The choice of accommodation is one of the biggest decisions you have to make when planning for a holiday. This decision becomes even more crucial when you’re planning a holiday with children, as their needs and comforts are paramount.
The right accommodation for family holiday and vacations can set the tone for an epic stay and memories that’ll warm your heart for a lifetime. From safety measures to fun activities, this article offers practical tips to make sure your next family holiday is not just a getaway but a memorable experience for all.
Safety first
Look for accommodations that are designed with the little ones in mind. Secure balconies? Childproofed rooms? Gated pools? That’s just a start.
A safety-first approach is a great idea. This 2018 report established that the drowning rates among Australia’s youth (5-17) more than doubles during the holidays compared to when they’re in school.
Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare further asserts that unintentional injuries (traffic accidents, drownings, falls, etc.) are the leading cause of death and hospitalization for children aged 0–14 in Australia.
These sobering statistics show just why safety should be at the top of your mind. So, go for a place where your little ones can roam freely without you constantly worrying about sharp corners, open staircases, and other potential hazards.
Kid-friendly amenities
When choosing your holiday accommodations, go for one with a dedicated kids’ club. It’s not just about having a playground and stopping at that.
Water slides? Splash pads? Craft sessions? Interactive games? All these can go a long way in giving them the time of their lives. So, go for facilities that provide the right environment for the children to learn, play, and make new friends.
Finding accommodation that satisfies both the parents’ and kids’ needs is a great idea. It could be something like those frenzied treasure hunts or crafting sessions while you enjoy some well-deserved downtime. With kid-friendly amenities and care, you might even get time to go for that long-overdue movie or date night.
Spacious family rooms
Space matters, especially when you’re traveling with family. Accommodations offering family suites or connecting rooms give everyone enough room to relax.
This is even more necessary when you’ve got your grown kids with you. Choose places with enough room so everyone enjoys personal space and privacy. This is good for their growth and also gives you some you-time and them their ‘they-time’.
But that’s not all. Play areas? Portable playpens? These larger spaces can comfortably accommodate the little ones and ensure they have a safe and dedicated area to play and explore within the room.
Additionally, having extra space means there’s room for night-time routines, like story reading or cuddles before bed, which can help maintain normal family rituals and provide a sense of security for younger children in a new environment.
Plus, it doesn’t hurt if your suite’s got a mini kitchenette, where you can whip up a quick snack for your picky eater, or a living area where your family can play board games together.
Location
The ideal family accommodation isn’t just about the interiors. It’s also about its location. Beaches? Parks? Museums? If they’re a part of your itinerary, why not go for a place that’s just a stone’s throw away?
This convenience can truly make your family holiday worth every dime (and time). Plus, being close to attractions could minimize travel stress, if you tagged along your much younger children.
Far from that, it allows for more spontaneous and flexible planning. The result? You can easily return to the hotel for breaks or unexpected needs.
Family-oriented services
The little things often make the biggest difference. Babysitting? Special kids’ menus? Flexible dining hours? Holiday accommodations offering these services are a godsend.
So, how about going for one that welcomes your little ones with a special menu and colouring books? Quite the stories you’ll hear for weeks on end.
Takeaways
What makes a holiday perfect? It’s all about creating unforgettable memories, right? And what’s a surefire way to do that? By choosing a place that your family will absolutely love.
So, as you plan your next family getaway, keep the tips above in mind. They’ll really help in making sure that your kids, and hey, the whole family, have the time of their lives.
