In December we had our first family holiday, it wasn't abroad, in fact it was only a few hours away but it was an experience that made me super anxious beforehand, knowing what to pack and what not to, what will fit in the car and what can go in the boot, all whilst trying to work around Abbie's nap time and a very anxious me..
I'm one of those people who has to have everything organised weeks before, I am planning now with checklists galore for our next trip in just under 2 months, I have a bit of experience now so hopefully I can stay relaxed this time. I've shared a few things from my checklist below with some extra little bits from other articles online too, it is just about everything you need to have a relaxing holiday together, be it on the beach or maybe a day or two exploring in the countryside!
For the journey It's only a 2 hour journey for us so we're gonna try and get it all done in one go, which means no stopping! Abbie has been getting better in the car for long periods recently, however she refuses to sleep in her car seat so it can mean a grumpy toddler for the second half of the journey, plus she gets travel sick too, so it's always a little stressful, but we have thought hard about what kinda things we would take to keep her entertained!
- Lunch & Snacks - Cbeebies CD - Sticker books - iPad
Camera
Probably at the top of my list (apart from clothes and Abbie's stuff of course), I don't go anywhere without my camera, you never know what opportunities you could miss! I think I took almost a thousand on our last Butlins trip, no seriously, I get super snap happy! Disposable camera's are also a good idea, perfect for the little ones to take their own photos too, and it doesn't matter too much if they drop it either! When you get home, help them make their own little scrapbook of the holiday with their very own photos too! We will be taking some underwater ones with us this time!Clothes Obviously, we know clothes are essential, but I'm talking about packing for every type of weather, the weatherman might say it's going to be lovely and sunny, but you could end up in showers for a good few days and have nothing to wear but a pretty summer outfit and sandals! Just some cardigans, some trainers and an umbrella should have you covered!
Guide Books
I've always found these super helpful, growing up my family had them on our day trips and holidays, they can pinpoint the best places to go, from food to amusements, hotels to fun things for the little ones, most shops or tourist information stops have a guidebook to suit your chosen destination! We get given ours when we check-in so we know where everything is during our stay!
Sun Lotion
Now the weather's warming up, it's essential you take sun lotion with you, even if it's overcast and cloudy, there are still harmful UV rays! Anyone remember the Baz Luhrman song? It's always what pops into my head when I hear the word 'sunscreen', so random! Ha ha. We use the Green People's Organic Children for Abbie, it's natural, water repellant and perfect for sensitive skin! (oh and smells divine too!) Insect Repellent Itchy mosquito bites can see to it that you do not get a wink of sleep throughout your holiday. Insect repellent is a must, especially if like Ben, they seem to be drawn to your skin! You can actually get toddler friendly ones too so your little ones don't get bitten either!
Sandals A pair of flip flops you can pop on and kick off are absolutely essential. I've been eyeing a few pairs up on tReds recently, these ones especially, we will be doing a lot of walking so they look nice and cushiony for that! Take a few pairs each and be prepared for all weathers!
Insurance Whether you're heading off abroad or staying in country, holiday insurance is definitely a must, we have it included in our Butlins package, just in case! You never know what could happen whilst you're away from home and the last thing you want to do is paying ridiculous money when you can be covered for just the fraction of the price! It's unlikely anything will happen but its nice to know its there!
x
