loveholidays expert shares stress-free hacks for travelling with children this half term

• 56% of young families travelled on a holiday abroad in 2022

• loveholidays’ travel expert reveals top hacks for travelling with kids during half-term

• Dad of two shares his advice on family travel

Half-term is a popular time for families to get away and enjoy a well-deserved break. Last year, 56% of young families travelled on a holiday abroad, while searches for ‘family holiday tips’  increased by 100% in the past 12 months2.

Having a stress-free trip requires planning and preparation. To help families planning their October half-term holiday, Iona Wark, Senior Holiday Product Manager at loveholidays, has shared a selection of helpful travel tips.

1. Research airline policies before booking

Airlines have different seating rule policies, so if you’re wanting to cut costs by not reserving seats, do your research before booking. Legally, airlines have to seat all children under 12 with at least one responsible adult but “with” could be across an aisle, infront or behind. If you’re travelling with children under 12, some airlines will guarantee you will be able to sit with your children at no extra charge but others may not, so always check before flying.

2. Pack outfits in self-seal bags and store dummies in condiment cups

Pack each outfit for your child in your hold luggage and any spare carry-on clothes for them into clear bags; the organisation makes changing easier if an accident happens. To avoid dummies collecting dirt, next time you eat out grab a few condiment cups to store them in.

3. Take your pushchair to ease security time

At certain airports, you can breeze through security if your child is in a pushchair. For example, at Manchester Airport, you can use the free fast lane and Gatwick Airport has dedicated family lanes for children in pushchairs. Research the guidelines ahead of booking to manage time expectations.

4. Use a portable cup to minimise spills and help blocked ears

On flights, open cups can make a mess, and spillages can happen. Instead, take a reusable cup with a lid and straw for your child to carry on the flight. Not only does it minimise spills, but the sucking motion will also help avoid their ears popping during take-off and landing.

5. How to bag children’s freebies on board

Some airlines offer complimentary kid’s packs and toys to keep them entertained whilst onboard. For example, on a Virgin Atlantic flight, you can ask for a KiD backpack6 for children aged 2-6 to enjoy such as a holiday journal, and on British Airways, children can enjoy a Skyflyers7 activity pack, which includes a fun eye mask and a postcard to send home from your holiday.

6. Combating holiday blues

You’ll appreciate this tip when you land back home! Plan some fun things to do before your children go back to school such as a holiday scavenger hunt around the house or make a fun scrapbook together with your memories to banish any holiday blues.

Dad of two, Luke Gallimore6, recently travelled to Turkey and advised: “Always make lists of what you need and tick off as you pack, our boys love their devices, so we make sure we have enough films for them downloaded for the flight, so you don’t need to worry if there is dodgy or non-existent Wi-Fi.

“Also, if you have a buggy take it with you, in our experience, you’ll get through security faster.”

Linzi Barber comments on the travel hacks: “Travelling with your children is a great way to explore new destinations and create lasting memories, however it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that can come with it. Making some simple changes to the way you travel can make all the difference in ensuring your half-term trip is a success.”

Find out more about family holiday destinations here:  https://www.loveholidays.com/holidays/family-holidays.html