ArcaMax

Of course, talk about budget with the kids. You're not going to Atlantis in the Bahamas or on a cruise if your budget can only handle a few days at a modest place a drivable distance from home. And make sure everyone in the family -- even the youngest -- gets a say in the itinerary. (Alternate their picks for first-ride-of-the-day in Orlando, for example.)

I've been talking to a lot of kids around the country this past year as I've been researching my series of Kids City Guides from Globe Pequot. (The Kid's Guide to LA and to Chicago have just come out; The Kid's Guide to Boston next month.) Each book includes lots of tips from local kids and kids who are traveling to help kids have more fun on vacation. To help steer all of you on the path to Family Vacation Nirvana, here are six tips from kids:

1. PLAN TOGETHER "Do research on the computer before you go," suggests Elsa, 8, from Chicago. "It really helps when you get there," especially at a big theme park!

2. ALWAYS BE PREPARED. "Have a reusable water bottle and Band-Aids in your backpack," suggested Rebecca, 11, who is from Orlando.

"Bring snacks like animal crackers," said Allison, 11, who is from Los Angeles.

"Have sunscreen so you don't get burned," said Jennifer, 11, from San Diego. "And sunglasses so you can see if it is too bright," added her classmate Melissa.

3. CUT THE ITINERARY SO YOU HAVE PLENTY OF DOWNTIME

"Have a picnic," suggested Dylan, 12, from Los Angeles.

"Lay down in the grass at a park and then fly kites," added Edward, 10, from San Diego

"Walking around a city with no agenda is the best thing!" said Hannah, 12, from Chicago. "I like to just look around at all the buildings downtown," agreed Ian, 11, also from Chicago.

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