This post contains a sponsored inclusion of AutoCamp, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board.
"Most people are in one of two camps when it comes to fall: you either switch to pumpkin-flavored everything by mid-August, or you refuse to participate in autumnal celebrations until every single leaf changes color. Seeing as I live in one of the hottest states in the continental U.S., I’m in the second camp. It’s just hard to get in the cozy mood when it’s still 98 degrees in October. But one of the easiest ways to relish in all-things fall—no matter where you live—is by planning a vacation somewhere that does abide by the laws of autumn.
Organizing a vacation with your entire family in tow may not sound like the most relaxing fall vacation. However, it can be a dream with the right amount of preparation, especially when you choose a getaway location that has the perfect amenities for family relaxation (but we’ll get more into that shortly). We took location, attire, gear, and more into consideration to help make planning smooth—keep reading for our top five fall getaway tips.
Choose the perfect family-friendly destination
This one is easy. If you want to nail a vacation with all the fall vibes, then a nature-filled luxury camping experience like AutoCamp is the ideal spot. AutoCamp brings high-end, boutique-style amenities, mid-century modern design, and welcoming hospitality to some of the world’s most beautiful natural places. They have six different locations (and three more coming soon!) at some of the most beautiful places in the country, including a few national parks.
On of our editors, Ally, and her fam of four recently visited AutoCamp’s Cape Cod location and shared her experience. “When we arrived at the property, we immediately noticed how many families were also visiting. My kids instantly ran to the games in the clubhouse and out on the main lawn and happily began exploring. They loved the beautiful nature-inspired playground with swings, a balance beam, and monkey bars and we spent much of the afternoon playing.”
So not only is AutoCamp perfect for kiddos, but you’ll also get to explore and sleep amongst gorgeous landscapes. Every campsite’s amenities are jaw-dropping and guaranteed to suit any family’s camping preference. They have multiple sleeping arrangements available from luxury tents to Airstreams to full-sized cabins. No need to worry about the personal items inevitably forgotten during the rush out the door either as each site has a General Store stocked with essentials that’ll make your trip go as smoothly as possible. Plus, their accommodations include everything a family needs like linens, cookware, and fire pits. Nothing says “cozy fall getaway” more than sitting by the campfire wrapped in a fuzzy blanket and eating s’mores while red and gold leaves sway around you.
Prep your kids ahead of time
Now that you know where you’re going to stay, your family can do some prep work ahead of time to make the trip go smoother. Involve your kids by showing them the various campsites, letting them pick activities they’d like to do, and sharing information about the locations. This will help set expectations and provide your kids the opportunity to feel valued and involved. Since multiple AutoCamp sites are nestled within national parks, it would be beneficial to do some research on the different locations. This will help pique your kid’s interest in your getaway and build excitement.
KATE SIBER & CHRIS TURNHAM
Travel coast to coast through 21 different national parks to learn about each landscape. This book is a surefire way to get your kiddos excited for the journey ahead.
Pack cozy yet practical attire
Most of the seasonal fun lies in comfy fall fashion. There’s just nothing like sweater weather! Make the most out of your trip by leaning into the plaids and knits of the season. But since most of your trip will be spent outside enjoying the crisp air, pick the practical version of these signature fall looks so you don’t end up wet and shivering in a trendy pair of UGG boots.
Reima
This waterproof rain set is adorable and the ideal solution for any outdoor activities you'll encounter on your family adventure. Available in sizes 12-18M to 5Y.
Passenger
This plaid long-lined shirt will keep the chill out with its cozy sherpa fleece material while still looking cute and seasonal. Available in sizes XS to XXL.
CALIA
Practical yet stylish—these lace up boots are equipped with great traction for any terrain. Available in black and tan.
Get the right on-the-go gear
Picking gear depends on how you plan to travel. Decide whether a plane or car is best for your family, then grab the necessary products based on your arrangements. Both flights and road trips will need plenty of entertainment for the kids, trays for food and snacks, and luggage. Once you arrive at your destination, consider what activities your family will be participating in and the age of your kids. If they’re on the younger side, you may need to take wagons for easy exploring or portable highchairs for on-the-go meals. If they’re older, books and travel activities will be your go-tos.
Amazon
Travel trays provide added convenience on the road or in a plane. Kids can eat, use tablets, or play with activities while they wait to arrive to your destination.
Melissa & Doug
This fun detective-themed activity will keep kids entertained during the trip, which also means less complaints for parents to hear. 😉
Prioritize making positive memories
All of this planning is pointless if we, as parents, don’t make the effort to cultivate a positive vacation experience for our kids. Children are simple when it comes to memory-making. They just want to feel important to us, which means that being present is essential. You may think you know everything about your kid from being around them 24/7, but trips are the perfect opportunity to dig a little deeper. There’s no work, school, or regular life to distract you. Play new games with them, take photos on film instead of your phone, ask them questions about their life—and above all, connect.
Amazon | CreateFun
Family conversation cards are great for spurring communication between kids and parents, so what better time to use them than during long road trips and vacations?
Target
Capture memories the old-fashioned way with this film camera. Not only will your photos have a nostalgic look to them, but it'll be super sweet to relive the memories once the images are developed.
This post contains a sponsored inclusion of AutoCamp, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.