Getting out and about during the summer holidays can be an incredibly fine art when you have a big family because there are so many people to please, but logistically it can also be a nightmare. A family holiday is something that we should do, and when there are so many kids or we have extended family that wants to come along, we’ve got to make sure that we get the balance right where we are preparing enough but also making sure it’s as stress-free as possible. So what does it really take to ensure that you have a great family holiday when it feels like you are in Cheaper by the Dozen?
This is a collaborative post.
Look for Group Holidays
One of the big mistakes people can make is opting for family holiday packages; however, group holidays can be an excellent solution here. When you are booking a combination, look for properties that are designed for large groups because they offer amenities like multiple bedrooms, separate living areas, and a kitchenette to accommodate everyone comfortably. It’s also worth looking at the transport situation while you are at it, and you may benefit from renting a larger vehicle if you are a big family that doesn’t have a people carrier. Mercury Rent-A-Car offer car and van hire options so you can get exactly what you need. When you rent a vehicle, it can also make things a lot easier on you because you don’t have to worry about getting a poor-quality car; it will actually go the distance! You also might want to sort out your internet and calling options for all the family, before you go. Have a look at Roami’s website for an easy way to keep everyone connected whilst away.
Hunt for Self-Catering Options
Rather than booking an expensive hotel, self-catering is an excellent option for big families because it provides more space and flexibility and allows you to save money by cooking some meals at home. There are always solutions like Airbnb and other alternatives that make it far more cost-effective. Also, think about taking a few items that make the catering part of self-catering easier. For example, you may benefit from getting an air fryer, especially if you go to the accommodation and the oven is barely able to cook a small pizza!
Book as Early as Possible
It may sound obvious, but you’ve got to reserve your accommodation and transport as soon as you can because this will get you the best deals. What’s more, you’ve got to set a realistic budget for your holiday, and more importantly, you have to stick to it! When you factor in the entire cost, you can then start to put money aside earlier on. Perhaps you could benefit from putting money in a savings account with a higher interest rate so when it comes to withdrawing that money, at the very least you have a little bit more on it, which could make all the difference! When you book early, you can also spread those payments over time, and this doesn’t feel so stressful.
With some creative planning and an open mindset, larger families can absolutely enjoy some amazing holidays together. It’s about being practical, of course, but also about managing expectations around things like bedtimes, meal times, and even screen times. Everyone’s on holiday, so everyone has the right to enjoy themselves.
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