When discussing holiday destinations, try to ensure that during the trip there will be no big temperature changes. Thus, in winter it is better to go to countries where it is also winter, and in summer – visit places with a warm and hot climate. Acclimatization requires more time for children than for adults.
Take out an extended medical insurance for the child, and also have a well-stocked first-aid kit while travelling. Find out what baby food can be bought at local stores.
Do not be afraid of air travel. The child will endure a well-planned flight much easier than a long-haul trip by train or car. Try to choose a direct flight, avoid lengthy connections. Pack your baby's items in your carry-on bag.
Take on board everything that is necessary for travelling with a child – from diapers to food and toys for comforting and entertainment. It will be best if the flight time is the same as the usual sleeping time of the baby. By the way, many airlines provide bassinets for babies (up to 1 year), but they should be asked for in advance, a few days prior to departure.
If your child is still in a "stroller" age, take a lightweight stroller with him. It can be conveniently folded out both during customs control at the airport, and when moving around in general. In addition, the stroller will give you the opportunity and plenty of time to see the sights, and put the baby to sleep in any quiet place.
When choosing a place to stay when travelling with a child, it will not be superfluous to take into account several recommendations. If you travel independently, opt for a hotel or apartment near the center, however away from the main streets. The matter is that in touristy places it might get clamorous even at night – passers-by can still be walking and chattering near your windows, noise from garbage trucks and other cleaning equipment can disturb your sleep. For the same reason, it is preferable not to choose apartments on the ground floors.
It is necessary to make sure that there it is possible to install a cradle or a baby cot in a hotel room or an apartment you are renting. This will make your stay there much more comfortable.
Also, find out if there are air conditioners (central heating) in the room. Keep in mind that in southern countries there is no heating as it is, during the cold and damp periods the only way to warm up is to switch the air conditioner to the heater.
At your service there are also family hotels – especially it is relevant for sea holidays. It is very convenient, if there are children's play areas on the hotels premises, both for younger and older children. Additional convenience will be provided by shallow pools, animators and a babysitting option. It is desirable to have awning, parasols and bungalows on the beach to provide you with a quality shade.
Even if you know that the hotel restaurant has a so-called "children's menu", do not jump to any conclusions. Very often under this name hides a limited choice of junk food, much favoured by children, such as: French fries, nuggets, chips and pizza. If your child is less than 2 years old, the day can be saved by the availability of a blender and boiled vegetables on the general menu.
Going on vacation with family, it is very important not only to look for ways to save. Quality sound insulation, fresh air and cleanliness are needed not so much for adults as for children. And in brief, the main rule of a great vacation is: the child is happy – everybody is happy!