5 Things You Should Bring On Your Family Holiday

Taking a break from everyday life can be good for the whole family — but what if it doesn’t feel like a break? What if you come back from your holiday needing another one?

You can’t control everything, but you can boost your chances of actually getting a breather by packing some key essentials. From speeding up travel times to keeping an eye on kids who like to wander, we’ve got you covered.

(Photo by Jelleke Vanooteghem on Unsplash)

Essential travel documents

You’d be surprised how many people forget their documents — don’t be one of them! Take a quiet moment a day or so before you leave to triple-check you them, then pack them in your hand luggage. Knowing you have what you need will stop you from stressing out so and the check-in process will be quicker, which is always a bonus when you’re traveling with children.

What you need for a staycation:

• Driving license
• Train/bus tickets
• Booking details for your hotel/holiday home/campsite
• Travel insurance details

What you need for a holiday abroad:

• Passports
• Visas (if necessary)
• Train/coach/plane tickets
• Travel insurance details
• Proof of vaccinations (if you had to get them)
• Copies of prescriptions
• Proof of your relationship to your child (if you have a different surname)
• Booking details for your hotel/holiday home/campsite

A child locator

Yes, this is a tracker, and it will save you heaps of hassle. You attach one half of the wearable GPS locator to your child, keep the other half, and monitor their whereabouts should they stray from you, or if they’re old enough to have a little independence. Most trackers will alert you if the device is removed, and some even allow two-way calling, allowing you to reassure your child if need be (and keep your own peace of mind, too).

(Photo by Daiga Ellaby on Unsplash)

An enormous bag for everyday essentials

A longer packing list is inevitable when you have children, so buy a lightweight bag which has room for everything you’ll need throughout the day.

What to take:

• Drinks and snacks
• Hats
• SPF (no matter what the weather, especially important in sunnier climates)
• Insect repellent
• A small first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic cream, diarrhea treatment, and painkillers for adults and children. If you’re going abroad, check if any medications are prohibited before you pack them.

Whether you prefer a backpack or a shoulder bag, make sure it’s secure in order to avoid attracting the attention of thieves and pickpockets.

Seasonal clothes and shoes that fit

Whether you need swimwear for the beach and/or pool, outdoor clothes for camping, or warm layers for skiing, check that everything fits your child before it goes in the suitcase, just in case they’ve had a growth spurt. If your accommodation has laundry facilities then you’ll be able to pack fewer items, saving you valuable suitcase space.

Entertainment

Keeping little ones occupied can feel like a full-time job in itself, especially when they’re getting used to unfamiliar surroundings and are more likely to act up. Having some favorite books and games to hand is a good way to calm them down and help them feel more settled — you could even bring a favorite toy or blanket (just remember to keep them in your hand luggage and take them with you after traveling!)

• Beach holiday? Don’t forget buckets and spades!
• Spending time by the pool? Pack armbands and pool inflatables so your child can stay safe as they splash around.
• Sleeping under canvas? Outdoor games like football will be fun for everyone. (Make sure your campsite allows ball games first.)

It can feel like there’s a lot to think about pre-holiday but keep this guide handy and you’ll be ready before you know it. Happy traveling!

Writing credit-   Dan Greene sir.jordan.greene@gmail.com