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Would You Cancel Christmas for a Family Trip Instead?

Most parents would consider canceling Christmas for a vacation adventure

By Kayt Myers December 10, 2019

My kids would likely have a hard time naming most of the gifts they received for the holidays last year. However, ask them about any family vacation we took—even one from years ago—and they have plenty of stories to share. 

At Macaroni Kid Family Travel, we believe experiences—especially those involving travel—are far better to give than gifts wrapped under the tree.

Turns out more than half of parents agree. According to a recent poll of 2,500 parents by global guided vacations company Trafalgar, 66 percent of parents say they would cancel Christmas to travel. Even more—78 percent—said they would rather spend money on a vacation instead of holiday gifts.

Think it’s too expensive to travel for the holidays? Think again. Trafalgar says 56 percent of parents reported spending $5,000 or more on the holidays—more than it needs to costs for a weeklong family vacation to Europe.

Money spent isn’t the only thing on the rise at the holidays. Forty-one percent of parents in the study reported feeling stress during the holiday season, whereas only 4 percent reported feeling stress on vacation.

While the holidays are supposed to be all about spending time with family, 64 percent of parents told Trafalgar they spend the most quality time with their families while on vacation. 

All of this to say: travel is truly the gift that gives all year and will create family memories that will likely last far longer than that toy under the tree. Consider that when making your holiday plans this year!

Offering over 230 itineraries across 7 continents, Trafalgar offers endless vacation options to make this the most memorable holiday season yet. The perfect present all wrapped in one, Trafalgar itineraries include accommodations, transportation, most meals, expert travel directors, and unforgettable experiences.