Vacation

The film opens with Rusty Griswold, played by Ed Helms, as a pilot for Econoair. He makes an 18-minute flight from South Bend, Indiana, to Chicago, setting the stage for the family's upcoming adventures.

At home, Rusty and his family have dinner with their neighbors, the Petersons. The dinner reveals tensions in the Griswold household, particularly regarding the relationships between Rusty, his wife Debbie, and their two sons, James and Kevin.

During dinner, Debbie expresses her disappointment at the family's repetitive vacations to Cheboygan, Michigan. This prompts Rusty to decide to change their routine and take the family on a road trip to Walley World in Los Angeles.

Rusty rents an absurd car called the Prancer, which is a hybrid from Ukraine with overly complicated features. This sets the tone for their chaotic road trip filled with laughs and mishaps.

The Griswold family starts their road trip, with Rusty attempting to bond with his family by encouraging them to sing along to 'Kiss From a Rose.' Their lack of participation hints at the family's disconnection.

While stopping for lunch at a diner in Missouri, Rusty tries to keep the mood light despite their growing tensions. They see the Teddy Bear Truck again in the parking lot, foreshadowing more encounters.

Rusty takes a detour to show the boys their mother's college sorority house. Debbie's past is revealed as she joins in a ridiculous 'chug run' challenge, highlighting her youthful spirit.

The family finds themselves being pursued by the Teddy Bear Truck after Rusty performs an ill-fated stunt to escape. This thrilling car chase showcases Rusty's desperation to keep his family engaged in the trip.

The Griswolds arrive at Audrey's house, where Rusty feels overshadowed by her handsome and successful husband, Stone. The family dynamic becomes increasingly strained and comedic.

After a failed visit to a supposed hot spring, the Griswolds discover they've ended up at a septic dump. This misadventure highlights Rusty's poor decision-making throughout the journey.

In a pivotal moment, James finally confronts his bully brother, Kevin. This turning point solidifies James's growth and provides a brief moment of unity amidst their chaotic trip.

The family engages in a rafting adventure at the Grand Canyon, leading to a near-disaster when their guide takes an unsafe route. This event deepens the family's struggles and showcases the unpredictability of their journey.

Frustrated and feeling like a failure, Rusty abandons the family in the desert after their car breaks down. This moment signifies Rusty's lowest point in the journey, leading to further growth and realization.

The family encounters a truck driver who returns Debbie's lost wedding ring, connecting them back to their family bond. This moment helps Rusty realize the importance of their family connections.

After a tumultuous journey, the Griswolds finally arrive at Walley World. They team up to confront the rival family that cuts in line, culminating in a cathartic chaotic moment together as they cherish their time as a family.