Getting ready to take the family on vacation this weekend? Or maybe you're planning on doing that later in the summer. Whenever you decide to head out with the family, you'll want it to be a good time. Yes, it can be challenging trying to please everybody, but with a little creativity and advanced planning, you can minimize the stress and maximize the fun. Westways magazine offers these six suggestions to do just that:

1. Get the entire family involved in the planning process. Have a family discussion about everyone's trip priorities for sightseeing, activities, and other adventures.

2. Time your destinations right. If your kids nap, try to leave about an hour before their regular tap time. If you have a long flight (say, coast-to-coast or international), consider taking the red-eye. If all goes well, your kids will sleep through the entire flight.

3. Choose your toys wisely. Pack toys that are simple and don't break easily. Crayons and coloring books often work well. If you take electronic games, be sure to pack extra batteries.

4. Equip everyone with a disposable camera. Make sure everyone has a notebook, too. When you return, create a travel journal as a family with photos and stories.

5. Don't try to do too much. Pack too much sightseeing into one day, and your kids will end up cranky. Worse yet, they probably won't remember any of the things you were trying to show them.

6. Talk about the day's experiences. What was the best part of the day? What ws the funniest moment? What did everyone learn? Reliving the day can reinforce the best memories.