Our Personal Travel Designer, Keri Gee, shares her insight into planning family travel.
As both a Personal Travel Designer with decades of experience and a proud grandmother of four, I know just how joyful (and sometimes challenging) multi-generational holidays can be. Travelling with children, parents, and grandparents can create the most cherished memories, but a little planning goes a long way to keep everyone happy and stress-free.
Keri and family on holiday in Tenerife.
Here are a few of my tried-and-tested tips for making your next family getaway go smoothly:
- Share the Packing
One of my golden rules: don’t pack each person’s clothes in separate cases. On one trip, my granddaughter’s suitcase, which contained all her clothes, nappies and milk, went missing. We’d arrived late into a villa, and let’s just say it wasn’t ideal! Share essentials across everyone’s bags so that if one goes missing, you’re not completely stuck.
- Book the Kid’s Meal
This might seem simple, but pre-ordering a child’s in-flight meal is a lifesaver. Not only does it arrive early, but it usually includes activities and stickers that keep little ones entertained.
- Use Twilight Check-In Where Available
If you're flying with an airline that offers twilight or day-before check-in, take advantage. Dropping off your luggage the night before (preferably without kids in tow) means a smoother, less stressful airport experience the next day – especially with little ones in tow.
- Keep Hold of Your Pushchair
Don’t be tempted to check your buggy in at the desk. Keep it with you right up to the gate. You can pack it down and have it stowed when you board the plane. It’s perfect for tired toddlers while waiting for your flight, and also for carrying hand luggage or duty-free shopping through the terminal.
- Confirm Car Seats for Transfers
Many transfer or car hire companies will provide car seats, but always double-check before you travel. If you're unsure, there are some brilliant compact booster seats designed for travel. I always pack one just in case! Of course, if you’re travelling with a provider like Black Opal, we can book and double check all that for you!
Family travel is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world, and with a few extra considerations, it can be smooth and stress-free too. Whether it’s a villa holiday, a beachside hotel in Tenerife, or a trip to Lapland, we’ve done it all as a family! You can too, and I’d love to help you plan your perfect trip.
Ready to create your next unforgettable family adventure?
📞 Get in touch with Black Opal Holidays – we’d be delighted to help.
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