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Holidays with children have largely been marginalised in research that examines leisure travel. This paper is a critical review of the available literature and presents a summary of themes relevant for the study of family holidays. Most tourism work is market-driven and from an adult perspective, with children treated as passive members of the family. Neglected areas include the social and cultural dimensions of the family holiday experience, such as social interactions and relationships, and the tangible and intangible benefits of holidays for family members. This discussion is contextualised within the current trends and issues relating to families in New Zealand. A research agenda is proposed that seeks to address the gaps in the tourism and travel literature, and particularly the need to lend a voice to children themselves, and recognise the experiences of all family members.