Family travel gives you a chance to experience the world
through their eyes, and give them a hands-on education about
new countries and cultures. Or you may just be looking for a
relaxing overseas holiday with the kids. Just follow our
top five tips on travelling with children
, and experience the best the world has to offer for family
fun.
1.
Be prepared
The days of spontaneous travel are gone. Travelling with
kids, especially little ones, requires some serious
planning. Make a checklist of everything you need to bring
(don't forget teddy!), book car hire and accommodation
in advance and research activities that will keep the kids
amused when you get there.
2.
Travel as light as you can
As tempting as it is to pack absolutely everything you
migh
t need, you don't want to be struggling through an
airport with four huge suitcases, all that baby equipment
and two tired children. Many destinations have car seats,
travel cots, strollers and even toys for hire.
Do
think about taking:
· A small torch or battery nightlight
· Copies of all your travel documents, passports,
insurance and children's birth certificates
· A new small toy (or something they've forgotten
about), stickers and crayons
· Extra formula and nappies for babies (they might be
different or hard to find in your holiday destination)
· A cheap disposable camera (or digital camera) for
your child to record their own holiday memories
Check out our tips on
flying with small children
for advice on what to take on board. And
remember that it's easy to be distracted when
you're looking after children, so try to keep your
luggage secure at all times.
3. Give yourself some room
Self-catering accommodation is easiest for families –
especially if the jet-lag munchies strike at odd hours. Try
to get two rooms so you also have some grown-up space when
the kids are asleep. One large room that can be divided off
allows you a chance to watch TV or read.
If you're staying at a resort, check to see if they
have a kids club or babysitting services if you want some
‘me' time as well.
4. Make every adventure count
Even the plane trip itself is an adventure for kids. So are
train journeys, bus rides and ferries. Relax and enjoy it
with them – and don't worry about delays or
small inconveniences. Check our
unusual transport for travel
advice [internal link to article] for some different ideas.
Plan an activity for every day – but don't
expect to fit too much in. Like all travellers, you need to
expect the unexpected. And like all parents, you have to
know your child's limitations.
5. A kid-friendly finale
End the trip with an exciting activity for the whole family
– something to look forward to, and also something to
remind them about if their enthusiasm wanes mid-travels.
Examples include a trip to a theme park or waterpark, the
zoo, a boat-ride or special dinner. Ask your hotel for
ideas, or search online before you go.
And most importantly, make sure you take out
travel insurance
for the whole
family. That way, you can make sure that any travel delays,
cancellations or luggage problems won't spoil those
priceless family holiday memories!
