From a mom of two teens who’s learned that a little strategy goes a long way
Family travel looks a lot different than it did a few years ago, especially when you’re traveling with kids and teens. Between growth spurts, sports schedules, and a constant need for snacks and space, the key to a great family vacation this year is being practical, prepared, and smart about your benefits.
Whether you’re cruising, heading to an all‑inclusive resort, or loading up the car for a road trip, these ten tips will help you save money, reduce stress, and actually enjoy the time together.
1. Ask for the Upgrade. More Space = More Peace
This is one of my biggest pieces of advice, and it costs nothing to ask.
When booking hotels, cruises, or resorts, always ask about:
- Larger rooms or family suites
- Connecting rooms
- Balcony cabins on cruises
- Resort rooms closer to pools or dining
AAA members often receive priority for upgrades or preferred room locations through AAA’s preferred hotel and cruise partners. A little extra space can make mornings smoother, bedtimes calmer, and everyone far happier.
2. Use a AAA Travel Advisor (Seriously, Don’t DIY Everything)
Family trips have a lot of moving parts. Flights change. Weather happens. Kids get sick.
A AAA Travel Advisor:
- Finds the best value, not just the lowest price
- Combines AAA-exclusive rates with current sales
- Advocates for you if something goes wrong
That peace of mind is invaluable when traveling with kids, and it’s part of your membership.
3. Cruises Are Built for Families (and Budget Predictability)
Cruises remain one of the most practical family vacations this year.
Why families love cruising:
- Meals, entertainment, and activities included
- Teen clubs and kid programs = built‑in independence
- No daily decision fatigue about where to eat
AAA members often receive onboard credits, which can be used for shore excursions, specialty dining, or spa treatments. These little extras that make the trip feel special without increasing your budget.
4. All‑Inclusive Resorts = Fewer Decisions, Fewer Surprises
If your goal is to truly relax, all‑inclusive resorts are hard to beat.
Look for:
- Family or junior suites
- Included non‑motorized water sports
- Teen programs (especially for ages 12–17)
With AAA, many all‑inclusive stays come with added amenities or exclusive rates, and your advisor can steer you away from resorts that look good online but don’t truly deliver for families.
5. Road Trips are still a great option
Road trips are practical, flexible, and often more affordable for families.
AAA makes them even better with:
- Gas discounts at participating stations
- Hotel savings along your route
- Roadside assistance if something unexpected happens
Pro tip: Build in one “unexpected stop” each day—a roadside attraction, local diner, or short hike. Those moments often become the best memories.
6. Use AAA Discounts Beyond Travel (They Add Up Fast)
Many families don’t realize how far AAA benefits go.
Your membership can save you on:
- Theme park tickets
- Attractions and tours
- Dining discounts
- Retail and entertainment
When traveling with teens who eat constantly, dining discounts alone can make a noticeable difference in your vacation budget.
7. Rental Cars: Bigger Is Usually Better
If you’re debating between “making it work” and upgrading to a larger vehicle—upgrade.
More legroom, luggage space, and breathing room make a big difference on long drives. AAA members receive exclusive rental car discounts and additional benefits with preferred partners, making that upgrade more affordable than you might think.
8. Travel Slightly Off‑Peak When Possible
Traveling just outside peak season can mean:
- Better pricing
- Fewer crowds
- More flexibility with upgrades
AAA Travel Advisors track trends and can recommend the best travel windows, especially helpful for families working around school calendars.
9. Let Kids Choose One Thing (Each)
This tip works wonders, especially with teens.
Each family member chooses:
- One activity
- One excursion
- One meal or experience
When kids feel heard, they’re more engaged—and far less likely to complain. It also turns the trip into a shared experience rather than a parent‑planned itinerary.
10. Protect Your Trip, and Your Sanity
Family travel is an investment. Protect it.
Travel insurance, professional advocacy, and working with a trusted brand like AAA means:
- Support if plans change
- Help during delays or cancellations
- Someone on your side when things don’t go as planned
With AAA, you’re never navigating issues alone and that matters when you’re responsible for everyone else’s vacation happiness.
Why AAA Travel Makes Family Travel Better
At the end of the day, family travel isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection. AAA Travel helps families travel smarter, save more, and stress less.
You handle the memories. AAA handles the rest.
