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An all-inclusive holiday can be the ultimate escape and ‘switch off time’ for parents – everything in one place, meals sorted, entertainment on tap and plenty of time to relax and forget the mental load. But when you’re travelling as a family, there are a few things you’ll wish you’d thought about before booking. From dining to transfers, here are the tips that will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable stay…
1. Restaurants: Book Early if You Can
If your resort offers à la carte dining, find out how far in advance you can reserve tables. Some resorts only allow bookings upon arrival, while others let you secure your spot weeks or even months ahead. To avoid disappointment, book as soon as you can. If you’re travelling with little ones, try to choose times that work with their usual routines so nobody is left hangry!
2. Baby Food Options
If you’re travelling with a baby who’s weaning, check whether the resort provides a baby menu or freshly prepared purées. Some will do this on request but others others won’t – in which case, you may need to bring your own supply.
3. Children’s Menus for Fussy Eaters
For families with picky eaters, look at the menus ahead of time. Many resorts offer children’s menus but the quality and variety can differ greatly. Knowing what’s available in advance can save a lot of mealtime stress. If there is a buffet, find out what sort of food tends to be on offer and whether they run themed nights to mix up the menu a bit!
4. Snacks Throughout the Day
All-inclusive doesn’t always mean unlimited access to food at any time. Some resorts have snack bars open all day, while others offer only limited snack times. Check ahead so you know whether to pack extras or grab a few bits from the breakfast buffet to keep the kids going – tupperware may be your friend if so!
5. Choosing the Right Room
If you’re travelling with little ones, you may want to request a quieter room away from the evening entertainment areas. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference when bedtime comes around. It’s also worth checking out the upgrades available – a lot of resorts have pool access rooms available – ideal for nap times!
6. Family Entertainment and Childcare
If you’d prefer to stay within the resort, look into what entertainment is on offer, which ages it is aimed at and at what time does it start. Some resorts also offer kids’ clubs or babysitting services – worth checking if you’re hoping for a little downtime during your stay.
7. Transfers Made Easy
Transfer times can vary hugely. If you’re travelling with children, a long bus ride after your flight can be tough. Ask how far the resort is from the airport and whether direct transfers are available. If so, check whether suitable car seats can be provided for little travellers.
8. Exploring the Local Area
Even on an all-inclusive holiday, you may want to venture out. Check how far local attractions are, whether there’s a shuttle bus, or if public transport is nearby. A little research goes a long way when you want to balance relaxation with exploring.
9. Doctors and Medical Assistance
Many resorts will have a doctor on site – if this is something that would give you peace of mind then find out whether your resort has access to this beforehand. If your little one has any medical conditions, it may also be worth finding out how far away the local hospital is too.
Planning an all-inclusive holiday soon? Use these tips to make sure your trip runs smoothly and is fun for everyone. Do you have any tried and tested family holiday hacks? Share them with me over on Instagram and for more family travel tips and adventures, follow along via @little_family_diaries_.