After all the lockdowns and stay-at-home orders, it’s no wonder that many families are desperate to ditch online schooling and Zoom meetings for the tail end of summer sun and fun. While it is not the best year for travel, truth be told, it is still possible. If you are itching for some time away from your backyard, here are some safe suggestions for family travel ideas.
Family Travel Ideas: Book a Vacation Rental
Don’t kid yourself. Now is the best time to get a home away from home. A vacation rental allows you to enjoy some aquatic fun at the beach or the fresh mountain air without having to face clearing protocols every night (as you would in a hotel).
You only need to check-in once. After that, you can spread out and social distance as much as needed. No matter where you want to travel, chances are there is a rental company in the area.
In popular tourist areas you can often find a pool of managed properties. You can also check online platforms that offer private properties for rent such as HomeAway, VRBO, and Airbnb. These sites are great for families because they allow you to search by specific parameters like “needing a crib” or “window guards” for example.
To protect arriving guests, Airbnb advises their hosts to follow the “Host Cleaning Protocol.” Since it’s not mandatory, look for properties that have the “Enhanced Clean” badge. As advised by the CDC, the protocol includes establishing a 24-hour period between guests.
HomeAway and VRBO are promoting similar protocols. Still, just to be safe, you can disinfect doorknobs, faucets, sinks, tables, and other high-touch surfaces when you arrive. If you must cancel for any reason, or travel to the area becomes chancy due to the pandemic, be sure to read the fine print before you book.
Family Travel Ideas: Rent an RV
If you have ever dreamed about touring the country in a motorhome, now is the time to make it happen. The current situation this summer has made RV-ing really popular, so rest assured there will be other adventure-loving families to keep you company in a communal camp.
According to the Boston Globe, RV rentals and sales are skyrocketing. It’s easy to see why— an RV allows you to have your own kitchen, bedroom and bath and everything else you need for your adventures. And best of all … you don’t even have to unpack when you arrive.
Getting an RV does not have too cost much. Check Craigslist for used ones or maybe you can borrow one from a friend. If you opt for a vehicle-based vacation, be sure to find a parking place in advance.
Family Travel Ideas: Camp Under the Stars
Every year, tourists flock to our glorious national parks in the US. However, this year many international visitors won’t be visiting due to closed borders and limited air travel. That has freed up our nature sanctuaries across the country. If you’re still worried about crowds, however, especially on Labor Day Weekend for example, a state park campsite may be a better choice.
No matter if you are camping pros or first-timers, it’s best to check out local campgrounds first. You probably don’t have to trek across the country to find one and there are numerous online platforms to help. For instance, you can use Campendium or Hipcamp to find a camping spot for your family on private land.
Aside from tents and summer sleeping bags, make sure to bring cleaning supplies, disinfectants, and face masks. There are numerous high-touch areas at campsites, such as communal restrooms.
Some campgrounds have swimming pools and activity areas but keep in mind that using these amenities might be tricky due to social distancing policies.
Family Travel Ideas: Charter a Yacht
If sailing is your passion and budget is not an issue, consider chartering a sailboat or yacht. And do know that private flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands are available and a great option. You can anchor your vessel in a secluded spot and have it all to yourself. Or should you want to do some serious boating, make sure your charter contract includes a coronavirus-friendly cancellation clause.
Family Travel Ideas: Social Distancing at Vacation Resorts
A resort property may be the best choice if you love infinity pools, water parks, playhouses, and other fantastic family amenities. Numerous luxury resorts are now welcoming guests again and most have enhanced safety measures and cleaning policies, so you do not have to worry about COVID-19. Look for one with strict face mask and social distancing policies for guests and staff.
Here are a few family-friendly options where you can enjoy the great outdoors:
- Massanutten Resort, Virginia
- Big Cedar Lodge, Missouri
- Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, Texas
- C Lazy U Ranch, Colorado
- Barnsley Resort, Georgia
- Bald Head Island, North Carolina