5 Tips for Planning Happy Vacations with Teens Through Home Exchange

Does your teenager refer to 5-star hotels as “mid”? Are they only in it for the WiFi? Bring back the sense of adventure in your family vacations with home exchange.

Does your teenager refer to 5-star hotels as “mid”? Are they only in it for the WiFi? Bring back the sense of adventure in your family vacations with home exchange. By living like a local and tapping into your exchange partner’s expert advice, you’ll create meaningful experiences your teens will actually enjoy—and you’ll never look at traditional accommodations (or their costs) the same way again.

Here’s how home exchange can make vacations with teens not just easier, but memorable:

Involve them in the planning: Let’s face it—teenagers have opinions, and getting their buy-in can make or break a trip. Inviting them to weigh in on potential exchange destinations ensures everyone feels heard and excited. Plus, giving them some responsibility makes the adventure feel more personal to them.

Spark their curiosity: NEW is a magical word for teens. Instead of following the typical tourist trails, opt for unique destinations that aren’t on everyone’s Instagram. Think offbeat adventures, local treasures, and outdoor activities. Bonus points for trips that include skill-building opportunities, like learning the basics of kayaking, fly fishing, or earning a PADI scuba certification.

Respect their downtime: No, you can’t pry them away from their social media (and that’s okay). After an action-packed day of cycling, hiking, or exploring Roman ruins, let them unwind and recharge. Agree ahead of time to carve out moments for them to stay connected with friends or just relax.

Turn chores into adventures: Home exchange isn’t a hotel, and that’s part of the charm. Have your teens pitch in by grocery shopping at local farmers’ markets, discovering regional ingredients, and trying their hand at cooking a local dish. It’s not just a task—it’s an experience and a lot of fun.

Stay flexible and zen: Not everything will go as planned, and that’s part of the magic. Your teens will adore some activities while others might leave them unimpressed. Keep the vibe light, embrace the unexpected, and focus on creating moments they’ll want to share with their friends. In the end, they’ll appreciate the diversity of experiences and the stories they’ll bring home.


Traveling with teens can be a rewarding adventure when approached with a spirit of collaboration and curiosity. Home exchange offers the perfect opportunity to explore the world in a way that feels authentic, affordable, and fun for the whole family.

So, where will you head next? Let your teens help you decide, and pack your sense of adventure.

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Alexandra

My husband Patrice and myself are experienced home exchangers and we love it. We are dreaming of a time when we will be able to travel the world and home exchange... all year round. We are starting slowly, one exchange at a time
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