The summer holidays are just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your family summer holiday. Whether you’re heading to sandy beaches, cultural cities, or exploring a new country, travelling with children (whatever their age) can bring joy and a few extra challenges.
To help you prepare for the most from your holiday abroad this summer, we’ve put together the Ultimate Summer Survival Guide for Parents, filled with practical advice, smart packing tips, and ideas to keep your little ones, tweens and teens happy while you enjoy a stress-free holiday.
Before the excitement begins, make sure you’ve ticked off the essentials:
Packing for a family can feel like preparing for a small expedition, but being organised makes it easier. Tailor your travel kit based on your children’s ages:
Top tip: Let older children and teens pack their own travel bag with entertainment and essentials – it builds independence and ensures they bring what they’ll actually use.
Airports can be exciting but also overwhelming for kids – especially during the busy summer rush. Help things go smoothly by:
Tip: Pack a few new (but small) surprises like a travel game or sticker book for the plane – it keeps things fresh and exciting.
Your summer holiday is a break for the whole family, so plan activities that everyone can enjoy. Look for:
Get your kids involved in planning one or two days of the trip, it gives them ownership and gets everyone excited.
Keeping kids safe and comfortable in hot weather is a must. Make sure to:
• Apply SPF 30+ sun cream regularly, especially after swimming.
• Encourage regular water breaks throughout the day
• Dress younger kids in light, long-sleeved tops and sun hats.
• Schedule breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces during peak heat hours.
Travel tip: Pop a small first-aid kit with plasters, aftersun, antihistamines and pain relief suitable for all ages.
Even the best-laid plans can go sideways, from delayed flights to sunburn or lost luggage. Having the right support in place helps:
After a long school year (and let’s be honest, a busy life), the summer holidays are a brilliant time to reconnect, unwind, and make unforgettable memories with the whole family.
Take a look at our Family Travel Insurance to see how you can protect your family this summer.
Ready to get covered and go? Click here to get a free quote today.