Tips for planning a happy and successful UK staycation with children
The pandemic has been responsible for a change in many of our habits, and one that has seen a resurgence is that of the staycation. As Brits, we’ve realised that we’re very lucky to be surrounded by beautiful beaches and countryside right here. Travelling on holiday in the UK with children can still be stressful though. Here are our top tips on how to make your UK staycation with children successful. Choose kid-friendly holidays
One of the most important things to remember is that it’s everyone’s holiday. There has to be something for everyone and so you need to think carefully about what it is that everyone enjoys to make sure that your staycation is a success. So it’s important to choose your British staycation location carefully. 
Prepare to pack for all eventualities
You’ll most likely be travelling by car and therefore you’ll be able to take almost anything and everything you need. This can be anything from in-car entertainment, to particular foodstuffs if your child has food intolerances, to a favourite teddy to combat homesickness. Your daily travel pack is also a holiday essential so that when you’re out on your daily excursions, you have everything you might usually have with you on a day out (wipes, nappies, spare clothes, snacks, water bottles, first aid kit, rain gear etc). It’s a good idea to make sure that you add your children’s favourite board games and books to your packing list – just in case the British weather does its thing and the rains pour. And your phone chargers. Don’t forget those! Check out the local area before you travel
Get everyone excited before you leave. Check out the locality you’re visiting and plan a list of possible attractions for sunny or inclement weather. This will save time when you’re on holiday deciding what to do. Create a list, share it with your family and ask everyone to rank the things they’d like to do the most. It’s not always easy to be equal and fair but this a good place to start and it will help you plan your itinerary and budget. Be prepared for British weather
Do make sure that you pack your wet weather gear. Rain doesn’t need to stop play and if you’re fully geared up, there is no reason why you can’t have a joyous and adventurous holiday regardless of what the weather throws at you. Practice safety behaviour
Taking a child away to strange but exciting places comes with a risk of getting lost regardless of how vigilant you are. Practice safety drills with your children. If they suddenly find themselves alone, they may panic if they are too young to possess a mobile phone and so a well-practised routine will help. This may be returning to a specific spot, some children may be old enough to call you, or finding another parent/guardian nearby. Every time you go on an adventure, give your child an identity bracelet with your phone number on it. Staycations for families in Wales
Here at Afan Lodge, we’re just 8 minutes from the M4 but are nestled in amongst the beautiful Afan Valley with its walking and cycle trails. Swansea is half an hour to the West (ish) and Cardiff is 45 minutes to the East (ish). 
We believe that this makes for the perfect staycation. Whether it’s fresh air or a bustling city, it’s all nearby. We have a range of rooms including suites for up to 5 people plus an onsite restaurant and bar. Visit our accommodation pages. 