Tips for Stress-Free Holidays with Kids

Planning  holidays with kids  can feel like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and a few simple tips, travelling with children can be smooth, enjoyable, and full of happy memories. Whether you’re heading overseas for the first time or just trying to keep the kids entertained on a city break, this guide is packed with practical ideas to help you relax and enjoy your trip.

Because when your kids are happy, you’re more likely to enjoy yourself too.

Why Preparation Makes All the Difference

If you’re looking for a stress-free start, begin planning early.  Holidays with kids  work best when you have the essentials sorted ahead of time. Think about your destination, flight times, transfers, accommodation, and the types of activities your children will enjoy.

Create a checklist of what needs to be done. Break tasks into small steps. That way, nothing gets missed and you avoid last-minute panic.

One short sentence: Good planning makes travel with kids easier.

Pick the Right Destination for Your Family

The destination you choose sets the tone for your entire trip. Look for places with family-friendly features like:

• Short flight times or good rail connections
• Warm but manageable weather
• Easy access to food, shops, and healthcare
• Hotels or resorts with kids’ facilities

Some families love the simplicity of an all-inclusive beach break. Others prefer exploring cities or hiring a villa in the countryside. The key is to know what works best for your family’s rhythm.

We can suggest destinations that match your children’s ages, your budget, and your travel style.

Holidays with Kids: Flight Times Matter More Than You Think

Where possible, choose flight times that align with your children’s natural sleep and energy levels. Early morning flights may seem like a good deal, but if your child struggles with early starts, it can throw off the whole day.

Try to avoid late-night landings or long layovers. These often cause overtired kids and stressed-out parents.

Some helpful tips:

• Give yourself plenty of time at the airport
• Avoid tight connections if changing planes
• Prepare snacks, toys, and drinks for the flight

It’s worth paying a little more for a flight that fits your family’s routine.

Choose Accommodation That Makes Life Easier

When travelling with kids, your hotel or apartment isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s your base. A good one can make or break your experience.

Look for:

• Family rooms or interconnecting rooms
• On-site restaurants or self-catering options
• Pools, playgrounds, or kids’ clubs
• Laundry facilities or babysitting services

Some parents prefer the flexibility of villas or apartments. Others want the support of a hotel. Either way, having the right space makes a big difference.

Ask us about hotels with great family facilities. We have lots of offers that can work well for your trip.

Pack Smart, Not Heavy

Packing for a family trip can feel like a puzzle. You need to be prepared, but you don’t want to carry half the house with you.

Here’s how to keep it simple:

• Pack a small backpack for each child
• Include their favourite toy, a change of clothes, and travel snacks
• Use packing cubes to separate each person’s clothes
• Keep travel documents, wet wipes, and hand sanitiser within easy reach

Don’t forget chargers, headphones, and any medications. Always pack essentials in your hand luggage in case your main bags are delayed.

Kids are usually happier when they have their own bag and a little responsibility.

Keep a Bit of Routine

Children often feel more settled when some parts of their daily routine stay the same. Try to stick to regular mealtimes and bedtimes where possible.

Bring along familiar items like their bedtime storybook or favourite blanket. These small things offer comfort in unfamiliar places.

This doesn’t mean being strict—it just helps them feel secure when everything around them is new.

You don’t have to follow your home routine exactly, but keeping key parts can really help.

Be Flexible When You Need To

Even on holidays with kids, the best plans can go sideways. Children get tired, hungry, or overstimulated. Sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate or a planned attraction is closed.

Try not to pack your schedule too tightly. Allow time for breaks, snacks, and quiet moments.

Let go of the idea that every part of the trip needs to be perfect. It’s the small, unplanned moments that often become the best memories.

Give yourself permission to change the plan if needed. Flexibility reduces stress for everyone.

Make Travel Days Fun

Travel days are usually the most challenging part of  holidays with kids . Waiting in queues, sitting still for long periods, and adjusting to new places can all be tough.

Here’s how to make it easier:

• Arrive early and avoid rushing
• Bring activity books, colouring pads, or small toys
• Let them run around before boarding or during stops
• Carry snacks that don’t make a mess

If your child has a comfort item, bring it. Whether it’s a soft toy or tablet with headphones, something familiar can calm nerves and boredom.

A bit of extra prep makes all the difference on travel days.

Involve Kids in the Journey

Let your children be part of the holiday from the start. Give them choices. Ask what they’d like to do. Share a simple map and talk about where you’re going.

At the airport, they can help carry their bag or scan their boarding pass. At your destination, they can choose a daily activity or meal.

Children are more likely to engage when they feel involved. This also gives them a sense of independence.

Letting them make simple decisions helps build their confidence while travelling.

Make Meals Simple and Stress-Free

Food is often a big part of any trip—but it can be tricky with children, especially fussy eaters.

Here’s what helps:

• Pick places with kids’ menus or familiar options
• Bring snacks so they’re not too hungry before meals
• Try one new food at a time so they’re not overwhelmed

It’s fine if they eat the same few things on holiday. Travel is exciting enough already. Focus on what works, not what’s ideal.

Eating well helps kids stay energised and in a better mood.

Keep Entertainment Handy

Even the best-planned day has down time. Whether you’re on a plane, waiting for food, or having a quiet evening in, you’ll need something to keep the kids occupied.

Ideas that work:

• Download audiobooks, games, or cartoons in advance
• Bring sticker books, puzzles, or a deck of cards
• Let them take photos and tell stories about their trip

Mix screen-free options with digital ones. This gives you flexibility, especially when you need some calm.

One short sentence: Bored kids are harder to manage.

Travel Light—but Don't Forget the Essentials

There’s a balance between packing light and being prepared. While you don’t need everything, forgetting key items can add stress.

Essentials for families:

• Wet wipes and tissues
• First-aid kit with plasters, medicine, and insect repellent
• Sun cream, hats, and swimwear
• Travel documents, passports, and insurance info
• A portable charger

We can help you create a personalised packing checklist based on your destination and the ages of your children.

Stay Safe While Travelling

Safety matters, especially when children are involved. Plan for the unexpected, just in case.

Some useful tips:

• Always carry a photo of your child in case you get separated
• Use child-friendly ID bands with your contact details
• Teach older children your mobile number
• Keep hotel details written down in your bag

When booking with us, we can advise you on destination safety, health advice, and emergency numbers.

We always put your family’s wellbeing first.

Get Travel Insurance That Covers Families

Don’t leave this to chance. Family travel insurance should include cover for:

• Trip cancellation or delays
• Lost luggage or belongings
• Medical expenses abroad
• Missed connections
• Cover for parents and children under one policy

All holidays booked through Jamie Wake Travel come with built-in protection that offers extra peace of mind.

Every tailor-made trip includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance, so you’re never left stranded if something goes wrong.

We only work with trusted suppliers and tour operators who meet our strict standards.

You’ll be covered from the moment you book.

Jamie Says:

“Travelling as a family isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do. A bit of planning goes a long way—and we’re here to help at every step.”

Holidays with Kids: Offers Designed for Families

We know how important value is for families. That’s why we partner with family-focused hotels, villas, and resorts worldwide. Whether you want kids’ clubs, all-inclusive options, or toddler-safe beaches, we can help.

Ask us about family holiday offers in:

• Spain and the Balearic Islands
• The Algarve, Portugal
• Tenerife and the Canary Islands
• Florida and the theme parks
• Greece and its family resorts
• Lapland adventures in winter

We have lots of offers that families love—just let us know where you want to go, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Why Families Choose Jamie Wake Travel for Holidays with Kids

We’re not just here to book your flights and hotels. We’re here to make sure your whole family has a holiday that feels easy, safe, and enjoyable.

Here’s what you get when you book with us:

• Access to over 200 trusted suppliers and tour operators
• Personalised service from real people who care
• Full ATOL protection and membership with Protected Trust Services
• Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
• Ongoing support before, during, and after your trip

We take time to understand what matters to you—whether that’s keeping a toddler entertained or finding a hotel with proper baby facilities.

We plan as if it’s our own family going.

Ready to Book Stress-Free Holidays with Kids?

Holidays with kids  don’t have to be stressful. With the right destination, well-timed flights, thoughtful packing, and expert support, your next family holiday can be one of the best yet.

Let Jamie Wake Travel handle the details so you can focus on making memories together.

Call us on  01495 400005  to chat about your next family getaway.
Or use our holiday enquiry form on the website and we’ll get started right away.

You bring the fun—we’ll handle the rest.