Planning a family holiday is an invariably challenging task. With so many moving parts and so much to remember, from renewing passports to organising pet care, it can often feel profoundly overwhelming. However, the stress of planning a holiday should never put a damper on your excitement. While some people thrive on micromanaging family trips and events, organisation skills don’t come easy for others. If you fall into the latter category, consider the following tips for planning the perfect family holiday.
Pick Your Location Wisely
Unsurprisingly, some locations are better suited for families than others. For instance, far-flung destinations may be unsuitable for large families with multiple young children, as long journeys can be challenging. Suppose the prospect of international travel is too overwhelming if you have an infant. In that case, a staycation could be a preferable option. Furthermore, you may want to settle on a location with plenty of opportunities for family activities - beach days, adventure parks, nature walks, museums, etc.
Consider Your Budget
Ultimately, your budget will define your holiday, from your choice of accommodation to activities. While you might yearn for a two-week-long vacation to a tropical paradise, you may have to settle for something a little more modest and cost-effective. Again, a staycation could be the answer - opting for one of the UK’s many beautiful coastal or rural locations could save you a great deal of money. Alternatively, you could take a risk and choose an affordable last-minute package holiday.
Ask For Recommendations
The best way to decide on the perfect holiday destination is to ask for recommendations. Friends and relatives with families of their own may be able to point you in the right direction in terms of ideal locations and cost-cutting packages. Use social media to join family groups where you can reach out to a varied community of parents for holiday advice. It may also be worth scouring travel information sites like Tripadvisor for unbiased reviews and recommendations.
Vaccinations
If you plan to travel outside the UK, you may need vaccinations. Along with up-to-date COVID vaccinations, you may require additional vaccinations to protect you against infections such as yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A. For example, you may need a vaccination for hepatitis A if you plan on travelling to areas where this infection is more common, such as some parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Central and South America.
Weather Appropriate Kids’ Clothes
When travelling abroad, keeping your children protected from weather extremes is essential. For hot, sunny climates, pack plenty of lightweight, breathable baby clothing to shield your infant’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Similarly, if you’re opting for a location with chillier weather - i.e. a skiing holiday - make sure each family member has enough thermal layers and waterproof garments to keep them warm and dry for the duration of your trip.
All-Inclusive Resorts
Many families favour all-inclusive resorts for several reasons - cost and convenience being two of the most significant factors. All-inclusive holiday packages generally comprise flights, accommodation, catering and activities, minimising the need for stressful holiday micromanagement. Many all-inclusive resorts cater for families with varying dietary requirements and offer entertainment and activities suitable for all ages, so it may be worth going all-inclusive for a hassle-free holiday where all bases are covered.
Pack Well For Your Journey
When it comes to holidays, getting there isn’t always half the fun. Long journeys and large families are a recipe for disaster - restless children, flight complications, misplaced passports - you’d be forgiven for dreading the journey. However, preparation is the key to comfortable, successful and untroubled travel. Pack your kids’ essentials into a robust, convenient travel bag with plenty of pockets and compartments for easy access. Keep little ones entertained with toys and puzzles, and never be afraid to ask the airport staff for a helping hand if you feel overwhelmed.
Organise House Sitting
Nothing is worse than worrying about home security when you’re supposed to be relaxing with your family. While you may have checked the locks, lights and oven several times over before leaving the house, silencing that internal voice of doubt can be tricky. Organising a house sitter could do wonders for your peace of mind, as you can be sure your property is safe and protected while you’re away. Additionally, house sitters can care for your pets, saving you from having to book them into a kennel or cattery.