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OK, so you can no longer just throw a few things in an overnight bag and head off for the weekend ... but travelling with children doesn’t have to be a complete nightmare (honest!)
If you don’t have much room in your car or are taking the train, you can hire cots, push chairs, bath equipment, and high chairs. Companies will hire them for any amount of time from 1 day to 1 month.
Audio books are a great way to keep children (and adults) amused on long car journeys.
Children on a sugar high in a car for long periods of time are a recipe for disaster. Think about taking cereal bars, fruit and bottles of water for children to snack on in the car, easier said than done we know.
Remember all children need their own passports.
If your child turns two while you are away, don’t forget to buy them a ticket for the return journey – most airlines make you buy a separate seat for children of 2 and over.
No space in your luggage? There are companies that will arrange for all of your usual nappies, milk, food and equipment such as cot, pushchair and child seat to be delivered to your resort.
Take any favourite toys and comfort blankets in your hand luggage.
Some budget airlines no longer give families priority boarding as they charge for this service. It is worth checking when you book your flights.
Little presents for children to open at regular intervals on long journeys help pass the time. Pencils, paper, colouring books and crayons are ideal.
Give older children a disposable camera so that they can keep their own record of the holiday.
Don’t forget to take a parasol or all in one sunshade for the pushchair and sun blinds for the car.
Babies and children’s skin is very sensitive to sun, so don’t forget the sun cream and hats. Consider buying some sun protection factor 50 clothing and children’s sunglasses.
Take some sick bags from the plane just in case your child feels sick in the hire car.
Pack basic medicines such as linctus, calamine lotion, teething gel, and tummy upset tablets.
Children can get disorientated in strange places and can wander off in completely the wrong direction. For extra peace of mind, pack some identity bracelets, suitable for children 2 years and over. They come in a variety of styles, both single use and reusable. Simply write your child’s name and your mobile number so that you can be reunited quickly if you unfortunately get separated.
Take extra milk, nappies and food in your hand luggage just in case you are delayed at the airport.
From The Kids Window