Family vacations are the ideal way to spend quality time with your spouse and kids. And while the thought of being together can be exciting and inviting, it can also become a stressful and exhausting task ensuring it goes off without a hitch.
With so many options available regarding holiday location, hotel amenities and fun activities, you can quickly feel overwhelmed and miss your home comforts like RJ’s range of round bedside tables and your dreamy lounge sofa. But don’t panic just yet. Planning your next family holiday can be an enjoyable task.
Set a Budget
When planning a holiday, it is very easy to get lost in the excitement of the trip and end up way over budget. This can significantly limit your spending on your holiday, forcing you to compromise on activities and souvenirs you may not want to give up.
For this reason, set a firm budget when planning and booking, and adhere to it as much as possible. You may find that all-inclusive packages are more expensive initially but prove to be more cost-effective in the long run.
Family rooms will cost more than standard deluxe rooms, but a coupon code found on a travel website can get you an upgrade for no additional cost.
Hotel Location
One of the most important decisions you will make when planning your next family holiday is its location. If you plan to go to the beach, decide whether to stay waterside or a few blocks away. For a new or unfamiliar location, you might feel more comfortable within the city centre or somewhere quieter around its outskirts.
If your hotel is close to an airport, you can avoid the hassle of last-minute airport transfers, which can be difficult with small kids in tow. Alternatively, check with the hotel if they have shuttle services that can take you to famous landmarks, popular tourist destinations and the airport if needed.
Must-Have Amenities
Every family is unique, requiring a different set-up that may not be suitable for another. For this reason, you should list the hotel amenities you will require, dividing them between non-negotiables and those you can live without.
Depending on the age of your kids, you may want to stay in the same room or have separate or adjoining rooms. A balcony or view deck can offer you and your spouse some alone time once the kids are asleep. If your child still requires a crib or bed cot, ensure the hotel can provide these.
Most family-friendly hotels offer a kids club, with activities to occupy your little ones if you plan to spend most of your time at the hotel. Check whether a club is on offer and verify what activities they provide. It is best to ask for specific details, including additional fees or age requirements.
A pool is typically an essential hotel feature and can be a defining factor for your entire trip. Check whether the hotel has a pool and if one is dedicated to kids. Other services like in-house laundry facilities and dining options are important for large families or members with specific dietary needs. These can be discussed with the hotel directly.
Consider Size Requirements
Depending on the size of your family, you will want to choose accommodation that can comfortably be home to everyone. For example, if you have small children, a room with two double beds or connecting rooms will allow you to watch over them without compromising bed space and sleep.
If your family is larger, opting for a rental or houseboat may be the best option. These options typically come with multiple rooms and bathrooms, giving the entire family plenty of space to spread out and enjoy.
Do Your Research
Thanks to the wonders of the internet, everything you will need to know prior to setting off is available online. So make the most of this and research your travel location, hotel and activities in the area. This is also the ideal time to read over reviews and feedback from previous guests to give you the best idea on whether your choice is as family-friendly as you think and the general operation of the hotel itself.
If you have selected a holiday destination known for famous landmarks, specific tourist sites or good weather, you can double-check whether these factors are worth the selection. Finally, you can do additional research on the city or country you are visiting.
Use a Trustworthy Booking Site
Always use a trustworthy and accredited booking site when booking your flights and accommodation. They will provide various options to choose from and typically include great deals on rooms, amenities and flights. You just need to give them the dates you want to travel, and they will do the hard work for you.
Read all the small print while using these sites to guarantee you don’t miss any important details that could affect your holiday.
Ask for Input
Considering it is a family vacation, including all the family members in the decision-making, particularly about the hotel, will be appropriate. Your partner or spouse should be the first person you consult regarding their amenities and room requirements preferences.
You should discuss anything that is considered a non-negotiable and ensure you agree on these crucial matters. If your children are at an age where they can express their desires and preferences, it is a good idea to talk to them about what they hope to have. This is particularly important for older kids.
