Romantic Family Vacations: How to Get Some 'Us Time' When You've Got the Kids in Tow

Remember back in the day when you and yours were carefree on vacations. You could sleep in. You could hang out. If you wanted to dance the night away while enjoying some fruity cocktails, no problem!

Now that you have kids, that probably seems like another lifetime ago! Now when you plan vacations, you have to find things that will keep them entertained, sleeping late is more of a fantasy than reality. And intimacy? Let’s just say you’ll be lucky if you can get “one good night” in.

If all of this is what you’re thinking about as you’re packing up for a family vacation, please make time to read this in its entirety. We’re about to show you how you can still have a bit of romance, even though you’ve got the kids hanging out with you.

1. Get a suite (or vacation home)

Even if you’re trying to save money, it’s well worth the extra cash to get a suite or a vacation home. Doing this will ensure that everyone gets their own room and space. If you can, get a place that has an upstairs and downstairs. That way, you and your spouse can get some quality time upstairs in while your kids are watching a movie or enjoying pizza downstairs (or vice versa).

2. Take someone along with you

A great idea is to take someone along with you. Not necessarily a nanny (unless you already have one), but how about a family member? Maybe your mom or your mother-in-law or an aunt or uncle who misses the kids, but haven’t seen them in a while. It can be a sentimental gesture for the relative and a fun surprise for your children. Plus, they can serve as babysitter if you want to go out one night. Or two.

3. Put your kids on a sleep schedule

Don’t think that just because your kids are on vacation that there’s something wrong with putting them on a sleep schedule. Even if you want to extend the time an hour or two, they still need their rest. If they’re tucked in (or at least in their rooms) by 9:30-10pm, that gives you and your spouse a few hours to relax alone.

4. Have dinner at a different time

When it’s a family vacation, it’s a nice idea to eat dinner together as a family. At the same time, remember that you’ll probably be spending more time with your kids than usual which means you can have breakfast and lunch altogether too. So, if you want to serve them dinner at 6 and then wait to have a romantic meal together once they’re in bed, that can give you something extra special to look forward to.

5. Go on a couple of dates (alone)

Plan fun activities for the children, sure. Just don’t forget to include yourselves on the list of things to do. Look for a club or restaurant where the two of you can go out on a date. Even just one night alone together will do a world of good. (This is another reason to bring someone along with you.)

6. Get up really early or go to bed really late

You might think “Get up early?!” but yes, it’s a great idea. Remember, you don’t HAVE to do anything while you’re on vacation. So, if the two of you want to take in a sunrise alone on a deck while the kids are still knocked out, that can be a special moment. Or you can stay up until midnight and take a walk outside. Family vacations can still have romance. You just need to make a creative plan. It’s all good.