Fun (and Sanity) with the Family in Florida

Traveling with the kids seems like such a grand idea when you’re planning a trip. Oh, the memories they’ll make, the things they’ll learn and see, and all the photo opportunities for this year’s holiday cards. Then, the reality sets in… Can they sit still for the car or plane ride without totally melting down, will there be Wi-Fi available for all the streaming shows while waiting on the plane/restaurants/car rides, and will there be a nice, quiet night of rest when you arrive.

It’s a gamble on how the ride will go. A sure bet, for both your money and peace of mind, is a vacation rental home. Florida is a prime spot for traveling families, and you won’t regret renting a house. Your whole family can feel right at home immediately, as opposed to a busy, noisy hotel room.

Must-Have Gear for Visiting Florida

When you get to the rental, there will be places around to get your necessities for going to the beach or the theme park. Here’s some suggestions to grab at the shop or grocery store. Bug spray or bug bands are needed as much as sunscreen, especially at sunset. Those legends of Florida’s super-sized mosquitos are no joke. You’ll need sand toys and shovels that won’t break the bank, because they will probably be forgotten or lost at the beach. Extra flip flops or water shoes so little feet can get around the beach or pool safely.

Surprisingly, some food and beverage items are allowed in Florida’s theme parks, like Disney and Universal Studios Orlando. Check out the restrictions and make sure you pack some noshes for your hangry troupe before you go to keep everyone from imploding at the park.

Beachy Fun

Going to the beach? It’s simply not at day at the beach without a family style picnic. Drop by the local Publix and get something for everyone to enjoy. There are cabana type umbrella vendors on nearly every public beach, so take advantage of them. You won’t want to haul your own beach umbrella or risk getting a bad sunburn. Also, bring a long-range squirt gun for any unwanted pelican attention when you break that food out. The kids will love it.

Back at the Temporary Homestead

When you’re traveling, some of the amenities at a standard hotel are completely sub-par. No more than two towels upon arrival, a measly microwave, and the annoying fact of trying to cut anything with a plastic utensil. Not to mention the noisy party across the hall or the lack of available space for the kids to spread out and play. Thankfully, your vacation rental home should have the towels, fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and clothes dryer as well as room to spread out. All you’ll need to think about is stocking the fridge, getting some rest, and taking those pictures.

Make your Florida family vacation as effortless as possible with a vacation home rental. It’s the easier than getting the family to agree on what to see or do first.