FamilyFun readers have found some surprising ways to make their vacations special. Take the Wenzels of Hudson, Ohio. Four years ago, they arranged a visit by the Travel Fairy for their now 8-year-old daughter, Alexandra. Instead of the money her cousin the Tooth Fairy brings, the Travel Fairy delivers gifts—a disposable camera, snacks for the car, sunscreen—for kids going on vacation. "Alexandra loves her visits from the Travel Fairy and is a great traveler," says mom Diane.

Equally inspiring: Paul Goudeau of Amissville, Virginia, surprised his family with a treasure hunt on their beach vacation. To pull it off, he buried a small crate filled with "pirate loot," including candy and a pirate flag, then left a treasure map in an old bottle for the kids to find. "Now, every time we go to the beach, the kids say, 'Maybe we'll find more treasure!'" says mom Christine.

The Chriswells of Longmont, Colorado, reminisce about family adventures when they bake cookies. The reason? Their eclectic cookie cutter collection, which includes a bat from Carlsbad Caverns, a buffalo from Yellowstone National Park, and a cactus from Santa Fe. The souvenirs never fail to elicit memories. They're also long lasting. "Unlike T-shirts, kids can't outgrow them," says mom Kym.