As kids grow into teens and young adults, family holidays often become a harder sell. They’ve got social lives, part-time jobs, study pressures, and their own sense of independence.
But when you realise you might only have a handful of chances left to travel together as an immediate family, it makes those trips more meaningful than ever. So, how do you convince your teenagers and adult-ish kids to hit the road (or skies) with you without the eye-rolls or resistance?
Here are five key tips that can make all the difference:
- Involve Them in the Planning
Teenagers and young adults are far more likely to be enthusiastic if they feel like they’ve got a say. Rather than dictating the itinerary, make it a collaborative project. Ask them where they’d love to go, what experiences they’re curious about, and what’s on their travel bucket list. Even if it’s just one or two days of the trip dedicated to their interests—like surfing a particular beach, visiting a city they’ve seen on TikTok, or eating their way through a night market—it gives them a reason to be excited. When they feel like it’s their trip too, it’s no longer a chore.
- Pick the Right Timing
Teens often juggle exams, jobs, or uni breaks. Avoid planning during high-pressure periods or when all their friends are home for the summer. Instead, sync up with their quieter windows. Consider shorter getaways if a longer holiday clashes with their schedules. Sometimes, a well-timed long weekend can feel just as special as a two-week epic.
- Set the Tone (Not the Rules)
Nobody—especially not teens—wants to feel like they’re being dragged back to their childhood days. Ditch the rigid schedules and embrace a more relaxed, flexible style of travel. Allow for downtime, solo moments, and, yes, time on their phones. The goal is connection, not control. When you let go of trying to make everything ‘perfect’ or ‘just like the old days,’ you create space for new types of memories to unfold naturally.
- Appeal to Their Sense of Nostalgia
Teenagers may act cool and distant, but most still carry a soft spot for childhood memories. Mention how much it meant to you when they were little, or bring up a specific holiday tradition that you’d love to do “one more time.” This can tap into a sense of sentimentality and remind them why these trips matter—not just to you, but to all of you as a family.
- Emphasise the Bigger Picture
Be honest. Let them know this might be one of the last few times you’re all together before life changes again—whether that’s uni interstate, partners in the picture, or work pulling everyone in different directions. Most kids, even the fiercely independent ones, understand the value of shared moments when they see the full context. Framing it as a chance to create lasting memories—rather than just another family obligation—can help them see the trip as something meaningful.
In the end, the secret to successful family holidays isn’t about the destination—it’s about the intention. Show your kids that it’s not about ticking boxes but about spending time with the people who’ve shaped their world.
When they feel seen, heard, and respected, they’re much more likely to say yes to the journey.
If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.
This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.
(Feedsy Exclusive)