Summer Family Travel Trips to Book Now

With February around the corner, it seems downright decadent to be thinking about family vacations this summer. Still, the year’s shortest month is high time to book for July and August—especially if you want to get good deals on in-demand trips.

Because we Villanos are nature lovers, we’re always partial to excursions that revolve around outdoor adventure. Here are two ideas for summer family travel trips to book right now.

Sailing with Maine Windjammer Association
While most of the cruises from The Maine Windjammer Association are geared to families with older teenagers (age minimum ranges from 12-16), three of the 10 windjammers specialize in family cruises for children as young as five. On these trips, youngsters will find plenty to do, from tying knots and cranking ice cream to skipping stones and picking berries. These special trips include more time ashore for exploring tidal pools and making sand castles, plus a menu full of kid-friendly favorites. There’s even a Pirate Adventure cruise aboard the Schooner Isaac H. Evans that features an island treasure hunt and pillaging for gold doubloons. All-inclusive prices average $170 per person per day, with trips ranging from weekend getaways to week-long adventures. The sailing season runs from late May to mid October, and most vessels sail out of Camden, Rockport and Rockland, all of which are located in mid-coast Maine.

Family Zion and Bryce Canyon Hiking from REI
The slot canyons of Zion National Park and the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park offer *amazing* hiking and scenery, but what makes this trip really special are the private REI Signature Camps. After a long day on the trails, guests arrive to find fully appointed campsites packed with the comforts of home, from hot showers and flush toilets to hugely spacious REI tents with sturdy cots and thick sleeping pads, ample seating, and amenities galore. The “accommodations” are the perfect “entry” experience for kids who are used to hotel rooms but might be new to camping. Beside, all kids under 18 get an REI day pack for the adventure. The price—$1,899 for members, $2,099 for non-members—includes four nights in the wild, a guide for the duration of the trip, all meals and transport to and from Las Vegas.

Got any other good summer family travel trips to suggest? Please leave a comment in the field below.