Coolcationing: The Hottest Day in Recorded History Made Us Find the Coolest Vacations You Can Take

Last updated on 09/23/2024

Were you feeling toasty on July 22, 2024? If you were, there's a good reason. As of this writing, it's officially the hottest day in recorded history. There is some science involved that is a little over our heads, but while we were fanning ourselves off, we had a thought:

Where could families go for vacation when they want to escape extreme heat?

These days, you might see the practice referred to as "coolcationing" online. So, to help you and your loved ones coolcation in style, we've selected three destinations for cool summer weather vacations, plus one for families who also want some extra in their winter, too.

Cool Year-Round: Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, located on Canada’s west coast, is a great coolcationing spot year-round. The city enjoys a temperate climate that almost always keeps temperatures mild. The coastal breezes and nearby mountains help, too, making it a great choice for cool weather summer vacations.

For the best family vacation with kids, make sure you spend time in Stanley Park, where children can enjoy the Vancouver Aquarium. Kids can also get interactive with exhibits at the Science World Museum, while parents may be able to find some adults-only time taking in the views from the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Cool in Summer: Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, Maine, is great for coolcationing too. Located on Mount Desert Island, this idyllic town is known for its cooler summer temperatures. Another coastal destination, Bar Harbor's ocean breezes help make the town a mild and ideal choice for your family's cool weather summer vacations.

Your itinerary for the best family vacation with kids in Bar Harbor should include a visit to nearby Acadia National Park. Together, you and the kids can take a scenic drive, and even fit in a hike if everyone has the energy. If you're aiming for a bit more relaxation, this destination is full of charming shops, family-owned restaurants, and tour guides happy to take your family out for an exploration of the local waters.

Cool in Winter: Aspen, Colorado

While some families want cooler temperatures in the summer, we know there's a whole other breed who can't get cold enough. So we're putting cool-weather summer vacations aside for this last one and recommending some winter coolcationing in Aspen, Colorado. Thanks to its high elevation in the Rocky Mountains, it receives plenty of snowfall and crisp air throughout the winter months.

This top-notch destination has more than chills though. It has thrills for families who love winter sports.

For the best family vacation with kids in Aspen, pull out the skis and snowboards as soon as you arrive. There are slopes for every experience level, from beginner to pro, and if skiing is not your thing, you can skip them and still have plenty of outdoor fun. Some other options include snowshoeing, ice skating—even sleigh rides. No matter what you choose to do here, though, just a few minutes here will help you leave thoughts of sweltering heat far, far behind.

What's Cooler Than Cool? Staying Insured on Your Family Vacation

When you’re coolcationing, of course, you want to escape the heat. However, you can also keep a cool head by worrying less about the obstacles that could arise on your trip with family travel health insurance. With the right policy for your family's needs, you may be able to protect yourself financially if someone in your group needs medical attention, for example, or replacement medication.

There are many travel insurance options available, though, so if this type of coverage is important to you, make sure you're choosing a plan with the benefits that will be most effective for you and your loved ones. You can do that more easily when you compare family travel health insurance policies on InsureMyTrip.com.

As the world's first travel insurance comparison site, we are an unbiased resource that you can use to build quotes from top providers. With a dedicated Customer Care team of licensed professionals, we are equipped to help you navigate the nuances of different plan options as you consider coverage and answer your travel insurance-related questions.

To begin finding the right plan for your family, start a quote today. Then, enjoy the perfect coolcation adventure.