Because not every memory needs to be perfect to be unforgettable.
You’ve planned, packed, and double-checked everything—but real talk: family vacations don’t always go as planned. A delayed flight, a busted stroller, or a sudden fever can turn dream trips into meltdown zones—fast.
But here’s the good news: with a little prep (and a sense of humor), you can turn most disasters into just another part of the story. Sometimes, the moments that go sideways become the ones you remember the most.
Here are 10 things that commonly go wrong on family trips—and how to be totally ready when they do.
1️⃣ The Flight Gets Delayed… or Canceled
What usually happens:
Bored kids. Hangry parents. Zero outlets. Everyone spirals.
What to do instead:
- Always pack one full day’s worth of snacks and entertainment in your carry-on.
- Download offline shows, games, and music before you even leave the house.
- Keep a cheap deck of cards, mini coloring book, or trivia sheets ready to go.
- Have a backup plan for the first night—especially if you’re missing a connection or check-in window.
FVC Tip: Add hotel booking apps (like Hopper or HotelTonight) to your phone just in case you’re stuck overnight.
2️⃣ Someone Gets Sick on Day One
What usually happens:
The trip’s just started, and now someone has a fever, stomach bug, or sinus explosion. Panic. Pharmacy hunt. Lost vacation time.
What to do instead:
- Pack a family-size mini health kit: pain relievers, thermometer, nausea meds, cold meds, band-aids.
- Know where the closest urgent care or pharmacy is—before you need it.
- Bring your insurance info in printed and digital form.
- If it’s not serious, rotate “rest days” and let others still enjoy the area.
FVC Tip: Electrolyte powder packs and instant oatmeal can be lifesavers for sick kids (and tired parents).
3️⃣ The Weather Turns on You
What usually happens:
Forecast said sunny skies—reality says thunderstorm, snow, or 3 days of wind.
What to do instead:
- Always check the hourly weather before you head out—conditions change fast.
- Pack emergency rain gear (compact ponchos, extra socks, and travel umbrellas).
- Have a “bad weather backup plan” for every destination: indoor museums, arcades, aquariums, bookstores, or even the hotel pool.
FVC Tip: Search for “best rainy day activities in [destination]” and save a few in Google Maps before the trip.
4️⃣ The Luggage Doesn’t Make It
What usually happens:
You land. Your bags don’t. And of course, the one with all the kid clothes or medicine is the one that’s missing.
What to do instead:
- Pack one change of clothes for each family member in a carry-on.
- Keep chargers, medication, and comfort items with you, not in checked luggage.
- File the missing bag report before leaving the airport—and snap a photo of your bag beforehand in case they ask for details.
- Ask your airline if they cover toiletries or clothing costs while you wait.
FVC Tip: Use packing cubes inside each suitcase, and color-code by person. If one bag gets lost, you’ll know exactly what’s missing.
5️⃣ The Hotel Isn’t What You Expected
What usually happens:
That “family-friendly resort” turns out to be next to a construction site—or that “spacious suite” is actually a glorified closet.
What to do instead:
- Read reviews carefully and look for patterns (not just star ratings).
- Always confirm reservations by phone 48 hours before check-in.
- Take photos and ask to switch rooms if it’s not what was advertised—especially if you’re missing promised features.
FVC Tip: Book through a travel site with easy cancellation or rebooking options. You’ll have more leverage if something’s not right.
6️⃣ The Kids Start Fighting (A Lot)
What usually happens:
They were fine at the airport, but now that you’re settled in, every activity turns into an argument. Sibling tension’s rising—and so is your stress.
What to do instead:
- Build in downtime and alone time for each child—don’t over-schedule.
- Let each kid choose a “vacation activity” so everyone feels heard.
- Carry a “cool-down kit” with fidget toys, headphones, or a travel journal.
- Give them space when possible—separate beds, personal snack bags, even solo time with a parent.
FVC Tip: Turn recurring squabbles into a game—“Vacation Vibes Points” for good attitudes, redeemable for treats or choosing the next adventure.
7️⃣ The Rental Car Is a Nightmare
What usually happens:
You arrive and the car you reserved is either unavailable or not what you expected. Suddenly, you’re stuck with a tiny car, no GPS, or worse—no car at all.
What to do instead:
- Confirm your car reservation 24 hours before pickup.
- Opt for a full-size SUV or van if traveling with kids and luggage—compact cars are often out of stock.
- Have a backup plan: ride-sharing apps, taxis, or alternative rental services.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade or extra features if the original car is missing amenities.
FVC Tip: Keep a set of essential items in your carry-on (snacks, water bottles, games, charging cables) in case your rental is delayed.
8️⃣ Phone or Tech Breakdowns
What usually happens:
Your phone dies, your tablet cracks, or the Wi-Fi at your destination isn’t up to par, leaving you disconnected and frustrated.
What to do instead:
- Bring extra chargers, a portable power bank, and a power strip.
- Download offline maps, books, or entertainment before you leave.
- Look for local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi hotspots if your connection’s spotty.
- Plan ahead for limited screen time and set a tech-free zone for family bonding.
FVC Tip: Create a tech “recharge plan”—when the device dies, that’s the signal to go outside, play a game, or have a snack break.
9️⃣ Forgetting the Essentials
What usually happens:
In the chaos of packing, you realize you’ve left something important behind—like the baby formula, sunscreen, or all the chargers.
What to do instead:
- Make a checklist (even a digital one) and stick to it for each person.
- Use the packing cubes strategy for a foolproof system.
- Know where the closest store is to buy emergency supplies.
- Keep duplicates of essential items (toothpaste, sunscreen, etc.) in different bags.
FVC Tip: Keep a “vacation essentials” box at home—next time you go, it’s already packed for you.
🔟 The Kids Are Exhausted (and You’re Close to It Too)
What usually happens:
It’s been a fun day, but your kids are tired, cranky, and on the verge of a meltdown. And you? You’re right there with them.
What to do instead:
- Build in “rest periods” throughout the day for downtime or naps, even if it’s just 30 minutes.
- Keep a travel comfort kit for the kids—blanket, favorite snacks, headphones, or a toy they love.
- Adjust the schedule for balance—more low-key days in between busy ones to avoid burnout.
- Don’t be afraid to call it a day early if everyone’s exhausted.
FVC Tip: If everyone’s really fried, do nothing for an hour—sit in a park, go for a walk, or grab ice cream and recharge.
Family vacations are all about memories—the good, the chaotic, and everything in between. Things will go wrong at some point, but how you handle them can turn a potential disaster into just another chapter in your adventure. With a little prep, flexibility, and a healthy sense of humor, you can take on whatever curveballs come your way.
Remember: the best moments often come from the unexpected. So the next time you’re in the midst of a travel hiccup, just know: it’ll make for a great story later—and probably a laugh along the way.
