Free National Park Pass for 4th Graders: How Every Kid Outdoors Works
U.S. fourth graders can get a free pass that gets their family into national parks and other federal lands for a full year. Here is how to get and use it.
Category: Family Travel
Planning trips with children: packing, flights, road trips, and affordable places to go.
How Much Does a Theme Park Vacation Cost for a Family of Four?
Tickets are only one line of a theme park budget. Here is what a family of four can expect to pay at three budget levels, and how to trim each cost.
Cheap Family Vacation Ideas: Lower-Cost Trip Types Compared
A cheap family vacation starts with the trip type, not the destination. Here are eight low-cost options compared by cost, what drives the price and how to trim it.
First Theme Park Trip With Kids: A Planning Timeline and Day Plan
A good first park day is short on rides and long on planning. Use this timeline, sample day and packing list to keep kids happy from the gate to the exit.
Your First Family Camping Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
A first camping trip works best when it is short, close to home and simple. Here is a step-by-step plan, a gear checklist and safety basics for families.
Family Vacation Packing List: What to Pack by Person and Bag
Pack by person, add one shared bag and keep a day bag within reach. Use this master checklist, then add extras for your climate.
Holiday Road Trip Packing List for Families
Pack a winter car kit, warm layers, gifts, food and a bag each child can manage. Here is the checklist by category, with a note on coats and car seats.
How to Plan a Family Road Trip on a Budget, Line by Line
A road trip budget is five lines: fuel, lodging, food, attractions and a buffer. Estimate each, set a total, then trim the biggest lines first.
Staycation Ideas for Families: Weekend and Week-Long Plans
A staycation feels like a trip when you plan it like one. Here are weekend and week-long plans with daily themes, outings near home and budget tiers.
Best National Parks for Kids: 8 Family-Friendly Picks Compared
The best parks for kids pair short, easy trails with something that grabs attention. Here are eight, compared by age, season and what to plan for.