6 Vacation Ideas for Big Families That Are Fun, Practical, and Easy to Plan

Traveling together as a large family can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, according to the U.S. Travel Association, families that travel together report significantly higher levels of happiness and stronger relationships. With the right destination and a little planning, your big family trip can be memorable for all the right reasons.

Here are six of the best vacation ideas perfect for large families, offering something for everyone without the stress.

1. Embrace Ranch Life at a Family Resort

Ever dreamed of experiencing ranch life without heading out west? Head to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in Central Florida. Set on 1,700 acres, this luxury glamping resort offers a wide range of accommodations—from hotel rooms to authentic Conestoga wagons. According to TripAdvisor reviews, it's one of the highest-rated family ranch experiences in the Southeast.

Families can enjoy airboat rides, horseback riding, skeet shooting, and even a professional Saturday night rodeo. With so many activities on-site, there’s no need to plan complicated day trips. It’s the ultimate one-stop destination where everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, can find something exciting.

2. Take Over a Beach Motel for a Laid-Back Getaway

Beach vacations are a classic for a reason. Instead of booking expensive resorts, consider a more relaxed and budget-friendly alternative: small beachfront motels. Towns like Cocoa Beach, Florida, or Pawleys Island, South Carolina, offer family-friendly accommodations without the hefty price tag.

The Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites, for instance, has a reputation for being ideal for large groups and offers direct beach access. According to Visit Florida, off-the-beaten-path beach towns see 30% fewer crowds during off-peak seasons, making them perfect for big family vacations.

Here, everyone can pick a room that fits their needs, spend days lounging on the beach, and gather at communal spaces to reconnect—all with the calming backdrop of the ocean.

3. Escape to a Mountain Cabin Retreat

Prefer the mountains over the beach? Mountain towns like Blue Ridge, Georgia, or Gatlinburg, Tennessee, are packed with large rental cabins designed for extended families. According to the Smoky Mountains Tourism Board, group cabin rentals have grown by 15% since 2020, showing that more families are choosing nature-focused vacations.

These mountain retreats offer activities like hiking, fishing, and even zip-lining. In winter, destinations like Beech Mountain, North Carolina, transform into cozy ski towns. Renting a few cabins side by side lets families enjoy togetherness without feeling cramped.

4. Rent a Fully-Equipped Vacation Home

Sometimes, the best family trips are less about sightseeing and more about simply being together. Vacation rental platforms like VRBO and Airbnb offer large houses that can accommodate 15 to 100 guests.

When booking, look for homes that are fully stocked with kitchen supplies, laundry facilities, and entertainment options. According to a 2023 Airbnb report, group bookings for large homes increased by 30% compared to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a growing demand for family-focused travel.

A home rental allows families to cook, eat, and relax together at their own pace, whether the trip is a quiet reunion or a full-blown celebration.

5. Relax at an All-Inclusive Resort

All-inclusive resorts can take the stress out of vacation planning. At places like The Swag in Waynesville, North Carolina, families can enjoy gourmet meals, hiking trails, and scenic views—all included in the package price.

A study by the Family Travel Association found that all-inclusive vacations reduce overall trip stress by 40%, making them ideal for large groups trying to coordinate multiple needs. With meals, lodging, and activities bundled together, families know upfront what to expect—no hidden costs or surprises.

6. Connect with Nature on a Camping Trip

Camping is one of the most affordable and adventurous ways for big families to vacation together. According to KOA’s 2023 North American Camping Report, 62% of family campers say that camping helped them connect more deeply with their loved ones.

Campgrounds often offer a mix of tent sites, cabins, and RV hookups, letting each family choose their comfort level. Plus, days filled with hiking, swimming, campfire stories, and stargazing naturally create bonding moments that stick with you long after the trip is over.

Conclusion:

Planning a trip for a large family doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive. With a little research and smart choices—ranch resorts, cozy mountain cabins, beach motels, vacation homes, all-inclusive resorts, or camping adventures—you can create a vacation that brings everyone closer together. Start with one of these ideas and build memories that will last a lifetime.