As parents, we often have to make choices about how to spend our time while traveling with our kids. Do we visit tourist traps that they're interested in, or do we try to find more relaxing activities? One option that can please everyone is playing cornhole. It's easy to set up and doesn't require any special skills, so even the youngest members of your family can join in the fun. And since cornhole is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, you'll never have to worry about finding something to do while on vacation again!
Traveling with your family can be a great way to bond and create lasting memories. But sometimes it can be hard to come up with new and creative ideas that will please everyone. If you're looking for some inspiration, here are some creative ideas for traveling with your family.
Take A Road Trip
One classic way to travel with your family is to pile into the car and go on a road trip. This can be a great way to see different parts of the country or even different parts of the world. You can plan out your route in advance or just wing it and see where the open road takes you. Either way, there are a few things you should consider before you hit the road.
A Detailed Plan
The first step to any successful road trip is to have a detailed plan. Decide on your destination and route, and then map out rest stops, gas stations, and restaurants along the way. This will help you avoid getting lost or making impromptu (and often costly) detours. It's also a good idea to research hotels in advance and make reservations if you'll be spending the night on the road.
An Emergency Kit
No one likes to think about breaking down or getting into an accident, but it's always best to be prepared for the worst. Put together an emergency kit with jumper cables, flares, first-aid supplies, and a spare tire. It's also a good idea to pack some snacks and drinks in case you find yourself stranded on the side of the road.
Entertainment for the Kids
If you're traveling with young children, it's essential to have enough entertainment to keep them occupied for hours on end. Pack handheld games, coloring books, and small toys that can be easily stored in the car. For older kids and teens, downloadable movies, TV shows, and music can be a lifesaver. Just make sure everyone has their own set of headphones!
Comfort Supplies
Sitting in a car for hours on end can take a toll on your body, so it's important to pack supplies that will make your trip more comfortable. Blankets, pillows, lumbar supports, and neck rests can help make long drives more bearable. And don't forget the sunscreen! Spending extended periods of time in direct sunlight can wreak havoc on your skin.
A Cooler
Keeping food and drinks cool while you're on the road can be challenging, but it's worth the effort to avoid expensive (and often unhealthy) fast food stops. Pack a cooler with sandwiches, fruits and veggies, chips and dip, and all of your favorite snacks and drinks. This will help you save money and eat healthier while you're away from home.
Go On A Hiking or Camping Trip
Another fun option is to take a hiking or camping trip together. This is a great way to get back to nature and enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's also a great way to bond as a family as you work together to set up camp, cook meals, and explore your surroundings. We've got a short list of some of the "must-haves" for you below.
Tent
If you don't have a tent, you're not going camping—it's as simple as that. When choosing a tent, make sure to pick one that's big enough to comfortably fit your whole family. You'll also want to make sure it has an insect screen so you can keep the mosquitoes out at night. Finally, make sure the tent is easy to set up; the last thing you want is to be fumbling with poles and stakes in the dark after a long day of hiking.
Sleeping bags
No matter how warm it is during the day, temperatures can drop quickly at night—especially if you're camping in the mountains. Make sure everyone in your family has a warm sleeping bag to prevent anyone from getting cold during the night. If you have small children, consider investing in a sleeping bag that doubles as a portable crib. That way, they can sleep soundly through the night without you having to worry about them rolling off a traditional camping cot.
Flashlights
A flashlight is an essential piece of camping gear—you'll need it for everything from going to the bathroom at night to checking on your kids while they're sleeping. Be sure to bring plenty of batteries and spare bulbs so you're never left in the dark. For an added touch of fun, consider bringing along some glow sticks for your kids to play with at night. They'll love marching around the campsite with their very own "light sabers."
Take A Beach Vacation
If you're looking for some sun and sand, then a beach vacation might be just what you need. You can relax on the beach, go swimming, build sandcastles, or even go on exciting boat trips. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone in the family happy on a beach vacation. Don't forget these 11 things on your beach trip
Sunscreen and hats: No matter where you're going or how long you'll be there, protecting yourself and your family from harmful UV rays is always a priority. Don't forget to pack plenty of sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), as well as hats or visors for everyone in the family.
Swimsuits and cover ups: Of course, you can't go to the beach without packing swimsuits! If you'll be spending most of your time in the water, make sure to pack swimsuits that are comfortable and won't fall off when wet. Coverups are also great for taking breaks from the sun and covering up when you're walking around town.
Beach towels: Beach towels are essential for drying off after a dip in the water or lying out on the sand. Most hotels provide towels, but they can often be thin and small. Bring your own large, fluffy towels from home to make sure everyone in the family is comfortable.
Snacks and drinks: No one wants to hear "I'm hungry" every five minutes on vacation. Save yourself (and your wallet) by packing plenty of snacks and drinks for the trip. Non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are great for packing in luggage, while perishable items like sandwiches, fruits, and vegetables can be packed in a cooler for beach days. Don't forget the drinks! Water is always important to stay hydrated in the heat, but it's also fun to pack some juices or sodas for special treats.
Sunglasses and sunglasses straps: Keeping your sunglasses from getting lost is essential on any vacation, but it's especially important at the beach where there's plenty of sand to lose them in. Invest in a good pair of sunglasses and make sure to pack extra straps (or buy them when you get there) so you can keep them safe while swimming or playing in the waves.
First-aid kit: A first-aid kit is always a good idea when traveling with kids. From bandages and antibiotic ointment to bug spray and aloe vera gel, having these items on hand will help you be prepared for anything—sunburns, scrapes, bug bites—that comes your way on vacation.
Toy bucket and shovels: Kids love playing in the sand at the beach, so make sure to pack their toy bucket and shovels so they can build sandcastles to their heart's content! If you don't have any at home, these items are easily found at any dollar store or grocery store near the beach.
Beach chairs or umbrellas: Beaches can get crowded during peak season, so it's important to arrive early if you want to snag a spot with a chair or umbrella. If you don't want to rent chairs every day (or carry them around), consider buying some foldable chairs before your trip that can easily be stored in your trunk until you need them.
Beach bag: A sturdy beach bag is essential for carrying all of your beach gear—towels, clothes, sunscreen—from place to place without having everything get sandy. If possible, try to find one with multiple compartments that will help keep everything organized (and prevent things from getting lost at the bottom of the bag).
Camera: Don't forget to pack your camera (or phone) so you can capture all of your memories from this amazing trip! After all, what's a vacation if you don't have pictures to show for it?
Cornhole Boards: Cornhole is a great game to play at the beach. The sand provides a soft surface to land on if you toss the bags incorrectly, and the waves provide a beautiful backdrop as you compete against your friends. Plus, the sound of the waves crashing in the background makes for a very relaxing experience. So grab your boards and head to the beach for some fun!
Go On A Ski Trip
For those who love the winter months, a ski trip is the perfect option. You can hit the slopes during the day and then relax by the fire with some hot chocolate at night. Or, if you're not into skiing, you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and crisp air while you go snowshoeing or hiking. Either way, a ski trip is sure to be a hit with everyone in the family. Be sure to pack the following items for your trip!
Sunscreen
Even if it's cloudy, the sun's rays can reflect off the snow and damage your skin. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, and reapply it often throughout the day. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Hats and Goggles
You'll need to keep your head warm while you're skiing, so pack a hat or two. A neck warmer or scarf is also a good idea. And don't forget goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind.
Waterproof Gloves or Mittens
Your hands will get cold quickly when you're skiing, so be sure to pack gloves or mittens that will keep them warm and dry. Look for gloves that are waterproof and breathable.
Layers of Clothing
You'll want to wear several layers of clothing so you can adjust as needed throughout the day. Start with a base layer of synthetic material or wool, which will wick away moisture. Add a middle layer of fleece for insulation, and top it off with a waterproof jacket and pants.
Some Games for Inside Activity
Of course the main point of going on a ski trip, or a trip to a winter mountain, is to be outside. But eventually the sun goes down and you need stuff to do in the lodge, or cabin, or hotel, or wherever it is you're sleeping. So it's a good idea to bring some games along with you. Cards are great because there are lots of card games to play and they're easy to travel with, but you may want to consider some other games as well. Board games are super poplar on the mountain, as is cornhole and ladder ball. The good thing about cornhole and ladder ball is they are primarily stationary games, so if your legs are tired from skiing or hiking all day, you can still play! By all means, grab a mug of hot chocolate or cider, pour yourself an adult beverage, and play sitting down. You'll have fun no matter what!
Get Ready For Your Next Vacation
Whatever type of vacation you're looking for, traveling with your family can be a great way to bond and create lasting memories. So don't be afraid to get creative when planning your next trip. Also, don't forget those cornhole boards!
Cornhole is a great game to play on vacation because it is easy to travel with. It also provides a fun way for families to spend time together outdoors. If you are looking for something to do while on your next family vacation, consider playing a few rounds of cornhole. You may be surprised at how much fun you have. You should also consider the ideas mentioned in this article as there are endless possibilities out there waiting to be explored!