We're going to be doing a one week driving vacation through Ireland with 2 young adult sons (24,28) and one of their significant other. Any suggestions for things to bring along, do, to make the time fun, accomodate everyones needs, etc.? Any ideas would be appreciated. Haven't done a family trip with everyone since they went off to college.

when I first read your title I figured you were talking about 16, 17 year olds.

But since you are talking about almost 30 year olds - I'm not sure what sorts of things you are considering. Everyone should just bring what they would normally on a trip.

Do any of them have special needs? If not, one would think the trip iteself would be "fun" enough . . . . .

After I reread my posted entry title I realized that it did sound like "young" adult children. Anyway, I guess I was thinking of things I would forget....like......I don't know... a deck of cards..whatever....hard to let go of the "mother" role I guess. I know we will have fun, but the trip is this Friday so I guess I'm obsessing!

Hi Marshacarlin,
We have boys about the same age. I guess I would suggest that everyone have a little time to themselves sometime during the day or evening.

How nice that you will have this vacation together and allthe memories to share.

Wishing you a great time!
Have fun,
Robbyn

Hi m,

With 5 adults, I suggest two small cars rather than one van.

It will allow you to split up when necessary.

Oops! too late on the two car idea! we're actually traveling with our 2 sons, a new financee and my husband's bachelor brother..........in a van! which is why I'm looking for mental diversions other than the beautiful countryside! We do plan to stay in towns and give every one time to wander off on their own once we've arrived, but it's during the drive time that I was looking for diversions. Maybe I'm just over thinking this. Thanks for your thoughts.

6 adults - 1 van - winding Irish roads?

You won't need any diversions. If any of the 6 of you are the least bit urpy on car trips - you'll be able to play the "where can we stop, Joe is green again" game.

Just kidding - but only a bit. If you are traveling in the scenic areas (and hopefully you are) please take pity on the ones at the back of the bus. You really need to rotate seats.

marsha
You need to not feel responible for everyone having a good time. (a downfall of mine also)
The cards are a good idea. There were four of us and we played cards in the pubs while waiting for the music to begin. (9:30-10:00)

You could give them all disposible cameras, collect them after the trip and then give them each a book with everyone's pictures as a keepsake for the family adventure...

I was just going to suggest the same thing, Wednesday! And I fervently second the seat-rotation idea. We had some very tense moments in a Land Rover with five of us in the Scottish highlands, hoping and praying that our youngest would make it out of the car in time. I'd never actually seen or understood the "green" look before.

Are you sure it's too late to get two cars? You may all fit in a van, but is there room for luggage too?

I really agree w/ Barbara. Is it too late to change your booking? A family of 6 w/ small children would be bad enough, but 6 adults in a van could be even worse. If the vehilce is large enough for 6 and luggage it will be very large.

two small cars would be 1) less cramped 2) less expensive to rent, and 3) give you some flexibility and don't all have to joined at the hip 24/7.

Not specific to Ireland, but when I travel with my (all adult) family (9 of us) we allow plenty of time apart. Either solos, couples together, smaller group divided by interest in a particular activity. Build in some space, is my best advice.

Second best, I know Mom's will always be mother, but I don't think you need to feel responsible for organizing all the plans and entertainment. Simce yo mentioned mostly during the ride you're worried about, I'd recommend that everyone have Dramamine at the ready (or that's what my family would need most of all). Playing cards in the back of a van with 5 other people would be absolutely deadly for me personally.