local area like a tourist—check out hidden gems, visit local parks, try new restaurants, and take day trips to nearby attractions.
Staycations can be incredibly cost-effective too, as you won’t have to spend on flights or long-term accommodations. Plus, you can create a relaxed and flexible itinerary without the pressure of trying to see everything.
Look into guided tours, local cooking classes, or day trips that offer something a bit different from your usual routine, so everyone still gets that vacation feeling.
Wrapping Up: Choosing Your Ideal Vacation Destination
Ultimately, the best destination for your family or friend group is the one that balances everyone’s interests, fits the amount of time you have, creates the experiences you want to share together, and is within your budget. Whether you’re revisiting a favorite destination or venturing into uncharted territory, the key is to make the trip as memorable and enjoyable as possible for every member of your group.
Start with a brainstorming session, get input from everyone (kids and adults alike!), and use these considerations to narrow down your options. Wherever you choose, the memories you make along the way will be the highlight of your trip!
Happy planning—and here’s to your next great adventure! And if a group tour where you only have to pick your destination and show up is interesting to you, please contact Quality Time Tour Co – we would love to talk with you and have you travel with us!
