Summer is a time for fun and making memories. When I think of summer, I think of family time, adventure, travel, and joy. Picnics, delicious food, swimming, cute summer outfits—it all sounds amazing.
But let’s be real: for many of us, especially moms, the responsibility of planning a vacation can turn this dream into a stressful job. I used to plan everything from start to finish: where we were going, where we’d stay, how we’d get there, what we’d do, the budget, tickets, codes for Airbnbs, flights, car rentals, groceries, itineraries… you name it.
Although exciting, it was also exhausting. There were so many moving parts, and sometimes I’d ask myself: When do I actually get to enjoy this trip?
Over time, I realized I didn’t want to miss out on the fun I worked so hard to create. I wanted to be present, to make joyful memories, not just manage the trip.
If you’re in the same boat, here are 5 mindful tips to help you reduce vacation stress and actually enjoy your summer getaway.
1️⃣ Remember: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect
One of the biggest sources of stress is expecting everything to go exactly as planned. Life rarely works that way, even vacations!
Instead, think of your plan as a guideline, not an absolute. Even GPS systems offer alternative routes, but you still arrive at your destination.
The real goal is making memories. It’s up to you which kind you make: Will your family remember laughter and joy, or a stressed-out, overwhelmed parent? Embrace flexibility. The imperfect moments often become the funniest and most meaningful stories later.
2️⃣ Plan for Downtime
Not every day needs to be jam-packed with activities. Build in “go with the flow” days.
If you feel like resting, do it. If you want to be spontaneous and explore, go for it. Leaving space in your schedule reduces pressure and allows for unexpected adventures—or much-needed naps by the pool.
Pro Tip: Bring a lightweight travel journal to capture these unplanned moments. I like the gratitud journal becasue it helps you highlight the good things that happened that day.
3️⃣ Stick to Your Budget
Vacations can tempt us to splurge. It’s easy to say, “It’s okay, it’s just this once,” especially at places like theme parks. But overspending can lead to post-vacation stress when the credit card bill arrives.
Setting a realistic budget, and sticking to it, helps you enjoy your time without financial guilt later.
When my kids got older and had their own spending money, I let them know what I would pay for and what they were responsible for. Suddenly, the requests for extra souvenirs or treats dropped dramatically. When it was their own money, they realized they didn’t need it that badly.
- Families Love Travel: Budget Tips
“Great tips for family-friendly, budget-conscious travel.”
4️⃣ Prioritize Quality Time
Family trips often come with competing requests: someone wants to do one thing, someone else wants another.
Depending on the ages in your group, sometimes you can split up for different activities. It’s okay not to do everything together all the time. Smaller group moments can be more intimate, meaningful, and less stressful for everyone.
Whatever you choose, focus on making the time count. Put the phones away, be present, and soak up the moments.
Boeard games or card games are a good option for an evening to wind down.
5️⃣ Hold a Pre-Trip Family Meeting
Before your trip, have a group meeting to go over the plan and hear everyone’s ideas and expectations.
This simple step reduces last-minute changes, surprises, and conflicts. Everyone feels heard, knows what to expect, and you’re all on the same page.
You can even make this fun: plan the itinerary over pizza night, let the kids vote on top activities, or dream up a shared bucket list.
Lonely Planet: Family Travel Guides
“Destination ideas and tips for traveling with kids.”
Conclusion: Make Memories, Not Stress
Summer vacations should be fun—but they can also bring their own stress if we’re not intentional. By letting go of perfection, planning downtime, sticking to a budget, prioritizing quality time, and communicating ahead of time, you can turn your next vacation into the relaxing, memory-filled experience it’s meant to be.
Here’s to more laughter, less stress, and a summer you’ll always remember.
