Ask everyone for one must-do

Give each traveler, whatever their age, one thing that is theirs to choose. It builds excitement early and means each person has a moment to look forward to.

Plan one anchor a day

One main activity per day leaves room for naps, playgrounds and long lunches. Tired travelers enjoy very little, however good the itinerary looks.

Choose stays that give you space

Connecting rooms, suites and apartments make early bedtimes easier. A kitchen or a pool can also rescue a slow afternoon.

Mix together time with time apart

Not every moment needs the whole group. Let teenagers join a surf lesson while others take a market tour, then swap stories at dinner.

The best family trips leave room for the unplanned. Build in some slack, and the memories tend to take care of themselves.