In the words of good old Cliff Richard:
“We’re all going on a summer holiday, no more working for a week or two. Fun and laughter on our summer holiday, no more worries for me or you, for a week or two”
You’re going on your first holiday with your new family! But what should you do to prepare for your trip?
What to Pack
- Don’t bother packing buckets and spades, these can be picked up cheaply abroad and this won’t waste your luggage allowance.
- High factor sun cream is a must as children burn much more easily than adults. Hats and sunglasses are also a great idea.
- A medical kit is something you should always pack whether travelling with kids or not. Plasters, paracetamol and bug spray are musts.
- A camera to take lots of photos. As a first holiday as a new family, you’re sure to want to have plenty of images to remember it by.
- A night light – can your little one sleep without one?
- Divide everyone’s clothing between each of the suitcases. This way if one gets lost in transit no one will be without something to wear.
Travelling
Travelling with babies or young children ca n be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Children can get bored very easily and no one likes the confinement, so make sure to take plenty of activities to keep them busy and distracted.
Travel games, colouring books and puzzles are classics, or if you own a tablet of portable games consoles these can also be great – especially if you can play a favourite film.
Night flights are also a good idea as they are likely to sleep through the trip.
Food and drink is also a must, so make sure to carry enough milk for babies and snacks for younger children, for the duration of the trip.
If you will be taking a pushchair perhaps opt for a lighter and cheaper one as it will need to be stored in the luggage hold. This will be more convenient and if it gets slightly damaged in transit it won’t matter as much.
Once You’ve Arrived
When you arrive it is important to get a lie of the land and to get out there and explore the area where you will be staying. Suss out where the local supermarket is for essential food runs and pick up plenty of leaflets for day trips and nearby attractions. It is important to have something to do if the weather does turn bad.
Everything will take longer with kids compared to when you’re on your own, but this is a good thing. A holiday is all about relaxing and taking it easy after all.
Do you feel a little more prepared now? Don’t stress, enjoy! And don’t forget to send us a picture of you enjoying yourselves on Twitter @AdoptWales.