A family holiday is the best way to create long-lasting memories, explore new locations, and bond with your loved ones. Whether your kids are toddlers or teenagers, a road trip around the UK is ideal. With this, you can easily visit numerous places within a short distance and fit lots of family-friendly activities into your itinerary.
To help give you some ideas, we’ve come up with a guide for how to plan the perfect family road trip, including some of the top locations in the country.
Map out your route
It’s important to decide what locations you want to visit first so that you’re able to plan the best route possible. The UK is home to some incredible destinations, from historic cities like York and Bath to the stunning countryside of the Lake District.
When planning the route, think about the distance between each location and how far you are willing to travel. Consider stops on the way to help break up the drive and potentially explore some lesser-known hidden gems.
Choosing the right vehicle
A road trip requires a suitable car that can accommodate the whole family. If your current vehicle is too small or a little worse for wear, then you may need to consider upgrading to a newer model. Look for a vehicle that provides enough space for your luggage and your children while still being comfortable.
An SUV or minivan is a suitable choice given the storage capacity needed for long journeys. They also tend to have better safety features; for example, the Hyundai Tucson offers advanced driver assistance systems like brake assist and speed-sensitive automatic door locking. Additionally, consider the fuel efficiency of the vehicle, as this may help to save on long-distance travel costs.
Booking your accommodation
If you’re planning on travelling during the peak holiday season, then you’ll need to secure your accommodation in advance. Booking ahead of time could also secure you better deals and a wider variety of options.
Opt for family-friendly venues like hotels, B&Bs, or campsites – should you prefer a more adventurous experience. Remember, you’ll probably be spending most of your time outside discovering what each location has to offer. So, as long as you have enough space and a comfortable bed, you’re sure to enjoy your time.
Packing the essentials
Whatever the time of year, you must pack appropriately for the varying British weather. One day it may be sunny and then suddenly it turns into a torrential storm. Make sure to bring with you layers, waterproof jackets, comfortable walking boots, and any other equipment that will be needed for the activities in your itinerary.
If you plan on swimming in Cornwall, bring some swimming trunks or costumes along and some spare towels. If you want to go hiking in the Yorkshire Dales, consider walking sticks for the children and some walking trousers. And don’t forget some first-aid supplies in case of any scrapes or falls.
You’ll also need to bring some road trip items along with you in case you get lost, stuck in traffic, or your car breaks down. Useful items include a roadmap, tyre inflator, jumper cables, emergency roadside assistance kit, and reflective clothing.
