Family holidays. An oxymoron? Once you’ve returned from a getaway, you might feel that you need another week off to compensate for the stressful time you’ve just had. Here are our best tips for making your family holiday easy and stress-free.
• Cut down on costs by choosing accommodation that offers value for money and provides all the basic essentials. Kids don’t need fancy extras like a concierge or valet parking, so save that for your own indulgent break away. Best Western offers quality accommodation and value for money, with great locations all over Australia and New Zealand.
• Don’t pack your itinerary with too many things to do. Kids need to rest – and have time for their own play. Plan one or two activities per day, and be flexible about changing your plans based on everyone’s wishes.
• If heading abroad, make sure you plan your vaccinations well in advance as some need to be taken up to six weeks before you travel.
• In some Australian states, children up to seven years of age must now be restrained in a booster seat or forward-facing restraint so when hiring a car, make sure they have these options available for your kids.
• No destination is off-limits. Don’t be worried about travelling with children to developing countries or regional areas. They will usually adapt to new experiences fairly quickly.
• There’s no need to over pack but don’t forget necessities like sunscreen, baby paracetamol, wipes and any special medication.
• Kids can get bored easily – so make them a part of the action. Buy each child an inexpensive disposable camera so they can take pictures. Your kids will really feel special when they can snap their own photos. They'll also love the resulting photos they can later use in a memory book of the trip.
• Have fun – holidays are about enjoying yourself, and although there might be tantrums and tears, they’re usually overcome by some quiet time out or a playful distraction.