Safe Winter Family Vacations

family on winter vacation — Photo by New Africa/shutterstock

This past year has been challenging to say the least. If you’re in the position to do so, you and your family probably want to plan a getaway. Luckily, you can still plan a vacation while following COVID-19 mandates.

Here are ideas to consider.

Take a National Park Road Trip

There’s never been a better opportunity to take a family road trip. This idea can happen in compliance with COVID-19 guidelines, so you’ll be able to enjoy yourself while everyone stays safe. Where should you go? It’s prime time to visit a few national parks.

Here’s what to remember as you map out your vacation:

Consider renting a minivan, SUV or RV for more space.
Use various websites and apps to find unpopulated campgrounds.
Remember to account for the weather.
Bring enough clean masks and hand sanitizer to last your stay.
Pick socially-distanced activities.

Keep in mind that each national park has different rules and regulations regarding COVID-19. These guidelines are always changing, so you need to stay updated. Plan your road trip around your destination’s recommendations for the safest experience.

Read Next | Fun Outdoor Activities in the Winter

Explore the Outdoors

Grab your winter gear and bundle up to brave cold temperatures. Escaping to the mountains may be exactly what you and your family need. Mountains are operating at reduced capacity to make ski vacations safe for families. Wearing masks are a must and be prepared to limit time lodge time. Some mountains have creative options for outdoor dining, including campfires and private cabanas. Find an area with ice skating and tubing to give little ones a variety of activity options.

Rent a Cabin

It’s probably long past time to get your restless family out of the house. Airlines have limited scheduled flights by more than 50%, so you might want to remain close to home. That’s why a cabin rental might just be the cure for everyone’s cabin fever.

Whether you live in the Northeast or the West, you have options. Try an online search to turn up options near you. This vacation will be a memorable weekend getaway for you and your family.

Head to the Lake or Ocean

If you want to escape the cold weather, you’re not alone. However, you need to be cautious as you plan a lake or ocean vacation. States like Georgia and Florida have been notorious COVID-19 hotspots, so you should make special plans before you leave.

Consider a few points before you hit the water:

Stay in a vacation property to limit interactions with others.
Follow COVID-19 mandates so that you stay safe — and don’t put locals at risk.
Order takeout from nearby restaurants to eat in your vacation home.
Keep masks handy even when you’re on the beach.
Rent a boat or kayaks to explore the area at a social distance.

If you want to visit a small coastal area, you need to remember to be respectful. These communities aren’t just tourist towns. Therefore, you should do everything you can to make your stay as safe as possible.

Explore Wine Country

Did you have a European vacation planned for 2020 or 2021? If so, you might need to wait a while to make the journey — but you can enjoy some stateside alternatives instead. There are possibilities both adults and kids will love.

Destinations like Sonoma and Napa Valley are iconic. However, you don’t have to travel to California to have fun. Many top vineyards exist throughout the U.S. — and because you’re traveling during wintertime, you can experience red wine season at the best time.

These wineries often have villas and cottages you can rent with access to amenities like hot tubs, tennis courts and more. How does a scenic bike ride sound? This trip can be relaxing and adventurous for the entire family.

Get Away With Your Family This Winter

It might take some extra planning, but you and your family can still take a memorable trip. Be sure to follow COVID-19 guidelines to keep everyone safe. These ideas can help you map out a fun vacation.

Cora’s passion is to inspire others to live a happy, healthful, and mindful life through her words on Revivalist – wholeheartedly convincing them that everyday moments are worth celebrating. Cora has spent 5+ years writing for numerous lifestyle sites – hence her sincere love for both life and the beauty of style in all things. Keep up with Cora on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.

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