Planning the perfect family holiday is no easy feat. There’s so much to consider, from where to go and how to get there to what you’ll do during your stay to make the most of your trip. Not to mention needing to keep several different people happy - each with their own ideas about what makes a getaway ‘fun’!
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some tips on how to create an unforgettable holiday that caters to every family member’s interests, ensuring a fun-filled and memorable experience for everyone.
Choose the Perfect Destination For All Ages
The first step is to select a destination that offers a range of activities suitable for all ages, from theme parks for youngsters to cultural experiences for adults. A lot of this will depend on the ages of children you’re travelling with.
For very young kids, it’s a good idea to stick to tried-and-tested family-friendly resorts, where baby equipment is included as standard. This saves you from having to pack everything but the kitchen sink in your suitcase and helps you avoid excess baggage fees. You’ll also be able to relax more, knowing that your fellow holidaymakers are other families who won’t be fazed by a crying baby or the occasional toddler tantrum!
For older children, you’ll want to consider their personalities and interests. How will they handle waiting in long queues? Will they cope with very hot weather? Will they want kids their own age to play with?
If your child is confident in water, then opting for holiday accommodation with a pool or near to a waterpark can make all the difference and means you’ll always have a fall-back option for entertainment or something to come back to after a day of sightseeing.
Plan Engaging Activities for Everyone
If some family members enjoy sightseeing or staying busy, while others prefer to kick back and relax, try to ensure that your itinerary leaves ample time for both. That way, the go-getters won’t be bored and those wanting to unwind won’t feel rushed off their feet by a busy schedule!
There can be a temptation to try to fit as much as possible in during your stay, to try and make the most of your time but often the best holiday memories are made during down-time or unplanned activities so try to avoid over-scheduling and leave room for spontaneous adventures like exploring sandy coves or local markets.
If you like the idea of trying something new, then adventure holidays can be a great bonding experience for families. For example, a skiing holiday in Bulgaria can be an exciting way to learn a new skill together whilst also leaving plenty of down-time that can be spent however you like. Whether that’s getting a spa treatment, enjoying a hot chocolate and an impromptu snowball fight, or living it up aprés ski.
Find Family-Friendly Accommodation with Amenities
Accommodation plays a vital role in creating a smooth experience on any family holiday. Opt for family-friendly resorts, self-catering villas, or hotels with child-friendly amenities such as pools, playgrounds and kids clubs.
Knowing that you have a safe, comfortable base to retreat to after a busy day means you can stick to mealtime, naptime and bedtime schedules for younger children as much as needed, and also helps keep older children entertained while offering parents some much-needed downtime.
Capture Memories with Fun Surprises and Special Moments
It’s good to have a rough plan of what you’ll do each day but unexpected surprises are a great way to keep things feeling fresh and spontaneous during your holiday.
Unplanned excursions can be anything from a day out at a waterpark, a scuba-diving lesson or a walk along the beach to get ice cream before bed. These little touches create excitement and ensure lasting memories, making the trip extra special for the whole family.
