Top tips for travelling with children

Travelling with children is actually much easier than you might think...and I have twins so I really do know what type of challenges you may encounter along the way..... Let me share with a few of my top travelling with children tips.

• Children (or indeed my children) tend to love to snack. Pre-purchasing stuff before you go will save you money and guarantee that you can access the stuff that they really like! Make sure you remember to have easy access throughout the flight.
• Pre-purchase a novelty item like a sticker book, colouring book or indeed something to read that haven‘t seen before - the novelty will take at least a few minutes to wear off!!
• Download the TV or films that your children love. Never rely on what the airline may have available on their entertainment system - you need to be sure you have their favourites.
• Children love to be independent and my children absolutely adored their "Trunkies" although any brand will do - that way they can sit down during any waits and they also get to pack some of their own treasures.
• Pre-booking seats is a must if you can - even if it costs a little extra you can alleviate all the stress associated with worrying about where you are going to be sitting on the plane.
• There is often a value in favouring and paying for a private transfer over a shared transfer or coach - it means you cut out the stops en-route and go directly from the airport to your accommodation.
• If you haven't heard of a "bubble bum" you may want to google it - a "Bubble Bum" is a blow up seat that you can use for transfers or in a hire car. They won't suit babies but are suitable for children - check with me to see what the requirements are for your destination.
• A villa or self-catering holiday can be an amazing way to cater for multi generations. A lot of villas are on one level but check, if you are having a private pool, whether it's gated off.
• Keep any medication you might need at the top of your hand luggage.
• Travelling with babies is often easier than travelling with toddlers - don't be put off!
• Many destinations offer baby items that you can pre-order for your arrival - just a little research or a call to me will send you in the right direction.
• Pre-book any child care requirements at the earliest opportunity - these facilities often book up really early.
• If you have your sights set on visiting certain restaurants for key dates - pre-book where you can and advise early on if you need a high chair.
• Book early if you are trying to secure family suites or family rooms - these rooms are often limited in number so the earlier you book the better.
• Some companies will offer Free Child places - again these tend to go early so be prepared to commit early on in the season.
• Make sure you have sourced some great sunscreen in the UK before you depart - you know what quality you are getting and is liable to be cheaper too!
• If you are taking more than one case split the clothes up evenly just in case of baggage delays.

My children have always loved the beach and it has often been worth spending a little more to book a hotel with beach access or close to a beach. Happy children = very happy and relaxed parents. #makememoriesnow