Top tips for travelling with young children

Last year we decided we wouldn't miss out on our annual family holiday just because we had a 3 very young children (2,1 and 9 weeks). Although it was hard work I would do it all again in a heartbeat. We had to think very carefully about where we were going to go and how we would manage it but eventually we decided that a villa would be our best option and we invited the in-laws for a bit of extra support. Here's what I learned along the way ….

Accommodation

Wherever you decide to stay make sure it is properly equipped for your family (cots, high chairs etc). We decided on a villa and I would highly recommend this for families with young children. I didn't have to worry about how I was going to sterilise the bottles or if I needed to put a wash on, I had everything I needed. If you don't choose a villa, I would recommend a self-catering apartment. You need full kitchen facilities, so I would be very reluctant to stay in a hotel room.

Time of year/Weather

I would try and avoid the height of summer as it can be too hot for the children and trying to keep them shaded and cool all day can be quite tricky, never mind the endless amounts of sun cream you would need to put on them. I went late September to Menorca and whilst it was warm the pool wasn't warm enough to get in. So, do a bit of research before you choose. Mid 20's would be just right in my opinion. We took a small paddling pool with us, so the babies could enjoy a warm splash.

Food/Drinks

All's I would say on this is if you have a bottle-fed baby make sure you take everything you need with you. Don't rely on the supermarkets there. If you have fussy eaters also try and pack a few bits of food, you know they will eat just as a backup. Sterilising the bottles was my biggest worry. I managed to purchase some disposable Dr Browns sterilising bags which were a god send and they packed very neatly in the case as the box was really small. Stock up on plenty of bottled water, you will use a lot of it, I even used it to sterilise the bottles.

Getting around

Most airlines allow you to take an additional pram and car seat for each child traveling so I would recommend you take a cheap lightweight buggy that you’re not bothered if it gets damaged on the airplane. We hired a car so took Robyn's car seat, but it was also very handy as she could stay in it right up until boarding the plane. Toddlers get tired very quickly especially in the heat, so I would probably even take a buggy for my eldest now who is 3 1/2.

Airport/Airplane

Take plenty of snacks and stuff to keep the little ones occupied. Whether it be a colouring book, small toy or a tablet don't forget to pack something in your hand luggage as they get bored very easily and even if it’s only a 2-hour flight that's still quite a long time to keep small people entertained. Most of all try not to worry. Kids cry! I quite enjoyed it when I could see a full-grown man getting annoyed at my 9-week-old! Noah was so excited to go a plane for his very first time...… that excited he fell asleep just as we were about to take off.

Safety

Pool safety was my biggest fear. Having to have eyes in the back of my head. Although we didn't have one you can get villas with gates around the pool. If I was to stay in a villa again I would 100% pick one that is gated. Even if the children are a bit older you can never be too safe when it comes to water.

Enjoy

Don't let having young children put you off although it was a lot of packing, we had an amazing time and made some lifelong memories on our first proper family holiday.