How many bases are too many on a family trip?
Most family trips improve when one or two hotel changes disappear. Every move consumes packing time, sleep and goodwill, so a strong base with good day trips often beats a route that looks more complete on a map.
Answer
There is no magic number, but there is a clear warning sign: when the family spends more energy preparing to leave than enjoying where it has arrived. A two-night stop can work when the transfer is simple and the room is ready. It becomes poor value when it requires early packing, several vehicles, a missed nap and another round of settling in. Children also expose the hidden cost of short stays because every room has to become functional before anyone can relax. The practical move is to protect the best bases and treat nearby places as day trips where the return is easy. Do not shorten every stop just to cover the full map; remove the weakest base first. A focused route usually feels richer because the family has time to develop favourite cafés, playgrounds and low-effort routines.