With budgets tightening and the cost-of-living on the rise, more and more families in the UK are opting for staycations over pricey foreign holidays this year. Staycations are holidays where you explore your own country rather than going abroad. They have become an increasingly popular choice, allowing families quality time together without spending a fortune. In this article, we’ll look at some top tips for planning and enjoying a successful family staycation this year.
Choosing Your UK Destination
One of the best parts of planning a staycation is deciding where to go. With beautiful coastlines, rolling countryside, vibrant cities and everything in between, the UK offers endless options for an unforgettable family holiday. Consider what type of trip your family would enjoy – a beach break, an action-packed city getaway, or a tranquil escape surrounded by nature. Do your children love amusement parks? Head to Blackpool or Brighton for thrills. Want to show them British history and culture? London, Edinburgh and York are full of museums, castles and attractions. Fancy getting active in the Great Outdoors? The Lake District and Snowdonia provide stunning hikes amongst mountain scenery.
Research your shortlist and let every family member help pick a spot. The destination may be closer to home, but a staycation can be just as exciting and memorable as travelling overseas.
Consider Your Needs
Think about what your family requires from a holiday before booking. Staycations are great for all families, but especially those who are short term fostering, as they avoid travel stresses. Foster families can find it challenging to take holidays with children who become anxious away from familiar surroundings. Staycations in the UK provide a solution, allowing foster families to bond while remaining in-country. The shorter distances make travel easier on foster children who may struggle being away from their normal networks.
Planning Fun Activities
Once you’ve settled on a destination, the fun really begins – planning all the amazing things you’ll do on your family staycation! Involve the children in coming up with activity ideas they’ll love. Attractions like zoos, historical sites and theme parks are always a hit. Allow time for playing at beaches or in nature as well.
Staying Flexible
When planning your family staycation, it’s best to build flexibility into your itinerary. Setting a rough schedule with room for spontaneity makes the experience more relaxed and fun. You never know what exciting opportunities you might discover – like a charming carnival in town for the day or a nature trail nearby perfect for biking. Leave windows of unscheduled time to follow whims and wander freely together.
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation
Accommodation is an integral part of any successful family staycation. Look for family-friendly places to stay equipped with children’s facilities and plenty of space. Self-catering cottages, apartments and campsites give you more freedom than hotels. Farm stays, glamping pods and youth hostels are affordable options too.
Creating magical memories doesn’t require jetting off overseas. With proper planning and these family staycation tips, you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday right here in the UK. Choosing a fun destination, packing wisely, building in flexibility and keeping costs down are all keys to a successful staycation. Most importantly, let go of busy schedules and make time simply to enjoy each other’s company.
