Planning a family summer getaway can be exciting, although sometimes a little stressful when you’re travelling with children, but don’t panic…not only do we offer a plethora of coach breaks for which we’ve done all the planning for you, but we’ve put together some top tips in order to help you achieve ultimate peace of mind. From packing essentials to entertainment, this blog aims to ensure it’s a memorable getaway for all the right reasons!
Book in advance
In today’s busy world, it’s easy for us to promise ourselves we’ll get round to booking the family holiday - until you’ve blinked, the summer holidays have arrived and nothing is in the diary!
Be sure to book in advance and guarantee your preferred travel dates and seats on the coach - this is especially important if you’re holidaying during peak seasons.
Make sure to pack appropriately
We’re all guilty of overpacking, feeling like we need to pack everything but the kitchen sink with the ‘I’ll take it just in case’ mindset championing us along.
Make a packing list - tick everything off as you go to ensure you don't forget your essentials and more importantly make packing for the return journey so much easier. Also be sure to pack light, check your trip itinerary and plan accordingly, make sure to leave some room for souvenirs and other goodies from your trip.
The weather is like a box of chocolates, we never truly know what we’re going to get, so check the forecast before you go and pack weather appropriate - we’ll keep our fingers crossed it doesn’t change its mind!
Bring entertainment for the coach
For everyone's sanity, no one wants to hear ‘are we nearly there yet?’ every five minutes and we understand it can feel a chore in itself keeping everyone entertained!
Grab your portable devices (laptops, tablets) and discover the vast range of downloadable TV shows, movies, podcasts and music, just don’t forget those all important headphones. For those who are less tech inclined, or perhaps feel woozy at the thought of looking at a screen whilst travelling, opt for more gentile alternatives; magazines, colouring in books or travel games. Remember to put all these items in an easily accessible small bag so you don’t need to start searching through your suitcase.
Remember to sit back and relax - this is your holiday too and, you may even make some friends along the way, after all there’s nothing quite like bonding over the shared love of calm children!
Snacks and drinks
We’re here to remind you that you don’t need to pack the kitchen cupboards when it comes to snacks and drinks for the journey!
Hydration is key; pack refillable water bottles for the family. Our coach holidays include comfort stops along the way, the chance for a refill and a leg stretch..Take healthier snacks - avoid the dreaded sugar crash and keep the journey smooth with cleaner snacks such as; fresh fruit and snack bars. Pre-pack snacks for each family member - avoid any potential ownership squabbles and lessen the risk of spills.
Consider the other passengers and the coach driver when deciding on travel snacks, save messy or smelly food for a later date and allow yourself the peace of mind that everyone is fed and happy.
Respect other passengers
Respect other passengers; we can all help enable a positive atmosphere on the coach to allow for a relaxing journey.
Low noise levels - no mean feat when it comes to children, we empathise, but hopefully you have enough pre-planned entertainment to keep them occupied. Remember personal space, be aware of others but most importantly be aware of your own, keep yourself tidy and together and pick up any rubbish your family may create.
Make memories
Ultimately we want you to have fun, enjoy a relaxing break with your family and create long lasting memories. One of the best ways to do so is by stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Our coach holidays include a fantastic Family Fun range such as; Safari Parks, Harry Potter Studio Tour, Disneyland Paris, Cadbury World, LEGOLAND Windsor - and with so many more on offer we’ve catered for everyone's getaway desires!
Oh, and did we mention? Children aged 2-12 years get 10% off of coach holidays included in our Family Fun range.
Take the stress out of family holidays with National Holidays!
After reading this blog we now certify you a stress-free holiday expert. So pack your bags, assemble your family, and get ready to make incredible travel memories together with National Holidays.