Destination and resort choice

For younger ones, the priorities are usually:

Shorter flight times and smooth transfers

Child friendly resorts with shallow pools and slides

Safe, enclosed spaces where they can play

Familiar food options and flexible meal times

Destinations with easy, direct flights and short transfers can really help everyone arrive in a good mood. A hotel with a great children's pool, play area and early entertainment will often be a big hit.

Teenagers often need:

A bit more independence and freedom to explore

Activities that feel more "grown up"

Decent Wi-Fi and things to do in the evening

Resorts with sports facilities, gyms, water sports, escape rooms or cool hangout spaces tend to go down well. A destination with a promenade, beach bars, shops or a town nearby can give teens that sense of independence they start to crave, while you still know they are safe.

Room types and sleeping arrangements

With younger children, practical layout is key:

Space or cots or bed guards

Easy access to the bathroom at night

The option of early nights without everyone sitting in the dark

Teens usually care more about:

Privacy and personal space

Their own bed, a sofa bed can feel a bit "young"

Storage for clothes, devises and chargers

Interconnecting rooms or two bedroom suites can be ideal, especially if you have a mix of ages or both boys and girls. 

Activities and entertainment

Younger children may prioritise:

Good kids club with age appropriate activities

Splash parks, mini discos and character events

Simple, fun activities like boat trips or feeding the fish

Teenagers often prefer:

Teen clubs or chill out zones

Activities such as water sports, gaming areas, beach volleyball

Fitness options such as gym access, group classes, cycling and hiking

Many resorts now offer specific teen areas with games consoles, music and relaxes supervision. 

Food and dining

When travelling with younger ones, think about:

Buffet options with familiar favourites

Early dining times and highchairs

Somewhere you feel comfortable if there are little spills or noise

When travelling with teenagers think:

They eat more

They want to eat later

Often want more choice and adult options

All inclusive works well with both age groups, especially when snacks, soft drinks and ice creams are included.

Travelling with children is always special, whether they are 4 or 17, but the kind of holiday that will really work does change as they grow.

There is no perfect "family hotel" that suits every age and personality, which is why I always start with a conversation about your children, your budget and what a happy day on holiday looks like for you.