When my daughters were very young, vacations were more stressful than regular life. The girls slept poorly out of their cribs and were cranky when routines changed, and I was doing the same endless chores without my usual systems in place. For me, true vacation was sending them to day care and spending eight hours on the couch. 

Teenagers bring a new set of considerations. I’ve had horrible flight delays on my two most recent family trips, and spent more money at the airport Starbucks than on the vacations themselves. I’ve been called names for insisting on sunscreen (even on cloudy days!) and prioritizing museums over Insta-worthy opportunities. But for me, and I’d imagine for many, it’s still better than traveling with babies.

I recommend a recent piece by Jamie Friedlander Serrano, “How to Make the Most of Vacation,” which lays out several smart strategies for vacation success. Though her tips aren’t aimed at families, per se, they’re actionable and straightforward—the best kind of advice. 

Do you have vacation plans this summer? If so, will you actually get to unwind? Tell me about it, at [email protected]. 

Best,
Andrea