How do you choose the right large family holiday?
This is a question that comes up a lot when we work at Familytrip. Before giving you an answer, let's take a quick look at what a large family is. Some parents who only have one child are overwhelmed and already have the impression that they are in a large family : ) At Familytrip, we've set the lower limit at three children. And the upper limit? There isn't one, our record is 10 children, well done!
You'll find over 400 destinations for large family holidays at Familytrip. The number is quite colossal but that's normal because we really specialise in the family niche and therefore also in large families.
What type of accommodation for large family holidays?
When you have a large family you have more needs to satisfy to ensure your holiday goes well. For a start, you need space to accommodate the whole family. Holiday villages and holiday clubs generally offer accommodation for families of up to 6 or even 8 people. If you can afford to opt for this type of accommodation, it's great for large family holidays as you'll also have entertainment for the children.
If your family is made up of more than 6 people, you'll probably have to opt for a large family holiday in rented accommodation or on a campsite. This is a little, if not a lot, less relaxing, as there will be no entertainment. The ideal way to keep your children occupied is to opt for a holiday with a swimming pool or, even better, a water park. This brings us on to the services not to forget when going on a large family holiday village!
Because of the small number of holiday accommodations for large families, we have quite a few customers who decide to rent two flats side by side. This is often a little more expensive but it guarantees space and even two separate areas so that each child can find their place. If baby is having a nap, your other children can have fun in the other flat!
What amenities shouldn't you forget for a large family holiday?
When you have a large family, quite often the children are not all the same age! That's where the complexity in booking comes from. You have to find a holiday that suits everyone. How do you do that in a family that might have a teenager and a baby and little ones in the middle?
If you have the means and can find accommodation that suits your family you can opt for a holiday village or holiday club. The big advantage is the multitude of activities on offer. In addition to the activities, you can even have baby, children's and teenagers' clubs that will guarantee you a bit of rest.
If it's a bit too expensive, aim for a rental that's either close to the main activity of your holiday (sea or ski slopes) or has a swimming pool. Children of all ages love water. So you'll be able to satisfy both young and old.
The best advice for large family holidays!
We've saved the best for last. What do you think is the best advice for booking a great large family holiday? Is it the choice of accommodation? NO... Is it the choice of services? NO... then...
Well, to book successfully you need to get in early. Holidays for large families should not be booked at the last minute as there are never any large flats or accommodation available for large families. For a good summer holiday, bookings should be made by the end of February at the latest, and for a ski holiday by August at the latest! Yes, it's early but that's the price you have to pay for successfully booking a great large family holiday!