With the price of gas, airline tickets, food and seemingly everything else going up, you and your co-parent may be looking for ways to each take an affordable vacation this summer with your children. One solution that can save you some money (although it isn’t for everyone) is a shared family vacation.
This isn’t a new idea. You’ve probably seen Instagram posts of famous divorced couples sharing some time at the beach or in the mountains with their shared children and maybe even new spouses and kids. Arguably, it’s easier to do when you can afford to rent a multi-acre vacation home. However, families of various income levels make it work, too.
It’s generally more cost-efficient to rent a home through Airbnb or VRBO that can comfortably fit all of you than to get multiple hotel rooms or suites. Maybe you already have a vacation home that one or both of you kept in the divorce.
A shared family vacation isn’t right for everyone. However, if you and your children have an amicable or even friendly relationship with your ex and the new people in their life, and there’s a destination you all enjoy, it’s worth considering.
Establishing ground rules
A shared vacation should never be attempted without careful planning. If important things are left to chance, they can create friction that will ruin the trip. It’s wise to discuss and even document things like:
- How expenses will be divided
- How bedrooms and other sleeping areas will be assigned and shared
- How the trip will fit into your parenting time schedule
- How child care responsibilities will be divided for kids who aren’t old enough to be left alone
- Any special sightseeing or other activities either or both of you want to do with the children
- Whose rules will apply if there are things you do differently across your homes
- Food allergies or other concerns to be aware of (for example, for stepchildren or new spouses that your ex may not know well)
If a shared summer vacation is enjoyed by all and you plan to do it again at other times of the year or when the following summer rolls around, you may want to consider incorporating it into your parenting plan.
If you have questions or concerns as you’re considering or planning a shared vacation, it can be helpful to reach out for legal guidance. This can help avoid unforeseen complications.