Jet away stress free this Christmas
If you're planning a festive family holiday, we've come up with 10 top tips for a happy and hassle free journey.
1. Shop around - When you're booking, search for hotels or accommodation that offer special family discounts, some include free breakfast for children or discounted room rates
2. Beat the boredom - No matter how you travel or how far, your kids will no doubt become bored or frustrated. Distract them with ipods or mp3 players, portable dvd players or puzzles and games. Don't give them everything at once, let them be fascinated by one thing for a while before boredom sets in, then pass them the next.
3. Prepare your car - If you're driving, is your car ready for winter? Carry an essential tool kit of de-icer, a scraper and some old towels to combat freezing conditions. It's a good idea to check over your whole vehicle a few days before leaving to make sure the heaters etc. are all working
4. Kit out your car - Car seats are essential no matter how far you're travelling and extra rear-view mirrors can help you keep an eye on your children without having to turn around. Make sure you or your partner have a fully charged mobile phone in case of break downs or emergencies
5. Check in at home - If you're flying, some airports let you check in online before you leave and even choose your seats before you get there. Fast track your way through the airport to avoid long ques and hassle
7. Keep them hydrated - On your journey and whilst you're on holiday, have plenty of water and fluids available to keep your children hydrated
8. Research - If you're breastfeeding it's worth checking the local attitudes towards feeding in public in the country you're travelling to so you can be prepared
9. Avoid far-away destinations - Though it would be fantastic to take your infants to the Carribean, is it worth the long stressful flight and 2 days of jet-lag? The children won't know the difference between a tropical beach or a beach in Spain.
10. Pack an essential first aid kit-
Infant pain relief, eg Calpol
Box of plasters and antiseptic cream
Sun tan lotion and aftersun
Mosquito repellent
Antihistamine tablets/cream
Alexandra Baracskai