Taking the Kids: Lessons Learned When Traveling with Grown (or Nearly Grown) Kids

Monica Gray - June 11, 2025

Traveling with older children—whether they’re college-bound teens or young adults—introduces a new dynamic to family adventures. Gone are the days of rigid itineraries and constant supervision. Instead, you’re met with a blend of independence, evolving interests, and the occasional eye roll. Yet, these trips offer opportunities for deeper connection, laughter, and mutual growth. Below are 20 lessons learned on the road, filled with practical tips, lighthearted stories, and honest reflections for families navigating this unique travel stage together.

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1. Flexibility Is Your Best Friend

With grown or nearly grown kids, rigid itineraries often go out the window. Embracing flexibility—whether it’s taking a spontaneous detour or skipping a planned stop—can make all the difference. These moments allow everyone to unwind and truly enjoy the trip. As highlighted by the New York Times, building flexibility into your travel plans means less stress and more meaningful experiences for the whole family.

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2. Let Go of Perfection

Striving for the perfect vacation often leads to frustration—especially with older kids. Unplanned moments and minor mishaps become the stories everyone laughs about later. Embracing these imperfections shifts the focus from flawless photos to genuine connection. According to Psychology Today, letting go of perfection fosters stronger family bonds and more enjoyable travels together.

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3. Involve Everyone in Planning

When older kids help shape the trip, their investment and excitement increase. Let them choose restaurants, must-see sights, or even activities for a free afternoon. Sharing the planning responsibilities reduces complaints and creates a sense of ownership. The Washington Post suggests that collaborative travel planning not only balances interests but also strengthens family bonds during multigenerational adventures.

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4. Respect Their Independence

As kids grow, their desire for independence naturally increases. Allowing safe solo explorations—like browsing a market or exploring a nearby park—builds confidence and trust. Meanwhile, you can enjoy a moment to yourself at a café. According to National Geographic, encouraging independence in young travelers fosters essential life skills and boosts self-assurance, making the trip memorable for everyone.

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5. Negotiate Screen Time

With technology ever-present, setting screen time boundaries is key. Instead of strict bans, discuss limits—like no phones at dinner or during special outings. This approach respects their habits while encouraging connection. For more tips, Common Sense Media provides helpful advice on balancing screen time during family travel.

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6. Budget Transparently

Traveling with older kids can lead to higher costs for activities, dining, and lodging. Having open conversations about your budget early ensures everyone is on the same page and helps avoid disappointment or awkward moments. According to Money Crashers, transparent budget discussions not only manage expectations but also teach valuable financial skills to young adults.

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7. Share Responsibilities

Assigning meaningful tasks—such as navigating, packing, or managing tickets—empowers older kids and fosters teamwork. When everyone has a role, the trip flows more smoothly, and each person feels like a valuable part of the journey. As noted by Family Vacation Critic, shared responsibilities encourage cooperation and make family travel more enjoyable for all.

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8. Accept Changing Interests

Older kids’ tastes and hobbies can change dramatically over time. That amusement park they loved years ago might now take a back seat to art galleries or live music. Stay open to their evolving preferences. As Travel + Leisure points out, adapting your plans helps keep everyone engaged and excited during your travels.

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9. Prioritize Downtime

Packing every day with activities often leads to fatigue and irritability. Building in time to rest—whether it’s sleeping in, lounging by the pool, or simply reading—helps everyone recharge. These quiet moments are just as important as sightseeing. According to U.S. News, balancing excitement with relaxation keeps family trips fun and stress-free.

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10. Embrace Separate Activities

Sometimes the best way to enjoy a trip is to split up for a while. Parents can dive into history at a museum, while teens or young adults explore local shops or cafés. When you regroup, sharing your adventures brings fresh energy and perspective. As Lonely Planet suggests, allowing space for individual interests can make family travel more rewarding for everyone.

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11. Talk About Expectations

Clear, honest discussions about trip expectations—like daily schedules or food preferences—help prevent frustration later on. Making space for everyone’s input ensures all voices are valued. Regular check-ins during the trip can also smooth out potential conflicts. As Psychology Today notes, open communication is essential for positive family travel experiences.

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12. Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledging small achievements—such as mastering the subway or tasting a new dish—boosts confidence and group spirit. Expressing gratitude for each other’s efforts keeps the vibe upbeat. As Harvard Business Review explains, celebrating little victories along the way can make the overall experience more rewarding for everyone.

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13. Address Conflicts Quickly

Traveling together can spark disagreements, especially when everyone has strong opinions. Nip conflicts in the bud by addressing issues calmly and directly, before frustration escalates. Listening and showing empathy can quickly defuse tension. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that open, respectful communication is key to resolving travel-related conflicts and maintaining family harmony.

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14. Let Traditions Evolve

Family traditions are special, but they don’t always stay the same as kids get older. Maybe you trade beach days for mountain hikes, or swap out old favorite restaurants for new local gems. Allowing these rituals to change keeps them relevant and memorable. As The New York Times notes, evolving traditions can strengthen family bonds through every life stage.

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15. Encourage Them to Document the Trip

Many older kids enjoy documenting their experiences through photos, journals, or even vlogs. Encouraging this creativity not only preserves memories but also deepens their engagement with each destination. As National Geographic suggests, documenting travel helps young people reflect on their adventures and see the trip through their own lens.

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16. Share the Why Behind Destinations

Explaining the meaning or history behind your travel choices gives the journey more significance. Whether it’s tracing family heritage or exploring a city’s role in history, sharing these stories can ignite curiosity and lead to meaningful conversations. As Smithsonian Magazine highlights, weaving personal narratives into travel enriches the experience for everyone.

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17. Be Prepared for Different Energy Levels

Traveling with older kids often means navigating different sleep schedules and energy peaks. Teens may want to stay up late and sleep in, while young adults might need alone time to recharge. Building flexibility into your plans helps everyone feel comfortable and rested. The Sleep Foundation explains how adolescent and young adult sleep patterns can shape daily routines.

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18. Share the Food Adventure

Exploring local cuisine together can turn meals into memorable moments or even laugh-out-loud stories. Letting everyone help choose restaurants or street snacks adds excitement and ownership to the dining experience. As CNN Travel notes, culinary adventures offer a delicious—and sometimes daring—way to bond while traveling.

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19. Capture Candid Moments

The unplanned snapshots—like bursts of laughter or silly mishaps—often hold the most meaning. Focus on capturing genuine, candid moments rather than just posed group photos. For inspiration, National Geographic offers useful tips for documenting family travel in a natural, memorable way.

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20. Appreciate the Journey, Not Just the Destination

Often, the moments between stops—like sharing snacks on a train or swapping stories in the car—become the most treasured memories. Embracing the journey itself brings a sense of togetherness and spontaneity. As Forbes points out, savoring each part of the travel experience transforms simple transitions into meaningful family time.

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Conclusion

Traveling with grown or nearly grown kids is an adventure all its own, marked by shifting roles and deepening connections. By embracing flexibility, open communication, and a sense of humor, families can turn every trip—no matter how imperfect—into lasting memories. Treasure the laughter, learn from the bumps, and celebrate experiences both big and small. So go ahead—plan that next journey and discover how travel can bring your family closer than ever.

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