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Congratulations! If you're even considering taking a trip with your in-laws your relationship with them is probably one that many people would envy. It 's important to be sure that your trip doesn't change things for the worse. Here are some important ways to make sure you still like each other when the trip is over:

1) Too much togetherness is a bad thing. Make sure you have separate accommodations, even if it costs more. Even the best relationships can be strained by having to share a bathroom or a kitchen, and don't even think about sharing a bedroom.

2) Keep expenses separate, unless your in-laws are treating. Avoid arguments or hurt feelings over money by asking for separate checks in restaurants, and scrupulously paying your share at every event. If your in-laws treat you to the entire trip or to a fee meal, accept it graciously. If they're paying for the trip, take them out to dinner to say thank you. If they're paying for dinner, leave the tip.

3) Don't feel like you need to do everything together. If the trip is someone else's treat, you may need to go along with some of their ideas, but if you're splitting the costs feel free to suggest that the couples split up and meet again later. Alternatively, the women may want to do something different than the men. The point is for everyone to enjoy themselves, not to spent every moment living in each other's pockets.

4) If you have grievances or need to discuss family problems, this is most definitely not the time to do it. Save your complaints and problems until the trip is over.

5) Don't make your in-laws your unpaid babysitters unless you know they want the job. Your children are your responsibility. Some in-laws would rather watch your children than win the lottery, while others would rather eat ground glass. Be sensitive to their preferences.

6) If your in-laws are elderly or have health problems, don't expect them to keep up with you. Instead, help to make them comfortable. Offer to get them a drink, take over the driving, or get them an extra pillow from the front desk.

7) Avoid complaining, even if the trip is disappointing. No one likes a whiner, and your in-laws may be especially offended by complaints about things they've paid for. The only time complaining may be O.K. is if everyone hates a particular place, and even then its best make a joke out of it.

With a little consideration and a lot of luck, vacationing with your in-laws may be a common occurrence, and one that everyone looks forward to.

Learn more about this author, Emily Wickersham.
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