Going on vacation as a family can feel very different from solo traveling or holidaying as a couple. While it can be great fun, there are some important things to consider before you set off, so check out these tips on sorting a vacation as a family.
Child-Friendly Destination
It goes without saying that you don’t want to check into an adult-only hotel with a screaming toddler in tow, but when you’re planning a family vacation you really want to make sure that your destination will suit everyone. Often, this means booking into an all-inclusive hotel, because then you don’t have to worry about sourcing food or entertainment for your little ones. Make sure the climate isn’t going to be too hot or too cold for the time of year you’re visiting, as this can also impact children more intensely than adults.
School Holidays
Unfortunately, going on holiday during the school holidays can cost a lot more than jetting off even the week before. For many parents, it’s a case of weighing up the loss to their child’s education (and the possible risk of it going down as an unauthorized absence) with the financial impact of vacationing during the school holidays. It’s always cheaper to go in the fall and winter months, so one option may be to use one of the winter school vacations to jet off.
Activities
If you and your partner love hiking or visiting museums, you’ll have to be aware that your kids may not put up with these vacation activities for long. One option is to vacation with your parents or parents-in-law—in this way, the adults can take turns spending time with the kids and care for them, while the others get a break and a chance to explore your holiday destination.