Just because you have young children doesn’t mean you’re stuck spending every summer in the UK until they turn 18! With the right planning, travel with little ones can still be fun, fulfilling, and yes, even relaxing. Choosing a family-friendly destination with a short flight and minimal time difference is a smart move, especially if it’s your first time going abroad with a baby or toddler.
Surviving the flight with young children
When flying with babies or toddlers, preparation really is everything. Check what your airline offers in terms of baby gear or meals, and be ready for any unexpected messes. (Pro tip: don’t board without spare clothes – for you too! A surprise nappy leak mid-flight is no joke.)
Pack generously:
- Extra clothes
- Snacks and bottles
- Plenty of nappies
- Comfort items (blanket, dummy, toy)
- Activities for older siblings
If your baby falls asleep on the plane, great! Don’t worry about your regular routine during the flight. For longer journeys, it’s best to let them sleep whenever they need to. This helps reduce overtiredness and makes for a smoother arrival.
Managing time differences abroad
If you’re heading to Europe with a 1-2 hour time difference, consider sticking close to your usual UK schedule. This helps with jet lag upon return and works well with the later dining times that many European destinations follow.
But even if there’s no time change, like in Tenerife, you’ll face a new rhythm. Many hotels or resorts don’t start dinner service until 6:30-7pm, which can be tricky if your child is used to a 7pm bedtime. For kids under three, this often results in overtired meltdowns at dinner and bedtime.
For short-haul trips, sticking to your home time zone is usually the easiest way to keep things smooth and predictable.
Real-life family-friendly hotel: Villa María, Tenerife
Jenna recently stayed at Villa María in Tenerife, booked through Tots to Travel – and she can’t recommend it enough. Everything is designed with families in mind, from their baby kits and safety-checked facilities to the thoughtful details like:
- A travel cot with an extra mattress and cuddly toy
- A kids’ disco that starts at 5:30pm (YES!)
- A pool bar that serves both adult and child-friendly meals all day
- Moët on arrival and a playroom next to the bar, need I say more?
It was ideal for us because it respected our children’s routines without sacrificing adult enjoyment. The entertainment team was incredible, and the space made sleeping in a new place much easier.
Bedtime tips while on holiday
Worried your child won’t settle in a new place? Stick to your home routine. Once your child is in bed, check on them as you would at home. They’ll adjust quicker than you think.
If your child is older than 8 months, try to create a small sleeping area with some visual separation, whether behind a curtain or using furniture to block the view of your bed. This helps prevent middle-of-the-night wake-ups turning into play sessions.
A two-bedroom setup can be a game-changer if you have the option, especially if your kids are sharing a room. Expect a bit of giggling or pushing boundaries at first, but stay calm and consistent, and they’ll soon settle.
What about naps on holiday?
Don’t worry, every nap doesn’t have to happen in the travel cot. A few naps on-the-go (in the buggy, car, or carrier) won’t ruin their sleep habits. But try to balance it out with naps in the cot whenever possible. These are especially great during the midday heat and help maintain your little one’s sleep quality.
Final advice? Make memories!
Travelling with young children can take more planning, but it can also be magical. With the right prep and a little flexibility, you’ll make lifelong memories, for you and your little ones.
Need support with sleep?
If sleep goes off-track while you’re away – or you want to prepare in advance – we offer a free 15-minute consultation to your whole family get better sleep in just two to three weeks. Find out more now.
