Your Guide to a Stress Free Family Holiday Abroad
A family break should be a chance for you to enjoy some quality time away together. The chances are though, when you say the words 'family holiday' you think tired and teary toddlers, juggling bags and babies, and tantrums at the terminal. But it doesn't need to be that way! We've put together a few simple tips to help you have a stress-free and relaxing family holiday. Just the way it should be.
Getting to the Airport
Getting to the airport can often be the most stressful part of a holiday and one of the best things you can do to keep little ones entertained is to make the airport an adventure.
If your children have their own mini suitcase to pack and carry, you'll find they take great pride in looking after it and picking it up at baggage reclaim. Trunki make great suitcases for kids that they can pack and ride around themselves. It also means one less bag for you to carry!
Bring games with you to keep your children entertained while you're waiting to check in or board. When travelling as a family you'll want to allow plenty of time at the airport so may find you're waiting around longer than usual. There's nothing worse than your children complaining of boredom and getting agitated while you're trying to check in or find your departure gate.
On the Plane
Depending on the distance you're travelling, children can get very bored on planes and will quickly become fidgety - they won't like the idea of staying in their seat! Try and make the flight as exciting as possible - you could bring out a new game or toy as a surprise during the flight. We all know children can be fussy eaters at times and there's a chance they won't like the food provided for them on the flight. Bring their favourite snacks or drinks with you to keep them satisfied. Just remember to check what you can bring on the flight - the BAA have made a helpful list of items that are allowed.
You should also check ahead with the airline to se what provisions they have for children, such as games and colouring books. No-one wants to be the parent with the crying baby on-board and it's amazing what wonders a new toy can do!
On Holiday
When you're going away as a family you obviously want to ensure you're having fun together and that there's plenty to keep both the adults and the kids entertained. Try and book a holiday that has adequate childcare provisions.
Look for a holiday company that caters for babies as well as older children. You'll enjoy your holiday a lot more if you get the chance to have a quiet meal or two to yourselves and for this kids clubs can be invaluable. Mark Warner's activity holidays offer daytime activities and evening entertainment, leaving you free to enjoy a romantic evening or two.
If you're travelling with babies, it's important that you have all the brands and products you're used to. This either means packing extra, bulky items in your already heaving luggage, or hoping relying on the available products on holiday. Tiny Tots Away is a great service that will deliver baby products to your accommodation abroad, eliminating one of the more trickier parts of travelling with a baby.
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