The 8 things you need for a disaster-free family holiday.

Time to get packing.

Some people have the travel bug and some don’t. I, most definitely, am in the first category. I love travelling. I love seeing new places, trying new things and meeting new people.

When I had children everyone seemed to think my travel plans would be put on hold, but why should they be?

My fiancé and I have been taking our kids on holidays since they were babies. Whether it’s an unplanned weekend getaway or an overseas adventure, we love travelling as a family and sharing this beautiful world with our kids.

But when travelling as a family there are, of course, a few things you need to have on hand to ensure your holiday is disaster-free. The only way I know this is because I’ve learned the hard way.

To save you from the same fate, I’d love to share my list of the top eight things you need for a disaster-free holiday.

1. Books and games.

Of course a holiday means seeing new places and doing new things, but when you travel as a family, you will absolutely need a ‘down’ day. Down days are also necessary in the case of unexpected bad weather and it’s best to be well prepared for these days. Books, crafts and games (electronic or otherwise) are perfect for these scenarios. They are also super handy for long car rides or any travel involved.

Just as an FYI, you should know that this post is sponsored by Telstra Mobile Broadband. But all opinions expressed by the author are 100% authentic and written in their own words.

2. Food.

When I told my fiancé I was writing this article he told me I couldn’t write this list without including food. Whether it’s packing food for the kids before you leave or finding a restaurant with a kids’ menu, make sure you consider food when booking any sort of holiday. Personally, we always pack pre-packaged food to take with us. Trust me, it will help you avoid all sorts of disasters.

3. Patience.

Travelling with kids is not easy. They whinge and moan and find a way to complain about the most mundane things. Patience is a must. You might get stuck in transit, and holidays also seem to involve lots of waiting in queues – and the only way to get through them is to have patience. You WILL get to your destination, I promise.

4. A sense of humour.

Along with patience, a sense of humour is a must on any family holiday. Things can and will go wrong, but there is no point stressing about it. So maybe you forgot the tent poles and are sleeping swag-style this time. It happens. Have a laugh and you may find yourself creating even better memories than you imagined.

5. A first aid kit.

I’m just going to say it: kids are clumsy. I wouldn’t go anywhere without a first aid kit. Band-Aids and Gastro Stop are my top two items. Bug spray and anti-itch cream are also up there. Do not leave the house without them.

6. Mobile internet.

Most families have devices these days. My family of four has two phones, two tablets and an iPod. Mobile internet is an absolute must for any holiday. Over the years I’ve learnt the hard way how hefty internet prices can be at Australian hotels and if you take prepaid mobile broadband with you it saves all the hassle and expense and keeps the whole family happy.  Plus it gives you the perfect opportunity to share those awesome holiday pics on social media…

7. A range of clothing.

I recently went to north QLD where you’d think it would be warm 24/7. Nope. Once the evening sun is gone and a breeze hits you definitely need a jumper. No matter where you are going take a range of clothes for the whole family. Also – always pack swimmers. Kids will swim in water as cold as the Antarctic if you let them.

8. An itinerary.

Yes, spur of the moment trips are good, but travelling with kids is so much less stressful if you at least have a rough itinerary for each day. It also means you can make the most of your location and fit in all the must-dos without being stressed for time.

How do you ensure a disaster-free holiday?

Here are some suggestions should you need a little more inspiration for your a trip away…

Want more? How about:

“We took our kids out of school for a year-long ‘holiday’.”

The 7 truths about going on holiday with your children.

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