 “We just want to have fun,” scream the teenagers. But what exactly does that mean, and how do we plan a great holiday to satisfy our harshest critics?
We all know teenagers are not the most communicative beings on the planet, so planning a holiday which will entertain them as well as the rest of the family can sometimes be a matter of mind-reading. Sometimes it can go horribly wrong. How many times have you planned an activity, only to be told later it “sucked” (as opposed to being “sick”)?
Rather than pre-empt what teenagers like to do on holidays, Holidays with Kids decided to throw the topic open to discussion, and hear straight from the horses’ mouths what makes teenagers happy.
What do you like to do on your holidays?
Overwhelmingly, the teenagers who responded to our survey indicated they like to do things on holidays they don’t normally do in their daily life. Visiting family and watching television were definitely out. Galleries and museums didn’t score highly – most teenagers felt educational activities were better left at school. However, visiting theme parks and adventurous activities rated highly, along with lazing by a pool – “things that have the wow factor that we don’t have at home.” (Arran Swanson, aged 13, SA)
 Most like a variety of activities – a high-octane activity, followed by some chill out time. “From experience, a successful holiday isn’t all lazing around. It isn’t all sight seeing, shopping or adventurous activities. It’s about variety, experience and spending a relaxed time with your family.” (Danielle Fritz, aged 14, VIC)
Teenage girls, it seems, are addicted to shopping, so make sure you include time in your itinerary for that. Boys, on the other hand, have a complete aversion to trawling around shopping malls – so one tip is to separate, leave the boys to their computer games or a sporting activity while the girls have some pamper time, either shopping, or if the budget allows, at a day spa!
The teenagers also requested evening activities – and they certainly don’t want to be left babysitting younger siblings while the parents go out having fun!
While some prefer to map out the week and have activities planned for every day, others like the idea of winging it, exploring according to whim. “Too much planning and structure whilst on holiday takes away from the exhilaration and excitement of the trip.” (Rachael O’Neill, aged 15, NSW)
“Be spontaneous – don’t just stick to an itinerary. Otherwise that feels too much like school and isn’t really a holiday…” (Natalia Fareti, aged 19, Wellington)
 Camping or luxury?
It seems the lure of comfy beds, fluffy pillows and minibars starts at a very young age! While some teenagers love the freedom and adventure of camping, most of them – particularly girls – would prefer to go five star, living the high life while they are on holidays. Room service, swimming pools and beaches rate highly, and definitely being spoilt!
One teenager made a very valid point that teenagers like to “see and be seen … so will probably not appreciate camping out in the middle of nowhere with no hot water”. They also hate to be away from mobile phone reception! So wherever you choose to spend your holiday, keep in mind that teenagers are generally tribal-minded and like to hang out with others their own age. Some suggested taking along a friend – a great idea if it can be arranged.
Dream Destinations:
Theme parks are a perennial favourite with teenagers, so the Gold Coast and the USA ranked highly. Thailand, Hawaii and Fiji are popular for beach holidays, while Kakadu and the Kimberley rate for hardcore adventure. Melbourne, China and Italy seemed to be high on the shopping “wish list”, while quite a few of our responders said they dreamed of going to Egypt for a holiday that combines adventure and culture. “Cool things to see and do, some museums to keep Mum and Dad happy and camel rides and boat rides and chill out time down the Nile.” (Liam Ellis-Gannell, aged 13, NSW)
Teenagers Tips:
 If there’s one message teenagers want to give their parents, it’s to include them in the decision-making process. They want their opinions to be known and respected, from planning a destination to daily activities.
“Don’t just assume that your teenagers will enjoy something when they’re telling you they won’t. Also make sure that the place you’re staying has something that your teenagers will enjoy.” (Rachel Loughland, aged 14, NSW)
It seems our teens want to soak up every experience that is thrown their way. Most say they love learning about local cultures and being adventurous.
“My tips for my parents would be less fast food, more like tasting the local produce and dishes, and massage for teenagers, less time hanging around cafes for cuppas.” (Bianca Pridham, from SA)
Freedom and individuality is high on the agenda, with time out for teens away from siblings and parents. “Make sure you give them some freedom. Let them decide some of the things you will be doing. Don’t just drag them around doing things you want to.” (Ashley Rose, aged 12, NSW)
Finally, words of wisdom from 13-year-old Amy Truss from WA: “Remember, it’s meant to be a holiday, not a stress show.”
Thanks to all the teenagers who responded to our survey – your tips and advice were fantastic!
A prize of $50 goes to Georgia Marett, aged 13, of Surrey Hills Victoria. Here’s part of her letter…
 “My best holiday would have to be when we went to the Melbourne CBD. I must explain that I live in the outer suburbs of Melbourne. This may seem a little weird but it was really good, we went and saw all the historic buildings, restaurants (including a fab chocolate café!) and we had a full day of constant shopping in all the malls and shopping centres. When we got back to our hotel we look at the great view from our hotel window and relaxed!
“I would prefer luxury (but a tent is fine too, it’s really where you are not the accommodation!) I like luxury because it has fluffy pillows, spacious beds, warm doonas and especially a separate room for my bro!
“Things I don’t like on a holiday: let’s put it this way, when I am on holidays I like to play my fave game: dodging all responsibility and hassles!
“If you are planning a family holiday the best advice I can give you is to ask your children (teens or not) where they want to go, what they want to do, how they want to spend their own money and what they really want to experience on this holiday. You should also help them choose at least one day’s worth of entertainment that they can claim that they at least partly organised. Also don’t make it too jam-packed, kids need time to chill out too! They they can feel like they had an input…”
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