Travelling with teenagers can be a minefield – too many rules or too much structure, and the complaints never stop; too few activities and boredom sets in causing them to retreat behind their screens! On the other hand, too much freedom, and you risk barely seeing them, let alone bonding as a family.
But according to Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts and father of a teen and tween, the key to a successful family holiday isn’t about keeping your teenagers entertained every second – it’s about giving them space while making time for meaningful shared experiences that strengthen your connection. “Teens can present unique challenges when it comes to travel,” says Lamont. “They’re fiercely independent but still want to be part of family experiences. They seek adventure while also needing downtime. The trick is finding a balance that works for everyone.”
Based on his own experiences, Lamont shares his top tips for travelling with teenagers to help reduce tension and ensure a holiday where your family can create magical, lasting memories:
• Involve them in the planning: Give your teenagers a sense of ownership by involving them in the trip planning process and decision-making. Let them suggest places to visit or activities to try which will ensure they are engaged from the outset. Ensure that each one’s preferences are heard while guiding them to negotiate choices so that everyone is fairly accommodated.
• Make the journey part of the fun: Road trips can be the most painful part of a holiday. Let the kids take charge of the playlist and choose roadside stops, even if it means a detour, as it adds an element of adventure and fun to the journey, rather than just a means to an end. Plus, allow them to download a movie or an audiobook beforehand for moments when everyone wants to relax (don’t forget the headphones).
• If you can’t beat them, join them: Teenagers love Instagram-worthy moments, and while parents may be tempted to resist this obsession with social media, embracing it can lead to planning activities that create memorable experiences everyone can enjoy and share. Pick places with exciting activities like go-karting or those featuring striking landscapes, quirky attractions, or hidden gems they’ll want to photograph. At the same time, be intentional about setting boundaries for ‘no-phone time’ to ensure they stay present in the moment.
• Teens still love to play – so play with them: They may act cool, but teenagers are kids at heart and given the chance still enjoy having some fun with mom and dad. Playing pool or darts, tennis doubles, fun games in the pool, and card or board games are great ways to bond, creating moments of laughter and friendly competition for all to cherish. Find a resort, like some of those in First Group’s portfolio that offers these kinds of activities and don’t just watch—play with them.
• Give them some independence: Teenagers want some freedom, and a holiday is the perfect chance to let them have it—within limits and age-dependent. Choose resorts like Magalies Park, Breakers Resort, or Hermanus Beach Club, where they can safely explore on their own, enjoy amenities such as the games room, adventure zone, or sporting facilities, and join daily activities. Giving them some space will also make them more willing to spend family time together later.
• Make it about experiences, not just sightseeing: Dragging teens from one tourist attraction to another is a recipe for boredom. Instead, mix it up with experiences like zip-lining, visiting a water park, quad biking, or kayaking, along with fun evenings like a DIY pizza competition—activities that will also appeal to the whole family.
Lamont believes that travelling with teens doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. “The best trips are the ones where everyone gets a bit of what they want – some adventure, some downtime, and most importantly, time together as a family.
For more information on First Group properties, visit https://www.firstgroup-sa.co.za