How to take a holiday with teenagers (and retain your sanity)
Travelling with teenagers can be a minefield – too many rules or too much structure, and the complaints never stop; too few activities and boredom sets in causing them to retreat behind their screens! On the other hand, too much freedom, and you risk barely seeing them, let alone bonding as a family.
But according to Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts and father of a teen and tween, the key to a successful family holiday isn’t about keeping your teenagers entertained every second – it’s about giving them space while making time for meaningful shared experiences that strengthen your connection.
Based on his own experiences, Lamont shares his top tips:
Involve them in the planning
Give your teenagers a sense of ownership by involving them in the trip planning process and decision-making. Let them suggest places to visit or activities to try.
Make the journey part of the fun
Road trips can be the most painful part of a holiday. Let the kids take charge of the playlist and choose roadside stops, even if it means a detour, as it adds an element of adventure and fun to the journey.
If you can’t beat them, join them
Teenagers love Instagram-worthy moments, and while parents may be tempted to resist this obsession with social media, embracing it can lead to planning activities that create memorable experiences everyone can enjoy and share.
Teens still love to play – so play with them
They may act cool, but teenagers are kids at heart and given the chance still enjoy having some fun with mom and dad. Playing pool or darts, tennis doubles, fun games in the pool, and card or board games are great ways to bond.
Give them some independence
Teenagers want some freedom, and a holiday is the perfect chance to let them have it—within limits and age-dependent. Choose resorts like Magalies Park, Breakers Resort, or Hermanus Beach Club, where they can safely explore on their own.
Make it about experiences
Dragging teens from one tourist attraction to another is a recipe for boredom. Instead, mix it up with experiences like zip-lining, visiting a water park, quad biking, or kayaking, along with fun evenings like a DIY pizza competition.
First Group Hotels and Resorts, www.firstgroup-sa.co.za
