Whales, great parks, beaches and giant cities: North America is an ideal destination for a family trip, as long as the pace and itinerary are adapted to the children's ages. Here are our tips for a successful trip for young and old.
Which destination for a family trip?
- Western Canada: orca and whale watching off Vancouver Island (May to October), turquoise lakes in the Rockies, bears and elk along the roads. A dream for animal-loving kids.
- The parks of the American West: Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion or Yellowstone and its geysers. Many parks offer a free Junior Ranger programme, with an activity booklet and a badge to earn.
- Florida: beaches, Orlando theme parks, Kennedy Space Center and Everglades alligators. Perfect for a first trip with young children.
- New York: as a short city trip, or at the start or end of a tour.
Adapting the pace
With children, keep daily legs to 200-300 km at most, with two nights in the same place now and then to recharge. Plan regular breaks and varied activities: a short hike, a swim, a ranch or museum visit.
Paperwork not to forget
- Every child, even a baby, needs their own passport and travel authorisation (ESTA for the USA, eTA for Canada).
- Child car seats are mandatory depending on age and size: book them with the hire car.
- Take good travel insurance covering medical costs, which are very high in North America.
When to go?
Summer holidays are the busiest period: book early, especially in the national parks. Easter holidays suit Florida and the US Southwest very well, and autumn holidays New England and Quebec.
A trip built for your family
Family rooms, suitable activities, shorter stages: your adviser builds the itinerary with you, based on everyone's age and wishes.
