Time-tabling

Practicalities Getting Organised Time-tabling 

Keep It Simple

If you haven't travelled with children before, aim to keep the mechanics of things, like meals, and dressing straightforward. Work out how much time will be needed even for this pared down routine, and you will have a good idea of how much time you will have to do anything more demanding.

The detail of time-tabling is a very personal issue. Meals for adults only at 9pm can be ideal with children who eat early and then go to sleep, but difficult with children who expect to eat every evening with their parents. Only you will know what will work with your offspring.

Take Note of the Child's Natural Rhythms

Once a baby is old enough not to sleep any time, any place, any where it will help to timetable journeys more carefully to take account of sleeping and waking patterns.

Stick to Routine

This is particularly helpful when it comes to eating and sleeping, even for rather older children. Factoring in similar bath and play times can make things feel even more comfortable.

Allow for Quiet Times

Even when too old for regular naps, this also be helpful - unless you have particularly super energetic offspring.

Allow Plenty of Time

At least half an hour or even an hour before officially you need to arrive for check-ins and departure, earlier if you know that there will be something like a cafe visit to fill any leftover time. The aim is to give you extra time for taking longer with children, plus some slack for at least one lavatory visit. Also make sure that any changes for example of aircraft, leave you plenty of room for manoeuvre.

Allowing spare time for each section of a trip can help avoid over excitement and nausea in children given to travel sickness.

Make Sure Timings are Manageable

You need to consider for example how long any transfers are likely to be. One hour with a toddler in a coach is considered ample by most parents.

Look if possible for an afternoon return if you are not travelling independently. Otherwise you may have to leave your accommodation by midday . Alternatively you can arrange a late checkout or temporary accommodation.

Aim to be as Relaxed as Possible

If you are tense it is likely to rub off on the children.

Be Flexible

If your plans don't suit a small child their feelings will make themselves felt and everyone will suffer. If at all possible, better to work out an option to suit both you and the child, even if it means last minute adjustment.