Family and child-friendly holidays
focus on shared experiences that balance fun, comfort and
flexibility. This page shares helpful things to know before you go —
from choosing suitable destinations and accommodation to planning
activities and travel that work for children.
Travelling with children brings joy, laughter and unforgettable moments — but it also comes with different rhythms and priorities. Days often revolve around meals, rest times and shorter activity windows rather than packed schedules.
Understanding this helps set realistic expectations. Family holidays work best when plans are adaptable and focused on shared enjoyment rather than trying to do everything.
Not all destinations are equally family-friendly. Travel time, climate, transport ease and available activities all shape how comfortable the trip feels.
Destinations with variety tend to work well, offering a mix of child-friendly attractions, relaxed spaces and options for adults too. Familiar comforts often make holidays more enjoyable for younger travellers.
Accommodation choice plays a huge role in family comfort. Space to relax, sleep routines and practical layouts all influence how smoothly days and nights go.
Family-friendly accommodation often prioritises convenience over luxury. Separate sleeping areas, kitchens or nearby facilities can make a noticeable difference to everyone’s mood.
Children enjoy variety but also need downtime. Over-planning activities can lead to tiredness rather than fun.
Balancing organised activities with free play, rest and simple experiences keeps energy levels steady. Sometimes the most memorable moments come from unplanned time together.
Family packing tends to be more practical than minimal. Comfort items, familiar snacks and everyday essentials help children settle more easily.
Preparing thoughtfully reduces stress on arrival. Having what you need close at hand often makes travel days smoother and more relaxed.
Mealtimes can shape the day when travelling with children. Dining options, food familiarity and timing all matter more than usual.
Flexible approaches work best. Mixing local cuisine with familiar choices helps everyone enjoy meals without pressure or fuss.
Journeys can feel longer with children, especially when routines are disrupted. Transitions between locations often require extra patience.
Allowing buffer time and breaks helps manage energy and expectations. Calm travel days often set the tone for the rest of the holiday.
Parents naturally prioritise safety and reassurance when travelling. Familiar routines, clear boundaries and calm planning all support peace of mind.
Simple awareness — knowing where facilities are or planning meeting points — helps families relax and focus on enjoyment rather than worry.
Family holidays rarely go exactly to plan — and that’s normal. Children’s moods, weather and energy levels all influence the experience.
Letting go of perfection allows space for genuine enjoyment. Flexibility often turns small challenges into stories everyone laughs about later.
Choose destinations with short travel times: Easier for children.
Prioritise accommodation space: Comfort improves sleep and mood.
Plan fewer activities per day: Energy levels vary.
Build in rest time: Downtime prevents overtiredness.
Pack familiar comfort items: They help children settle.
Keep snacks accessible: Hunger affects moods quickly.
Mix child-friendly and adult activities: Balance matters.
Stay flexible with schedules: Routines shift while travelling.
Check child facilities in advance: Pools, lifts and play areas help.
Use transport wisely: Reduce unnecessary movement.
Allow buffer time on travel days: Everything takes longer.
Let children have choices: It boosts engagement.
Expect noise and mess: It’s part of family travel.
Keep days simple: Enjoyment beats packed plans.
Plan meals thoughtfully: Timing matters.
Stay patient during transitions: Change can be tiring.
Choose safety over speed: Comfort first.
Lower expectations gently: Holidays aren’t perfect days.
Focus on shared moments: That’s the goal.
Enjoy seeing destinations through their eyes: It’s part of the magic.
Family and child-friendly holidays are about togetherness, discovery and shared joy — not perfection. With thoughtful planning, flexibility and realistic expectations, these trips become meaningful experiences that children remember long after the journey ends.
Discover family holidays designed to balance comfort, activities and shared experiences. Explore options that make it easy for everyone to enjoy the journey.