Five Top Tips for a Happy Family Holiday
Christmas is over and we’re excited about all that the year ahead holds. As the dark winter nights leave us dreaming of summer holidays, here are five tips for a worry-free family holiday covering everything from the planning stages until you’re unpacking your suitcases when you return home.
Be Realistic
We are all guilty of daydreaming about the perfect holiday. It looks different for everyone, but maybe your ideal trip away is sipping cocktails by the pool, without a care in the world, under bright blue skies. If you have toddlers, the likelihood is your reality will be different – especially if you don’t have the help of extended family or a kids’ club. Perhaps you love the idea of climbing Snowdon as a family, but you know your teenager complains when it comes to exercise.
Consider the make-up of your family when planning your holiday. It’s not possible to meet everyone’s needs all the time but it saves unnecessary stresses if you have realistic expectations.
Stick to the Budget
With the rising cost of living, it is more important than ever to stay on top of your budget. When booking your holiday, don’t stretch to more than you can comfortably afford. Take this mentality on holiday with you too, you won’t be able to enjoy yourself if you’re anxious you’ve overspent.
Be Prepared
Preparation is key when travelling as a family, regardless of the age of your children. Meeting their basic needs is a must. It sounds obvious, but when you are rushing around an airport it can be easy to forget that children won’t have the same rush of adrenalin that’s keeping your energy levels up. Have snacks and drinks on hand, give regular prompts for using the toilets and, if they’re tired and it’s feasible, allow them to sleep. If your children are small, have a bag of tricks handy with colouring books, favourite small toys, and an iPad/tablet. Don’t forget their comforter if they have one!
Rock-Solid Home
When you’re away the last thing you want to be doing is worrying about your home. Ask a neighbour, friend or relative to keep an eye on your house (including feeding the fish or watering the plants) while you are away. Make sure your home insurance NI is up to date just in case the worst happens in your absence and keep your home insurance policy details in a safe place – it can be a good idea to email copies of the documents to yourself. And don’t forget to turn on the alarms before you leave and lock all the windows and doors!
Separate Dirty and Clean Clothes
Coming home to piles of dirty washing is a low point of any holiday. Ideally, wash your clothes as you go if your accommodation has the facilities. If not, the next best thing is to separate your clothes into two piles – clean and dirty. Load the dirties into the washing machine as soon as you get home – you’ll feel better for it!
When travelling as a family, the most important thing is to enjoy it. Make memories to last a lifetime and look back on with a smile.
