Why in the World Did I Start a Family Travel Blog?

My name is Jen and I am a wife, mom, full-time nurse, and an enthusiastic family travel planner for our tribe of 5.

My husband and I, along with our three boys, ages 8, 11, and 13, thoroughly enjoy traveling together as a family – in fact, we almost always have a family vacation in the books!

Along with the obvious perks related to the excitement of traveling, there are so many unexpected benefits of traveling with kids.

Consequently, we consider travel to be absolutely essential in our overall happiness and well being.  

It is part of the fabric of who we are.

First, why travel as a family?

As a mom, I absolutely love experiencing the joy that comes from traveling together as a family.

The excitement starts stirring as we ride the shuttle to the airport. It continues with the looks of awe in the kids’ faces as they peer out of the airplane window at the mountaintops below.

Then come the giggles that result while trying to build a giant sandcastle amidst the crashing ocean waves.

…Or upon seeing their humongous smiles after having received a handshake from a beloved Disney character.

And finally, in comes the comfort and security of snuggling up together in our hotel beds after our new ‘best-day-ever’.

Next, why plan?

With that said, I happen to love planning for a trip just as much as I love actually taking a trip.  Though that may seem counterproductive, it’s true.

I find it highly invigorating and relaxing to sit at a computer or read a guide book on an upcoming travel destination.

First, I pour over detailed resort reviews, restaurant recommendations, and sightseeing must-dos.  

Next, I ponder each and every vacation day and envision what will and will not work for our family of 5.

Last, I consider the time allotted to spend at each activity to avoid encountering potential meltdowns or stress.

After researching ideas and taking into consideration the current ages and interests of our family, I begin developing a detailed day-to-day travel itinerary and book necessary reservations.

Going into a travel adventure with a plan of action helps to guarantee that we will not miss anything that we want to see or do. Likewise, it minimizes the risk of annoyances that come from expectations not being met.

Finally, having a predetermined travel plan helps us stay within a set budget.

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Want a peek into some of my best and most popular family travel itineraries? Here are the exact plans from some of our favorite trips (that you can easily take too!):

• Chicago 3-day itinerary
• San Diego 6-day itinerary
• Orlando 6-day itinerary
• Siesta Key 6-day itinerary
• Black Hills, SD 4-day itinerary

Finally, why blog?

After putting so much thought and planning into our family vacations, I couldn’t stop pondering how to make my itineraries and tips available for others to use.

In came the idea to share it in the form of a free family travel blog.

My blogging journey subsequently began in January of 2019 when I purchased the domain name Travel With A Plan. I specifically chose this name in order to represent my passion for planning, and helping others to plan, their dream family vacations!

Since then, Travel With A Plan has become a compilation of the research and planning that has gone into making our family vacations both efficient and enjoyable.

It is my way of sharing my travel ideas and favorite family travel products that are practical, and that work for families.

So, whether you’re looking for road trip tips, packing lists, or advice on how to plan an epic all-inclusive getaway, I’ve got you covered!

Join me in making awesome family memories in the form of traveling together as a family!

Though you’re likely to experience a few mishaps along the way, it’s all part of the grand adventure!

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

What’s the most helpful info that you are looking for in a family travel blog? I’d love for you to comment!

Jen

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