Are you a teenager looking for an exciting and memorable holiday with your mates? Or are you a parent seeking to create lifelong memories with your kids before they fly the coop?
In this article, Wyld Family Travel will explore the best holidays for teenagers, including activity-packed options that cater to their interests and energy levels.
Top Family Holidays for Teenagers
Holidays with teenagers are best during the summer months (except for skiing and snowboarding trips) when families with nature lovers can hit the beach or the mountains without worrying about the weather.
- Summer Camps: A classic choice for teens, summer camps offer a range of activities, from adventure sports to creative pursuits. Many camps focus on specific interests, such as music, dance, or art, giving teens the chance to hone their skills and meet other kids who share their passions.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes with your teenager for the fun and excitement of carving up the mountain on a family holiday. Many ski resorts offer adventurous families teen-specific programs, including lessons, gear hire, and social events where they can meet new mates. This is one of the top picks for active families.
- Music Festivals: Get your teenager’s music fix at a festival like Glastonbury, Coachella, or Tomorrowland. These events offer a unique opportunity to see their favourite artists perform live and experience the vibe of a music festival.
- Adventure Holidays: For thrill-seekers looking for the best holiday, consider family holidays that combine adventure sports like rock climbing, white-water rafting, sea kayaking or zip-lining. These activities promote teamwork, trust, and personal growth while having a wow factor.
- Cruise Holidays for teenagers: A cruise is an excellent way to relax and enjoy quality family time. Many cruise lines (Carnival Cruises have a teen program for 12-17-year-olds) offer programs for teens on board, including activities, entertainment, and social events. This is the perfect combo for kids and parents on a family holiday. There’s no excuse why you can’t have a blast with teenagers on a cruise.
One of our favourite holiday adventure moments was climbing the ruins of a 2000-year-old fortress in Kotor, Montenegro.
Teenage Activity Holidays for the adventurous family
Adventure holidays with teenagers come in all shapes and sizes. They can include a few days, with activities like white water rafting or horse riding, and the rest of the holiday can be chillin’ with fun stuff like mini golf and movies.
- Surfing and Beach Holidays: Catch some waves and soak up the sun on a beach during the summer holidays. Family holiday destinations like Hawaii or Costa Rica offer surfing lessons and other water sports.
- Hiking and Trekking: Explore the great outdoors in National Parks with your teenager on a hiking or trekking holiday. These activities promote physical fitness, teamwork, and connect with nature like never before.
- Cooking and Food Holidays: Discover new cuisines and cooking techniques on a food family holiday. A few countries, such as Italy or Thailand, offer cooking classes and food-related activities for the whole family to enjoy.
- Sports Holidays: If your teenager is a sports nut, consider a holiday that’s all about their favourite sport, like footy, hoops, mountain biking or tennis. There are heaps of options out there that’ll get them excited about playing the game they love.
- Volunteer Holidays: Give back to the community and make a real difference on a volunteer holiday. There are heaps of organizations out there that offer teen-specific small group programs, like conservation, education, and community development projects, that’ll get you giving back and having a memorable time.
Our daughter Willow participated in a volunteer program at an elephant conservation park in Thailand. It was a great introduction to this type of holiday.
Tips for Planning a Family Activity Holiday with Teens
Planning can make or break holidays with teenagers.
- Involve Your Teen: Get your teenager’s input on the holiday destination and activities to make sure they’re excited and involved. Ask them what they’re keen on doing and where they’d love to go, and make sure you’re all on the same page.
- Choose a Destination with Teen-Friendly Activities: Select a destination that offers a range of activities and amenities catering to teenagers, such as water parks, game arcades, shopping opportunities and more.
- Consider a Teen-Specific Program: Many holiday companies offer teen-specific programs that are packed with activities, entertainment, and social events. These programs are a great way to ensure your teenager has a fun and memorable experience
- Plan for Downtime: Make sure to leave some downtime and relaxation in your holiday schedule to give your teenager a chance to unwind and recharge. This will help them enjoy the experience and make the most of their time off.
- Pick the right accommodation: When choosing a place to stay, consider the location and facilities that cater to families. Think about what’s important to you and your teenager, such as a private pool, proximity to beautiful beaches, or easy access to public transport. Also, make sure it has reliable Wi-Fi and is close to amenities like restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Additionally, consider the cost and whether it’s within your budget. Choosing a place that meets your needs can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone.”
In Ho Chi Minh City, we picked an apartment across the road from a park to get outdoors and have some space.
Family holidays for teenagers can be an incredible way to create lifelong memories and promote personal growth.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, there’s a holiday option that caters to every teenager’s unique interests and energy levels. By involving your teenager in the planning process and choosing a destination with teen-friendly activities, you’ll create a memorable holiday experience that everyone will cherish.
If you’re looking for more ideas, we have a great article that has 58 great ideas for buying experiences for teens as gifts.
The key to a successful family holiday is finding a balance of activities that appeal to each family member’s interests and preferences.
We hope this article from Wyld Family Travel inspires you to plan a holiday with teenagers.
Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations, working out a budget, deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials, and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best travel tips is essential.
Our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides have you covered! With insights from around the globe, these guides will spark inspiration for your next family vacation, making it an epic adventure with your teens.
- Travel for Teens Americas
- Travel for Teens in Europe
- Travel with Teens in Asia
- Travel Teens in Australasia
- Travel Teens in the Middle East
- Travel teen’s tips, tricks and advice