What are Meredith Masony's signature techniques for managing family dynamics during travel?

Lower the bar on “perfect” – I expect bickering, meltdowns, and someone hating the restaurant. That way I am pleasantly surprised instead of constantly disappointed.

Shorter, cheaper, closer – think 48‑hour staycations or nearby trips so the fighting happens at a discount.

Take the trip anyway – especially with a different-needs child, I spent years avoiding travel out of fear. What I learned: the little in‑between moments of joy are worth the stress.

Laugh through it – I narrate the chaos with humor instead of shame.