Top Tips for Planning a Multi-Family-Friendly Airbnb Trip
Are you considering a vacation with multiple families and kids? Planning a group getaway can be both exciting and challenging.
Instead of just trying to juggle your own family, you now have to consider the wants and needs of the others tagging along too! Even though it takes a little extra effort, it’s also such a fun time and creates lasting memories for all involved.
So if you’re planning a multi-family vacation, keep reading for some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Airbnb trip with several families and children.
6 Top Tips For Planning a Multi-Family-Friendly Airbnb Trip
1. Choose a Family-Friendly Location
When selecting your Airbnb destination, opt for a location that offers kid-friendly activities and amenities. Look for properties close to parks, beaches, or attractions that cater to children's interests.
Top Picks for Multi-Family Travel
1. Naples, Florida
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens: A wonderful zoo with a variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: A pristine beach ideal for swimming, picnicking, and shelling.
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon: A family-friendly water park with slides, a lazy river, and a splash playground.
If you're traveling to Southwest Florida, don't miss my blog, Discovering Southwest Florida: A Family Adventure Guide Featuring Top Restaurant Recommendations. This guide is packed with fun activities for all ages and the best dining spots to make your trip relaxing and unforgettable.
2. San Diego, California
San Diego Zoo: One of the most famous zoos in the world with a vast array of animals.
LEGOLAND California: A theme park perfect for younger children, with rides, shows, and LEGO-themed attractions.
Balboa Park: Museums, gardens, and cultural institutions all in one place.
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Geysers and Hot Springs: Old Faithful and other geothermal features.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see bison, elk, and even bears.
Outdoor Activities: Hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the park.
4. Grand Canyon, Arizona
South Rim: Most accessible and family-friendly part of the Grand Canyon.
Junior Ranger Program: Educational activities for kids.
Hiking Trails: Suitable for all ages and skill levels.
5. Maui, Hawaii
Beaches: Family-friendly beaches with calm waters.
Haleakalā National Park: Sunrise views and easy hikes.
Maui Ocean Center: Interactive exhibits and marine life.
6. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Family-friendly hiking and wildlife viewing.
Dollywood: Theme park in nearby Pigeon Forge, TN.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies: Located in Gatlinburg, TN, with interactive exhibits and marine life.
7. San Francisco, California
Golden Gate Park: Playgrounds, gardens, and museums.
Exploratorium: Hands-on science museum great for kids.
Fisherman's Wharf: Family-friendly attractions, sea lions, and boat tours to Alcatraz Island.
8. Asheville, North Carolina
Biltmore Estate: America’s largest home with gardens and outdoor activities.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Scenic drives and hiking trails.
Western North Carolina Nature Center: Wildlife exhibits and interactive experiences.
9. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston Children's Museum: Interactive exhibits and educational fun.
New England Aquarium: Marine life exhibits and a giant ocean tank.
Freedom Trail: Historical walking tour that's educational and engaging for families.
These destinations offer diverse educational, adventurous, and entertaining activities for families with children of all ages.
If you're planning a trip to Boston, check out my comprehensive guide on How to Spend a Weekend in Boston with Kids.
2. Accommodation Selection
Prioritize accommodations that can comfortably house all families together. Look for properties with separate sleeping areas for adults and children and communal spaces for group activities.
When booking accommodations on Airbnb to host several families and children, finding specific features that ensure comfort, safety, and convenience is crucial.
Here are the top 5 things to consider:
1. Space and Layout
Multiple Bedrooms: Ensure there are enough bedrooms and beds to accommodate all families comfortably. Look for properties with bunk beds, sofa beds, or additional sleeping arrangements if necessary.
Living Areas: Ample common areas such as living rooms, dining rooms, and outdoor spaces where everyone can gather.
Bathrooms: Check for multiple bathrooms to prevent morning and evening congestion, especially with children.
2. Family-Friendly Amenities
Kitchen Facilities: A fully equipped kitchen allows for meal preparation, which can save money and cater to children’s dietary needs.
Laundry Facilities: Access to a washer and dryer is essential, especially with young children.
Entertainment Options: Look for properties with toys, games, books, and possibly a game room or entertainment system to keep children occupied.
I wanted to showcase one of our favorite Airbnbs, located in Pocono Pennslyvania. Its it the perfect space for those traveling with children!
Features of the Bunk Room (photo above) at Monarch Cottage:
4-bed bunk room
TV lounge
Popular streaming services
Classic video games
Board games
Books
This space is ideal for multi-families traveling together, offering a range of entertainment options for a large group.
To learn more about The Monarch Cottage, and its owners, Travis and Tenille, be sure to check out our Cozy Cabin Chat interview here.
3. Safety Features
Childproofing: Properties that are child-friendly with safety features like outlet covers, cabinet locks, and stair gates.
Secure Outdoor Areas: Fenced yards or secure outdoor play areas where children can play safely.
First Aid Kit and Emergency Info: Ensure the property has a first aid kit and clear instructions for emergency contacts and procedures.
4. Location
Proximity to Attractions: Choose a location near family-friendly attractions, parks, and activities to minimize travel time.
Safe Neighborhood: Research the safety of the neighborhood, ensuring it’s suitable for families.
Convenience: Access to grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical facilities.
5. Reviews and Ratings
High Ratings: Look for properties with consistently high ratings and positive reviews, particularly from other families.
Host Responsiveness: Reviews that highlight a responsive and helpful host can be very reassuring, especially when traveling with children.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: Ensure reviews indicate that the property is clean and well-maintained, with no recurring issues.
By focusing on these key aspects, you can find accommodations on Airbnb that will provide a comfortable, enjoyable, and safe environment for multiple families traveling together.
3. Communication and Planning
Open communication is key to a successful group trip. To make things easy, create a shared itinerary outlining activities, meal plans, and any essential information help ensure everyone is on the same page and that the trip runs smoothly. Additionally, make sure to discuss expectations and responsibilities to avoid misunderstandings during the trip.
Here are some steps to create an effective shared itinerary:
Steps to Create a Shared Itinerary
Choose a Collaboration Tool:
Use digital tools like Google Docs, Google Sheets, Trello, or specialized trip planning apps like TripIt or Roadtrippers to create and share the itinerary.
Gather Input:
Collect information and preferences from all participants regarding activities, meal plans, and any essential details. This can be done through surveys, group chats, or meetings.
PRO TIP: The Slack app is great for planning a trip because it streamlines communication and organization.
With Slack, you can:
Create Channels: Set up dedicated channels for different aspects of the trip, like activities, meals, and logistics.
Share Documents: Easily upload and share itineraries, packing lists, and other important documents.
Coordinate in Real-Time: Communicate instantly with all participants, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Integrate Tools: Connect other planning tools and apps, like Google Calendar and Trello, for seamless collaboration.
Manage Tasks: Assign tasks and keep track of responsibilities to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Using Slack helps keep all trip-related information in one place, making planning more efficient and less stressful.
Draft the Itinerary:
Dates and Times: List the dates and times for each activity.
Activities: Outline daily activities, including details like meeting points, durations, and any necessary items to bring.
Meal Plans: Plan meal times, locations, and special dietary considerations.
Free Time: Include periods of free time for relaxation or personal activities.
Contact Information: Provide essential contact details for each participant and any important services (e.g., accommodation, local emergency contacts).
Assign Responsibilities:
Clearly define who is responsible for each activity or task, such as meal preparation, transportation arrangements, or activity coordination.
Review and Finalize:
Share the draft itinerary with all participants for feedback. Make necessary adjustments based on their input.
Finalize the itinerary and ensure everyone has access to the latest version.
Update as Needed:
Keep the itinerary flexible. Be prepared to update it based on real-time changes or new information during the trip.
4. Child Safety Measures
Ensure the Airbnb property is child-proofed and safe for children of all ages. Check for potential hazards and discuss safety guidelines with all parents to maintain a secure environment throughout the stay.
5. Entertainment and Activities
Plan a mix of activities that cater to both adults and children. Consider nearby attractions, outdoor adventures, and downtime options for families to relax and bond.
For a list of things to do in the summer, CLICK HERE for the Ultimate Summer Bucket List to incorporate into your travels.
6. Packing Essentials
Encourage families to pack light but include essentials such as snacks, toys, first aid supplies, and any specific items required for children. Coordinate group items to avoid overpacking and maximize space.
This simple first aid pouch from Katie at Paper From Heaven is perfect for traveling. It's compact enough to fit in a backpack or purse, yet holds all the essentials you need on the go. Remember to pack a few basics to get by; if you need more items, you can always find a pharmacy or grocery store!
PRO TIP: Once at the Airbnb, consider purchasing food and larger quantities of snacks to share among the group. This not only reduces the need to pack bulky items but also ensures everyone has what they need for the duration of the stay.
Plan to create a communal shopping list and designate a few people to handle grocery shopping upon arrival.
Here’s a sample list to get you started:
Over the past several years, I've noticed a growing trend of families embracing the "it takes a village" philosophy when raising children by opting for group trips. These trips seek spacious accommodations that cater to both adults and children's needs, reflecting the increasing popularity of family-friendly travel options. This year continues to highlight this trend, with families relying on the support of their "village" to help care for each other's children while traveling together.
Planning a family-friendly Airbnb trip requires thoughtful consideration and proactive organization to ensure a memorable experience for everyone involved. By following these essential tips, you can create an enjoyable vacation that caters to the diverse needs of multiple families and children.
Remember, the key to a successful group trip lies in communication, planning, and flexibility. So go ahead, start coordinating with your fellow travelers, and embark on a fantastic adventure filled with joy and shared moments.
P.S. Looking for more tips for planning your next Airbnb family vacation? Explore the following blogs to help you out:
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