The good news: My family and I went to Hawaii for our winter vacation. The bad news: It rained for five days straight upon our arrival on the island of Kauai. We had traveled 5,000 miles to relax on some of the world's most beautiful beaches, only to be trapped indoors. This wasn't my first family vacation gone awry; in 11 years of trekking across the globe with my three kids to write my nationally syndicated column, "Taking the Kids," I've dealt with mysterious illnesses, warring siblings, lost luggage and more.

Regardless of mishaps, I'm a firm believer that having the whole clan together makes traveling special. Family vacations bring everyone closer and create memories that last a lifetime. Perhaps that's why more than 100 million trips a year now involve children, according to the Travel Industry Association. However, before you tote your kids on trains, planes and automobiles, learn from my experience and make sure you're prepared. Here are 11 great tips from travel experts:

1. See the glass half full. "Keep your cool and the kids will, too," says Laura Sutherland, author of "The Best Family Ski Vacations in North America." Instead of getting annoyed by unexpected developments, put a positive spin on them. For example, lost luggage can be a great excuse for an impromptu shopping spree.

2. Play travel agent together. Let your children help shape the itinerary — they'll be more amenable to visiting a museum in the morning if they know they're headed to a water park in the afternoon. Researching destinations together will get everyone excited and in a good mood.

3. Send your little ones packing. Go over a checklist with your youngsters, but let them do their own packing. That way, they'll feel as if they're equal partners in your trip. (To play it safe: Double check your kids' bags, especially if they're under the age of 10.) Sutherland also suggests that each kid pack a backpack with a few of her favorite things to help keep her amused.

4. Give each other space. You're not used to being inseparable at home, so being in tight quarters 24/7 is bound to create some friction. That's why you should sign the kids up for ski lessons or the resort day camp while you and your mate cozy up in bed or go explore town. Don't feel guilty about splitting up — your children will probably appreciate the alone time, too.

More »