A family trip abroad can be the holiday of your dreams, with the opportunity to create memories that you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re going on a city break, a beach vacation, or adventure-filled tour, being together as a family will make the trip that bit extra special.
However, taking your child on their first trip abroad can be stressful, for both the child and for you as the parent. Don’t let the stress of planning a trip ruin the experience. Check out this guide with some top tips on taking your child on their first holiday. Read on to find out more.
Guide to taking your child on their first holiday
Get Insured
When you’re planning to take an overseas trip, insurance is absolutely vital. It will ensure your covered should there be any kind of unforeseen incident and emergency, leaving you free to enjoy your holiday free from worry and anxiety.
When you’re taking your child on their first holiday, insurance is even more important. Children can be delicate and can often get themselves into dangerous situations or predicaments. When you’re looking to book cover for your trip, pay attention to the kind of insurance policy you are going to take out. A family travel insurance policy from a reputable provider is the best bet when going abroad with more members. A standard policy is better for covering you and any belongings you take with you, whereas a medical travel insurance policy, is the better choice for those who need to cover any pre-existing medical conditions and any necessary medical care that may come by.
Pack accordingly
Young children, and babies especially, can require a lot of equipment and materials. Diapers, blankets, bottles, toys, and prams can all be cumbersome and expensive to transport, and can limit the amount of other things you’ll be able to bring with you.
If you’re flying, you’ll need to check luggage requirements and limitations. Most airlines will charge you for checking in extra luggage or for storing luggage in the hold, so you’ll need to factor in these extra costs to your holiday budget.
Children can get messy, so bringing spares, and spares of spares, of everything is essential. You’ll need clothes for being out during the day and sleepwear, with enough versatility to cope with sudden changes in weather. If you’re heading for warmer climes, remember to bring loose, breathable clothes so your child doesn’t overheat. Sunblock is obviously crucial, and remember to bring swimming equipment if your child wants to take a dip in the pool.
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First family trip abroad – Choose your destination
Bringing a child along on your holiday can influence where you go. A toddler will not enjoy educational tours around art galleries and museums, while a party-packed trip to Ibiza will not be suitable for a baby.
Holiday parks and resorts are often ideal destinations for families travelling with children. The offer all the comforts and amenities adults would expect from a holiday, while also providing fun, enjoyable activities for the children. Some will offer creche or child-minding services that will allow the parents to get some much-needed time alone.
Another thing you’ll need to consider is how far away your destination is. A long flight can be extremely difficult when an unhappy toddler is involved, making for a less-than enjoyable flight for everyone on board, toddler included. Shorter flights are preferable when travelling with children, and if you can time the flight to coincide with their regular nap or bedtime, all the better.
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To sum up
The thought of taking a young child on a trip abroad can fill many parents with dread. Tantrums on the plane or in the hotel are all too real nightmare scenarios. However with careful planning, these unpleasant situations can be easily avoided. Get your family insured, pack everything you need (and more), and choose your destination wisely. Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to enjoy your first family holiday with your child.
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