Travelling with a large family can be a challenge. However, it’s also incredibly rewarding and with some simple forward planning, it can be an absolute delight. Here are 5 tips for travelling abroad as a large family;

1. Lots of simple entertainment

Travelling is great fun and there’s an endless number of things to see and explore, and entertainment to be found. Not every moment can be jam-packed with action though, so make sure there is some simple, easy entertainment available for the little ones (and the not so little ones). Books, DVD players, card and board games, arts and crafts materials, musical instruments etc. are all great ways to keep kids, teenagers and adults alike entertained during the less exciting periods. They’re perfect for long flights or long drives, or rainy days stuck inside. Make sure you stock up before you head off!

2. Plan ahead, but accept things will go wrong

Planners, calendars, notebooks and endless reminders set on your phone are all good ways of keeping the trip regimented and moving forwards, but accept that sometimes things just don’t work out. There’s nothing you can do to control the weather, for example (that’s where tip no. 1 comes in handy!), and transportation like trains/taxis/aeroplanes etc. all have the potential to be delayed. Sadly, often the best thing to do is accept there’s nothing you can do, and start a game of ‘I Spy’ to keep spirits up. As a parent, you are official expedition leader and it’s up to you to keep morale high.

3. Have separate sleeping areas

Sure it’s great to hang out together and spend some quality time together as a family, but everyone needs their own space sometimes. By booking hotels/villas with separate sleeping areas, it keeps tensions low and makes it easier to keep the peace between siblings. Using popular booking websites such as the ones mentioned here, you can adapt the search filters to find accommodation with the number of rooms you need. It might require a little more money, but it’s a small price to pay for a fun, argument-free family vacation.

4. Let everyone have a go at choosing an activity

Every member of the family will have different interests and different things they’d like to see and experience. For example, one person might be desperate to try out some thrilling theme parks or water parks, in which case this list should provide some great inspiration. Someone else might want to visit local art galleries and museums. Make sure everyone knows there’s time for everything, and let each member of the family choose a day of activities to share the fun.

5. Pick an event everyone will love

If you’d like to have at least one event where everyone is truly mesmerised, seek out an unforgettable experience for all the family. A great example would be a cherry blossom tour in Japan. Experiencing the unique culture and history of Japan is great at any time of year, but when beautiful cherry blossom is spreading around you at the same time the experience becomes truly magical.

The key to a great family travelling experience is cooperation, forward planning, and accepting whatever is thrown your way. Plan some astounding events for everyone to enjoy, and let the rest take care of itself. Get exploring!

B xx

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post