Travelling with kids: 12 tips for a relaxed family holiday

Going on a trip with your family is one of the finest things there is, but let's be honest: it takes a bit more preparation than a trip for two. With grumbling children in the back seat or a toddler who falls asleep right at check-in, a day can turn in an instant. Fortunately, a few smart choices make the difference. Below you'll find twelve concrete tips that make travelling with the kids a lot lighter.

Travelling with kids starts with realistic expectations

The most important tip up front: match the pace to your children, not to your bucket list. A family holiday with young children is about rhythm, rest and enough breaks. Plan one main activity per day and keep the rest of the day open. That way you avoid overstimulation and keep energy yourself too. Children often enjoy a playground or an ice cream just as much as that one famous museum.

Smart packing saves the most stress

Good packing saves you a lot of hassle on the road. Involve the children, because those who choose their own cuddly toy and books feel part of the trip straight away.

• Pack a set of clothes per child in a separate bag, so you find everything in a flash.
• Always take a complete set of spare clothes in your hand luggage, plus an extra shirt for yourself.
• Think of a small first-aid bag with plasters, a thermometer and any medication.
• Put nappies, wipes and snacks at the top, not the bottom of the case.

Keeping them happy on the way without constant screen time

The journey itself is often the trickiest part. Alternate between calm and active activities, so attention doesn't fade. Think of a travel bingo with things you see along the way, audiobooks, a new little toy you only produce in the car or train, and plenty of snacks. On long car journeys, plan a stop every two hours to run and use the toilet. A surprise you save for the last, hardest hour often works wonders.

Choose a child-friendly destination and accommodation

Not every destination is equally suitable for young children. When booking, look for short travel distances, a mild climate and facilities on site. An apartment with a kitchenette is often more practical for families than a hotel room: you can make a simple breakfast yourself and cook in the evening while the children sleep. Ask in advance for a cot or high chair, so you don't have to lug it along.

Keep a bit of the home routine

Children feel safe with familiarity. Bring the trusted cuddly toy, the sleep hat or the bedtime book and try to keep roughly to bedtime. A little piece of home in a strange place makes sleeping somewhere new a lot easier.

Put your whole trip in one overview

Nothing as tiring as hunting through loose confirmation emails, times and addresses while three children tug at your sleeve. A travel planner like Zuvy puts your flights, accommodations and activities neatly on a timeline, so you see at a glance what's on the programme that day. That saves searching and brings calm.

Think of documents and insurance

Sort the practical things well in advance. Check that all passports are valid, including the children's, because a child's passport is valid for a shorter time than you'd think. Take a copy of your travel insurance and note the emergency number. If you travel within Europe, bring the European health card. With those basics in order, you can leave with peace of mind and, above all, enjoy the time together.