I have spent almost every summer vacation at the beach in South Texas since I was about 6 years old. I think my experiences as both a child and adult have allowed me a special glimpse into what makes for a fun trip for everyone. Both my childhood family trips and the ones I take now with David's entire family have always been multi-family events. This can lead to quite a lot of chaos and a bit of organizing really helps to have an enjoyable week. Usually what happens is we don't hit our stride until about the fourth day and by then the trip is almost over. I thought I would write down my discoveries for a fun vacation both to remind myself and as helpful hints for anyone embarking on a beach vacation with their families. Now, some of these are fairly specific to Gulf Coast trips, as it is extremely hot and sunny. If you are vacationing up on the East Coast you probably don't have to worry about all of the heat issues as much. My biggest tip though? Remember to enjoy yourself. This sounds easy, but you are there to be with your family in a relaxing setting. Make sure you take time to just chill out!
- Pick out the clothes you are going to take and then put back half of them. You will end up wearing the same thing over and over, leaving most of it in the suitcase.
- Don't bother taking nice outfits. They will be replaced with flip flops every time.
- Go to bed relatively early. It is worth it to be able to wake up with the sun.
- Use a cover up that looks like a dress. You will be able to stay in it most all day and not feel like you are walking around in your bathing suit.
- Every morning pack the cooler for lunch. Then you can take it down to the beach or pool and not have to go back up for provisions.
- Make sure the cooler can be pulled easily by everyone, not just big strong guys.
- Take playing cards.
- Pack a few pool-side activities for the kids. Although adults are happy resting by the water, most kids find this boring. When they need a shade break, have things for them to do like watercolors.
- If, like me, you don't normally use disposable cups and plates make sure you pack a picnic set. You can't use glass by most pools, so some washable dishes that won't break would be indispensable.
- Adapt your make-up...you won't want to wear normal foundation and such in the humid heat. Use a tinted moisurizer, lipgloss, and mascara. you will be so sunkissed already that you won't need much.
- Through experience I have discovered that the only fabric that will truly keep you cool(ish) in south Texas is linen. Leave all other clothes behind.
- Plan meals AROUND the best times to be outside. I highly recommend what our family calls Lupper...have the family meal of the day around 4pm. It is late lunch/early dinner. This will make it possible to be out at the beach for the evening when the weather is best. Don't try for big breakfasts...they occur during the best morning hours outside. Opt for self-serve fruit, bread, cereal.
- I highly recommend audiobooks. I download them to my ipod through my library. You can keep an eye on the kids while "reading" your book. Also, I have a hard time looking at those bright pages in the sun.
- Don't forget about the heat of the day. From noon to 4pm it really is best to go indoors. Resist the urge to be out all day. This is when most burns happen and the kids will end up exhausted. I like to find a shady spot for lunch and then head in. The girls take a somewhat forced nap that is very needed. You now can relax and prepare Lupper. Once the kids wake up and eat they will be ready to head back out.
- If vacationing with a big family, try to keep the week's activities as open as possible. Kids of different ages need different downtimes. I recommend planning certain group activities weeks in advance and sending the itenerary to everyone. Most people do better if they know the plan in advance. Talk about when "family time" should be. Will you all spend your evenings at the beach together? If there is a mix between free time and planned events, families are able to find a rythem that works for them.
