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Who to think about when planning a holiday

There are lots of UK holiday parks, campsite and holiday rentals ready to accommodate families of all shapes and sizes, including your furry friends—because after all, your dog is family too!

Whether you're planning a holiday for energetic teenagers, curious toddlers, a baby or even a dog, we’ve got tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free.

Booking tip: Many accommodation booking sites or apps allow you to refine your search not only by destination or holidays type but also by selecting things that are important to your family, such as 'Wheelchair accessible', 'Wi-Fi', 'Cot available', and more.

Babies or toddlers

When travelling with little ones, a little preparation can go a long way.

  • Look for places with baby-friendly amenities like cots, highchairs, and kitchens (these may come as an additional charge and may need to be pre booked). More on the types of holidays here.
  • Plan travel around your baby’s sleep schedule, travelling during nap times or when they’re typically calm can make the journey easier. More on planning your journey coming soon.
  • Make a checklist of essentials like nappies, formula, baby food, and travel-friendly gear such as a pram or carrier. Check the forecast and pack accordingly—sun hats and sunscreen for warm destinations, or cosy layers for cooler climates. More on packing coming soon.
  • Know where to find nearby shops, pharmacies, and medical facilities, just in case. Either speak to reception when you arrive if there is one or use Google Maps to view nearby facilities before you travel.
  • Bring along familiar snacks to make mealtimes easier. More on eating on holiday coming soon.

Teenagers

Travelling with teenagers? It can be an exciting challenge—full of energy, opinions, and a desire for independence.

  • Teenagers often want to stay connected, so make sure your accommodation offers Wi-Fi. Agree on some boundaries around screen time beforehand.
  • Mix family bonding with activities that teens enjoy. Combine adventure days with some downtime by the pool or at the beach. More advice on things to do on holiday coming soon.

Dogs

Don’t forget about your furry friend! Bringing your dog on holiday can make the trip even more special.

  • Only some holiday parks, campsite and holiday rentalsoffer pet-friendly options, so it's important to book one of those – otherwise, your pet might not be allowed in. Also, keep in mind that some places have restrictions on the number, size, or breed of dogs, so it's always a good idea to double-check the details before you book.
  • Make sure to check if the accommodation charges an extra cleaning fee.
  • Pack for all conditions—towels for muddy paws, portable water bottles, and dog coats if needed. More on what to pack coming soon.
  • Check out beaches, parks, or attractions that welcome dogs. Just be mindful of lead laws and any areas with restrictions, like seasonal bans on beaches. You can always follow the locals and see what’s allowed when you get there, but if you want to plan ahead, a quick search online can help. Just type something like "are dogs allowed on [insert beach name i.e Camber Sands beach}" to find out.

Large Families

Travelling with a big family can feel like a logistical challenge, but with some smart planning, it can be a fantastic adventure for everyone.

  • Many holiday parks cater to large families, but options can be limited, so booking early and being flexible with the location is key. If you can’t find one unit big enough for everyone, you might need to book two. While most holiday parks can’t guarantee the units will be next to each other, it’s always worth asking for a note to be added to your booking. Just remember that an adult will need to stay in each unit.
  • Holiday rentals are a fantastic option, offering multiple bedrooms and, often, more than one bathroom all under one roof.
  • Camping is another brilliant choice for large families—it’s flexible, affordable, and there’s practically no limit to the space you can use. More on the types of holidays available here.
  • Cooking for a crowd? Self-catering accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen can save money and make mealtimes easier. More on eating on holiday coming soon.
  • With a variety of ages and interests, it’s important to balance group activities with time for smaller groups or individuals to do their own thing. Choose destinations with something for everyone, like theme parks, beaches, or nature trails. More on choosing the right destination coming soon.
  • Coordinate packing to avoid duplication—sharing items like toiletries, chargers, and snacks can save space. More on packing coming soon.
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