3 Tips For Taking A Fall Family Vacation

Summer is quickly coming to an end, but that doesn't mean your vacation time has to. In fact, autumn is one of the best times of the year to get away. And if you're one of the 62% of people who feel grateful for their children and family, what better way to share that appreciation than with a family vacation this autumn?

Compared to summer, the weather is usually mild and pleasant during the fall and tourist destinations aren't as crowded. That means you can enjoy the great outdoors without sweating the day away and still have time to get in some fun shopping.

But before you head out on a colorful and cool family vacation this fall, here are some tips to remember to make sure everyone has a blast.

Pick a destination that's gorgeous in fall

One of the biggest perks of traveling during autumn is that you and your family get to enjoy all the beautiful fall foliage. And while some vacation destinations are beautiful on their own (the island of Oahu in Hawaii is 597 square miles of incredible views), others are definitely an experience during this colorful season.

For instance, up to 52% of Alaska's acreage is wilderness, making it a great place to explore wildlife, hike, and see gorgeous fall foliage all in one place. Other great destinations for fall include Cape May, NJ; Savannah, GA; and Katy Trail, Missouri.

Decide whether you're taking your pets

For families with cats and other pets that don't so well with travel, it's a good idea to have a plan to have someone stay over and watch your furry friends while you're away. But if you have a dog who loves to walk along the trails, you may be unsure whether or not to take them with you.

If you do decide to take your dog along with you on your family vacation, it's important to remember that you'll need to plan ahead for their comfort, too. One in every five dogs over the age of seven has some type of arthritis, which can limit how long they can walk with you on the hiking trail.

You'll also need to bring extra food and water when you leave the campsite, dog-friendly hotel, or cabin. That said, ask yourself whether traveling with your dog and your kids is something you and your partner have the energy for.

Snack on healthy foods that are in season

According to a study by the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, consumers cut back on unhealthy food options by 13% after reading food labels. While it's true that eating healthy foods and snacks while on your vacation is better for everyone, especially kids, healthy foods can often be more expensive. This can put a strain on your vacation budget.

But the good news is that autumn is the harvest season, which means there are plenty of healthy foods that are at a lower price because they're now in season. Apples, carrots, cauliflower, celery, grapes, pears, and more fruits and vegetables make for great in-season snacks to take along with you on your hike or road trip.

Fall is one of the best times of the year to go on a family vacation. The leaves and turning colors, the weather is cool and relatively dry, and the tourist spots you love aren't overcrowded with visitors. By following the tips above, you can ensure your next fall family vacation is a trip to remember.