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7 Smart Ways to Keep Kids Active While Traveling This Summer

Intro: Why Movement Matters—Even on Vacation

Summer vacations are about rest, fun, and making memories—but they can also come with a surprising downside: kids getting less physical activity than usual. Between long car rides, late bedtimes, and screen time in hotels, it's easy for movement to take a backseat.

But staying active—even in small bursts—has big benefits for children’s physical and mental health. Daily physical activity boosts mood, improves sleep, and enhances brain function in kids.

The good news? You don’t need a gym, structured schedule, or sports equipment to keep kids moving. Here are 7 realistic, vacation-friendly ways to stay active and connected—wherever your summer takes you.

Smiling children sit in a parked white car, excited for a trip. Sunlight streams in, creating a cheerful and bright atmosphere.

1. Make Movement Part of the Journey

Whether you're flying or road-tripping, build in physical breaks. Set timers for stretch stops. Walk airport terminals or rest areas. Pack a jump rope or resistance bands for movement breaks on the go


Three children in colorful jackets explore a forest trail with sticks, supervised by an adult in the background. Greenery surrounds them.

2. Explore the Local Area—By Foot or Bike

Turn sightseeing into stealth exercise.

  • Try “family step challenges”

  • Rent bikes to explore parks or beaches

  • Look for hotel maps that show walking loops

Bonus tip: Many hotel concierges have walking trail recommendations—just ask!


3. Pack Portable Activity Tools

Think lightweight and low-maintenance:

  • Resistance bands

  • Collapsible cones for obstacle races

  • Mini sports balls (tennis or foam)

These small tools can make a big impact in a park, hotel hallway, or even a rest stop lawn.


Three people skip stones by a river, wearing casual clothes. Rocky shoreline, trees, and blue sky create a playful and relaxed mood.

4. Turn Nature into a Playground

National parks, lakes, and beaches are perfect fitness zones.Try:

• Races on the sand.

• Rock hopping challenges.

• Water bucket relays at the beach

These kinds of activities are not only fun—they’re great for balance, agility, and coordination.


5. Use Tech to Move

While we often think of screens as sedentary, some tech can actually encourage activity.Try:

  • Dance or yoga videos on YouTube

  • Kid-friendly fitness apps

  • Step-tracking watches for fun family goals

Physical activity has been shown to support kids’ executive function, especially when paired with games.


Scavenger hunt map on grass, featuring lakes, trees, a red X, compass, and sun. Bright colors create an adventurous mood.

6. Create a Vacation Movement Game

Make it fun and flexible:

  • “Fitness scavenger hunts” in new places

  • Hotel hallway relay races

  • Point systems for active choices (stairs > elevator)

Turning exercise into a game gives kids a sense of control and play—even when routines are disrupted.


7. Set an Example (and Join the Fun!)

Kids are more likely to stay active when they see you moving, too. Even a quick game of tag or a family dance-off can get everyone’s heart rate up and moods lifted.


Final Thoughts: Movement = Memories

Vacation is a time for rest—but active moments can make the difference between kids feeling sluggish and kids feeling energized, connected, and strong. With just a little creativity, you can turn any destination into a playground of possibilities.


Looking for more tips to keep your kids strong, confident, and moving all summer? Contact Fit First for youth fitness classes, camps, and private coaching all year round.




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