With summer holiday season in full swing, avoid making simple travel mistakes for an easier trip
Going on holiday is a great way to discover somewhere new, connect as a family and have the opportunity to fully unwind, but it can still be a stressful experience.
But there are some ways to ease the stress and make it easier to plan your holiday, get to your destination and deal with any unexpected disruptions.
Before you jet off for a summer break, Wizz Air Senior Cabin Crew member Shivani Palshikar shared the mistakes she most commonly sees families make and how to avoid them.
Palshikar said: “The most important bag isn’t the suitcase in the hold. It’s the one you bring onboard.”
Parents can spend weeks planning what they need for their holiday, but carry-on luggage shouldn't be forgotten about. With hours of travelling to deal with, it is wise to keep snacks, drinks, wipes, spare clothes and entertainment easily accessible, the expert explained.
All parents hope it will never happen, but the expert recommended preparing for the worst. Ensuring children know their full name and phone number is key. It is also worth teaching them how to look for airport and airline staff to ask for help.
Palshikar said: “Airports are busy places, especially during summer. A simple conversation before you travel can make a huge difference.”
Palshikar said: “We see travellers caught out by flat batteries more often than you’d think.”
TRAVEL TIPS
Keep important booking details, accommodation information and emergency contacts available offline or in print in case technology lets you down, she added.
Take-off and landing can be stressful for children, so it is best to be prepared.
Palshikar said: "A lot of parents worry when children complain about their ears, but there are simple ways to help."
Sweets can encourage swallowing for older children, while younger children may benefit from drinking or feeding during take-off and landing. This can reduce discomfort caused by changes in cabin pressure.
Another big mistake is relying too heavily on one activity, especially devices that require charging. Instead, a mix of activities, such as colouring books, travel games, sticker books or small toys, can help keep children occupied throughout the journey.
Palshikar said: “Tablets are great until the battery runs out or children lose interest.”
Palshikar said: “Families often plan the flight in detail but give less thought to the first few hours after arrival.”
Do research before travelling so you know where children can rest, eat, drink and take breaks. This is particularly important if you’re arriving somewhere hot or unfamiliar.
Don't be afraid to ask for help throughout your journey. A small question early on can often prevent a much bigger problem later in the journey, Palshikar said.
She added: "Airline and airport staff help families every day. You don’t have to manage everything alone.”
