Ever had a family holiday that felt more like an endurance test than a relaxing break? You’re not alone. Here are my family holiday top tips on how to actually enjoy yourselves!
The Most Important Family Holiday Tips
Finding an activity that all your children want to do at the same time is like trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle in the dark.
With your hands tied behind your back.
You might get there in the end, but honestly, you may be so exhausted that you’ll wonder if it was even worth it.
All is not lost though, there are things you can do to make your holiday enjoyable for everyone…
Tip 1. Stop Comparing It To Everyone Else’s Family Holiday, Alright?
The rise of social media makes it so much easier to feel like you aren’t doing everything that you ought to, and that other families are doing so much better than yours.
The secret is, though, that they aren’t.
One a side note, this is a very common thought, and one that I was personally having a lot.
That’s why I don’t use social media for personal reasons anymore – it was causing way too many feels of that nature that I just got rid. I feel a lot better for having done it.
Anyway, back to the reason I am writing this article…
That perfect snap of four happy smiling faces in front of the Eiffel Tower was most likely preceded by cajoling and bribery to get the kids to stand still and take a nice picture, followed by a tantrum afterwards.
The images you are seeing on Instagram are also not the real story.
If you compare your family to others you will rob yourself of the joy of experiencing your own life.
The important thing is that you have the holiday that is right for your family, even if it doesn’t look great in pictures or give you bragging rights.
By holding yourself up to impossible standards, you are asking for disappointment when you can’t meet them.
Tip 2. Plan To Do Things With Your Family That You’ll Actually All Enjoy
… instead of things you think they should enjoy.
Involve your children in planning your trip and get their input on what activities they would like to do.
Not only will this mean you have a plan for how you are going to spend your time, but it will improve your relationship with your children too because asking their opinion will make them feel important. Then when traveling in the UK you need to find some indoor activities due to the likely terrible weather.
Remember that adventure can be anything if you are learning and experiencing new things!
You could have a truly magical day going on a walk and stopping to look at the new species of insects you find, for example.
You don’t have to drag everyone around a crowded amusement park if this doesn’t align with your family’s personality types.
Tip 3. Keep Stress Levels To A Minimum
Simplifying your holiday can be a great way to lower your stress levels!
Going abroad is great, but dealing with airports and flying with children in tow can be much less so.
There are some truly wonderful experiences to be had in the UK, which you can get to just by packing up the car and hitting the road.
Holiday homes remove a lot of stress because they mean you have a base to go back to when you are out exploring, and it means you will get to know a community and the local area so you know what to expect.
Taking uncertainty out of the equation leaves you free to simply enjoy each other’s company.
I have a static caravan at a coastal location, and we go multiple times a year for the day, or for a few days.
We have made so many happy memories there, and we have not felt the need to go abroad in a couple of years now.
Tip 4. Plan How You’re Going To Feed The Family On Holiday In Advance
Going the self-catering route is probably one of the best things you can do to avoid stress when you’re on holiday.
Trudging around, looking for somewhere to eat with tired and hungry children dragging their feet isn’t fun for anyone!
If you do fancy eating out, consider doing it at lunchtime rather than in the evening.
Your children will be less tired and (hopefully) in a better mood; plus, restaurants often have cheaper pricing during the day.
You’ll also be able to take your time and enjoy your food, rather than worrying about rushing for bedtime or eating much earlier than you would normally like to.
The Final Word On Family Holiday Tips
Remember, it’s your holiday, so it’s your choice what you and your family do. No comparing holidays with others, ok!
Including the family in the decision-making will excite everyone, and make them feel included.
Moreover, plan things you all ACTUALLY enjoy!
Consider holidaying closer to home, and exploring somewhere you’ve never been in the UK. This will lower travel-stress-levels and make for a more enjoyable trip!
Plan how you’re all going to eat in advance. Book tables, plan an online shop, stake out the local take aways or plan a timely family Gousto box (that’s what we take to our caravan so it’s all portioned up and ready to rock!)
Above all, enjoy each other’s company, and have fun!
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Last Updated on June 22, 2023 by Lucy Clarke
