Family vacation ideas: where to go and how to prepare

Publication date: 30-10-2026

A family of two adults and two children packing a suitcase before a trip

Exploring new places with your children gives you the chance to share experiences and make memories together. As you consider where to go, think about the kids’ ages, what everyone enjoys, how much you want to spend and whether a Canadian getaway or a trip overseas appeals to your family. 

 

Need ideas for a weekend escape or a longer vacation? These destinations and planning tips can help you put together a trip that suits everyone. 

Key takeaways

  • Choose a destination and activities that suit your children’s ages, everyone’s interests, and your budget.
  • Balance sightseeing with downtime, leaving room for some spontaneity.
  • Before travelling outside Ontario, check your travel insurance coverage, even if you’re staying in Canada.

Where to take the kids in Canada

The Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick

New Brunswick for a seaside getaway

 

Build a New Brunswick getaway around the coast: spend time playing on Parlee Beach, then head out to discover the region’s impressive tides. From campsites to hotels and cottage rentals, there are plenty of ways to stay. Map out your trip based on the sights your family wants to experience. 

 

Planning to see the tides? Look up the local schedule and visitor guidelines beforehand. When travelling with little ones, try to avoid too many accommodation changes and give yourselves room to take each day as it comes. 

 

Best for: Outdoorsy families keen to visit a different Canadian province. 

 

Don’t miss: Spending a day on the sand at Parlee Beach.

 

💡Tip: Even for travel within Canada, it’s worth checking your travel insurance before you leave Ontario. 

Discover the night sky at Mont-Mégantic

 

For a family escape to Quebec, Mont-Mégantic offers a mix of exploring the great outdoors and astronomy. Plan around activities your children will enjoy, and confirm availability before booking a place to stay. 

 

Best for: Families who enjoy being outside and want to learn something new about space. 

 

Don’t miss: An evening astronomy program at the ASTROLab in Mont-Mégantic National Park. Outdoor stargazing depends on the weather, so pack warm layers and consider a slower morning if the kids stay up late.

The Mont-Mégantic observatory at night beneath the Milky Way

Related reading: 5 Canadian Winter Getaways Worth the Trip 

Family-friendly places to explore abroad

Thinking of travelling beyond Canada with the kids? Start by looking at flight times, how you’ll get around once you arrive and the types of accommodation available. Before booking, review the latest Government of Canada travel advice and advisories for your destination.

The ancient city of Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Italy: history, food, and family adventures

 

For families who enjoy venturing through history and enjoying a great meal, Italy has plenty to offer. Mix cultural attractions with leisurely strolls and stops for delicious eats to keep the itinerary enjoyable for all ages. 

 

Travelling by train between Florence, Venice and Rome can turn getting from one city to another into part of the fun. You can also keep things simple: pick just a couple of destinations and spend more time exploring each one. 

 

Best for: Families who love to learn, especially those travelling with school-aged kids or teens. 

 

Don’t miss: Exploring the ruins of Pompeii for a memorable history lesson. French-language audio guides are available, with options for different ages. 

Japan: a trip beyond the familiar 

 

If your family is ready for a long-haul journey and a truly unique experience, Japan may be a great fit. As you plan, research the prices of places to stay, local transportation, and attractions to build a realistic budget. 

 

Rather than filling your first day with activities, allow time to recover from the journey and the jetlag. A slower start gives everyone a chance to settle in before you begin exploring. 

 

Best for: Families comfortable travelling long distances and taking time to adjust on arrival. 

Don’t miss: Visiting a teamLab exhibition in Tokyo or Osaka. Confirm the location and entry arrangements before you book.

Cherry blossoms in front of Mount Fuji in Japan
A sloth hanging from a branch in the Costa Rican jungle

Costa Rica: wildlife and tropical landscapes

 

With its exceptional biodiversity, Costa Rica is well suited to families who want to discover nature and unwind. Depending on your preferences, you could choose an all-inclusive stay or a multi-stop itinerary. 

 

Choose activities based on each child’s abilities and interests. For younger children, opt for shorter outings and schedule breaks. For more demanding activities, check minimum age requirements, participation conditions and safety instructions before booking. 

 

💡 Tip: The Government of Canada warns travellers to Costa Rica about petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching. Consider adding Baggage coverage to your travel insurance for compensation if your personal belongings are stolen, subject to your policy terms. 

 

Best for: Families who want to alternate exploring with downtime. 

 

Don’t miss: Exploring Diamante Adventure Park, which offers a wildlife sanctuary, a cultural experience and ziplining. 

Packing for a family trip: what you’ll need

The most helpful packing list is one that reflects where you’re going, the expected weather, and your children’s individual needs. Focus on keeping must-have items close at hand rather than trying to pack for every possible scenario. 

  • Important documents: Bring the identification and travel paperwork you need, along with booking confirmations and essential contact information. Store copies apart from the originals.
  • Insurance details: Have your travel insurance policy number, provincial health cards, and travel assistance contact information readily available.
  • Health essentials: Include required medications, relevant prescriptions, and a few first-aid basics. Check medication rules for the country you’re visiting. For example, Japan restricts certain medications commonly used for ADHD; consult the Government of Canada’s guidance for details.
  • Practical clothing: Pack layers, comfortable footwear and outfits suited to your plans. Keep spare clothes in your carry-on in case checked baggage is delayed or goes missing.

Let children help with the preparations in ways that suit their age. They might choose a travel game or tick items off a packing list, giving them a role with the trip planning that’s suitable for them. 

Travel insurance for family vacations at home and abroad

Travel insurance can help your family prepare for unexpected disruptions, whether you’re staying in Canada or going overseas. Depending on your coverage, it may help with emergency medical costs as well as situations such as:

Before you leave, check the insurance you already have and consider whether additional coverage makes sense for your family. Make sure that each traveller is insured for the places you’ll visit, the length of the trip, and the activities on your itinerary. 

 

Review the policy terms carefully, including coverage limits and exclusions. Knowing what’s included is another way to head off surprises while travelling.