Jamaica has a reputation for being a party island with some of the best adults-only hotels in the world.

And that's all true! But it's also a perfect destination for a family vacation.

Many hotels in Jamaica are promoted by the Jamaica Tourist Board as especially family-friendly and there are plenty of attractions geared at kids of all ages.
 
If your problem isn’t about finding things to do in Jamaica and is more about the best way to get everyone there happily and in one piece and stay that way, here are a few tips to get the most out of your vacation. 

 
Tip 1: do your (travel) homework together

One of the best parts about any trip is dreaming about what you’re going to do when you get there.

So when planning your trip, get the kids involved.

Pull out a map of Jamaica and have them come up with ideas of things they would like to do and see.

It's a great way for them to learn a bit about where they’re going.

It’s also a great time for you to research children’s activities, childcare options, and need-to-know information.

 
Tip 2: pack for the (individual) journey

Have every kid help pack their carry-on for the plane.

They get to choose a book and/or a toy to take. Maybe it’s a pocket doll set or toy cars, or a coloring book.

It’s also always a good idea to let them choose a couple of movies to download if using a tablet (a great travel tool, especially if you get stuck in an airport by a delayed flight).

Oh, and don't forget the snacks!

They’ll enjoy the travel part more and trust us, so will you!
 

With the cost of extra bags and the idea that your kids will be living in their swimsuits, many families opt for the “one giant suitcase’ approach.

Depending on potential flight delays, lost luggage, or even a long day trip while on your actual vacation, it’s a good idea to have a smaller bag prepped with essentials for each family member.

Your family 'go bag' should have spare toothbrushes and toothpaste, underwear, suitable clothing to match the temperature in Jamaica, sunscreen, some basic medicines, and so on.

So no matter what, you’ve got the family covered to be as comfortable as possible.

Tip 4: beat jet lag (asap)

If you’ve traveled to the Caribbean, it’s pretty common to want to spend all day in the sun.

If you’ve changed time zones, try and be awake during those hours.

Resetting to local time as soon as possible with a healthy dose of sunlight is the easiest way to set body clocks and not lose time on your vacation due to jet lag.

Children usually adjust more quickly than adults so maybe pack some melatonin for yourself (a natural sleep aid) and make sure you get a good night’s rest.

Melatonin also comes in gummies for kids.

Tip 5: look for (Jamaican) experiences

With children, it’s good to look for an enriching component to every trip.

It’s easy to spend the whole day lazing on the beach while the kids build sandcastles and jump in the waves.

However, travel is an incredible learning experience for children, and for you, and doing a little exploring can make your family holiday in Jamaica much more memorable than days spent on white sand beaches staring at turquoise water.

Although we have to admit, that’s still a pretty nice way to spend a day.