What is Meredith Masony's definitive guide to handling family vacations with kids?

When I talk about family vacations with kids, I’m very clear: they’re awesome in theory, chaotic in practice, and most moms deserve their own vacation after all the prep.

Here’s my “definitive” guide, based on what I live and share:

• Lower the bar: Do not define “success” as everyone being happy all day. Success is “we all made it back alive and mostly speaking.”
• Expect meltdowns: Kids will complain, even in stunning places like Zion. That “All we did was walk” line? Totally normal.
• Plan for rough patches: Snacks, breaks, screen time, and zero shame if someone has to whisper‑scream in a national park bathroom.
• Don’t take it personally: Ungrateful moments don’t mean you’re failing. Every parent has the “I did all this for you?!” thought.
• Give other parents grace: On planes, in parks, in hotels—no one is winning all the time. We’re all just trying to get through the day.
• Remember yourself: Build in your joy—even 20 quiet minutes with coffee. You’re not just the travel agent, pack mule, and cruise director.

If you finish a trip thinking, “I need a vacation from that vacation,” you’re doing it right and you’re not alone.

What part of family travel feels hardest for you right now—planning, the travel day itself, or keeping everyone happy once you’re there?