Surviving a Family + Dog Holiday

The family holiday, the one time of the year when you can all get away together for a calm and relaxing week away. That’s the ideology, anyway – the reality is far, far different and preparation should be taken...

As any parent will tell you, the most important thing is to make sure that the kids are happy and having fun. Any holiday simply must cater for our little ones and resorts should be baby friendly and have a children’s play area, ideally, allow the family dog to come along, too! If this is taken care of, then you are halfway there to surviving the week away!

Holiday activities are a must, because even though we all say that we aim to do nothing all week we, and the children, get bored very easily. Whether we are sunning it up in the Costa del Sol or sitting by the pool in the more humble surroundings of a domestic holiday park, our sense of adventure soon takes over. For example, close to the Midlands is Orchard Lodge, a small yet vibrant holiday park which is run by Allens Caravans. The park is located a short drive away from Stratford-upon-Avon, otherwise known as Shakespeare country as it is the birthplace of the famous playwright. Breaking up the trip by heading out and about will help all of your party to appreciate the time away together, as well as tiring out the children!

When at the resort, make full use of children’s areas and other amenities on offer – after all, they are there to be used. It would be a shame not to at least try the arcades and let loose your inner child.

 As much as we love the kids, it is important to make some time for yourself. A little quality adult time to do adult things is your right, and don’t feel guilty about doing so! Most parks or resorts will put on children’s clubs where parents can leave their kids for a couple of hours for a break/alone time. During this time you can enjoy a nice quiet meal together or some Netflix and chill without the Netflix. This also provides a good opportunity for your children to socialise with other kids their age who are staying at the same park or resort and make friends. It’s a win-win situation.

 It’s not a family holiday unless the dog comes as well, is it? We love our pets and they are just as much a part of the family as any of us, so why shouldn’t they get to come along (not the cats, of course!)

If you're seeking a holiday destination where you can bring the dog along, you will more than likely be looking domestically than overseas, mostly for logistical reasons. That’s okay as there are numerous places in the UK that are more than happy to welcome the family dog in – many hotel comparison sites offer ‘pet-friendly’ as an option when picking where to stay. Children will, of course, love having their best friend with them as they can play with the dog on holiday, and also provides an element of home which should help them to settle into their new surroundings that much better.

However you choose to spend your family holiday, remember that planning is essential. If you fail to prepare, then prepare to fail (in the way of getting the most out of your holiday, anyway).
*Guest written post