How to Survive the Family Vacation

It's already February, yet it feels like the Christmas break was just yesterday (well, maybe for some!). That means that families are probably making their plans for the upcoming Spring Break right now, and if you are going home for the holidays, rather than carting yourself off for a week of debauchery in Cancun or Puerto Vallarta, you are definitely going to need some survival tips! As college students that go away to school, we tend to outgrow our families really quickly, which generally means that during the small amount of time that we do spend at home, we tend to lack patience. What you need to remember is that, while you are off having fun at college, and life is changing so dramatically on a daily basis, things at home have probably stayed relatively the same, and your visits home are a welcome change to your family! This isn't to say that the idea of being strapped in a car next to your sister, who's five years your junior, and can't sit still for more than five minutes, sounds like hell on earth! Let's see if we can't give you some tips on making the most out of this precious time.

1) Make time for yourself. Everyone this vacation, is just that, on vacation, which means that this time should be used to get in some relaxation, maybe some adventure, and some alone time. Have an open discussion with everyone in the family about it, and though your parents may object, explain to them that you can give more of yourself when you don't feel so stressed out and pressured to spend time with everyone.

2) Keep Busy! When you are together in one big group, try and keep the activity level up, that way, there is little chance of family members getting bored, cranky and starting a quarrel. And do things that no one in the family has done before. Sharing in new experiences facilitates bonding, and it creates fabulous new memories that you can all look back on and cherish.

3) Carve out some one-on-one time with each family member. If you've been away for a long time (or even a short time) your absence can be really difficult for each member of the family. Pick an activity or place that you want to go with them, and have a chat, have a giggle, have a meal. It will give you a chance to catch up, and find out how they're coping with life in general. These are some of the most precious moments, and sadly, we don't seem to get enough of them.

Family vacations can be stressful, but they don't have to be. Having a candid conversation with your parents about what your expectations are for your holiday, will help them to make it a better experience for the whole family. After all, they love you and just want you to be happy.