Family Holidays

Family holidays can be a cruel twist of fate. What is supposed to be a relaxing, rejuvenating break that the whole family can enjoy often turns into a frustrating, tiring experience for everyone.

Whether it is financial worries, too much time spent together, the wrong amount of activity, or even simply one member of the family being out of their element, holidays are a minefield of stressors.

The following family holiday hints should make your next holiday a walk in the park!

Discuss Your Holiday with the Whole Family

Though obviously you are the one with veto power, soliciting your kids’ opinions on your next holiday may help keep disputes to a minimum later. Rather than asking your children where they would like to go specifically, consider asking:

  • What they would like to do on their next holiday.
  • What they would not like to do on their next holiday.
  • If they prefer to go on holiday in the summer or the winter.
  • If they prefer sightseeing in cities or lying on the beach.
  • If they think they would enjoy an active or adventure holiday.
  • What has been their favourite family holiday so far?

Set a Budget before You Begin

The cost of a family holiday may be enough to set your stress levels rising before you even begin to pack. To head off this extra stress, this year set a budget and stick to it. Once you know how much you want to spend, begin tallying up:

  • Transport costs.
  • Accommodation fees.
  • Reasonable food budgets.
  • Expenditures for sightseeing.
  • Outlay for new clothes, toys, or books to bring with you.
  • Miscellaneous extras.

Take Age into Account

Regardless of the enthusiasm your kids have before you set off, or the budget you determine you can afford, take a good hard look at the ages of everyone involved in your holiday.

Even if your three year old enjoys finger painting, is he really old enough to sit quietly for a tour of the Louvre? Ask yourself:

  • How mature are your children?
  • Can your children sit quietly when asked?
  • Are you children old enough to entertain themselves?
  • Are you children old enough to travel, sightsee or visit a beach alone?
  • Does anyone need a kids’ club or babysitter?
  • Is anyone in your group young enough, or old enough, to require naps?
  • Is anyone in your group young enough, or old enough, to make being active a problem?

Consider Holidaying in the UK

Often in the rush to book a family holiday, many parents forget that great breaks can still be had in the UK.

If you are interested in cutting down on travel time and airport lines, think about booking into a British holiday park, where you’ll find plenty to do for all the family.

Find a Travel Agent You Can Trust

Travel agents are the travel and tourism professionals, and will have many ideas on what will make a great holiday for you and your family. Try checking for family holiday packages with varoius travel agents to get the best deal.

Regardless of where you go or what you do, a family holiday should first and foremost be fun and relaxing. Tailor your next holiday to your family’s interests, abilities and budget and get set for a brilliant break!

See Also
British museum
Great Days Out
Holiday with grandparent
Holidays and Other Special Days