Getaway ideas for the family

In need of a getaway but not sure where to go? Here we have some ideas for a quick getaway for you and the kids along with tips to make it easier.

The best thing about a holiday, whether it is over night or a month long, is coming home feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and slightly better for the experience. Keeping this in mind, no matter where you go, take every opportunity to get out and walk, as fresh air and exercise not only gives you more energy, it helps clear the mind of everyday worries.

Although it’s good to be prepared for anything, travelling light is key for a quick trip. Taking everything but the kitchen sink can soon get you bogged down packing, setting up and unpacking. If you find you have forgotten something, don’t panic, just keep in mind that babies and kids are extremely adaptable and will probably cope fine without it.

Considering camping with a baby? Go for it! They will love the close proximity of sleeping with their parents. Going away for one night or two to test the waters (more for you than the baby) is ideal.

You can choose to take your own tent, or try camping facilities like this Sydney harbour location, where everything is set up for you.

As a family you can stay in some of Australia’s prettiest spots with all the mod-cons of your own home: kitchen, family room and best yet extra pairs of hands available to help entertain the kids for less than half the price of a hotel room.

What’s more, YHA has family memberships where you can save even more and many hostels have private family rooms available.

For those just after a change of scene, but feel more comfortable in more homely, private accommodation with the kids, keep an eye out for family-friendly holiday houses, there are even holidays houses that are pet friendly.

Be careful to check saftey issues, for example the house pictured has no pool fence.

Like the idea of renting a holiday house but worried about the budget? Try these sites Aussie House Swap and House Swap Holiday, in which you get to stay free, by simply swapping your house.

It takes bit of effort to find the right swap-ee but get it right and you won’t even have to lug toys, baby stuff, or cots around with you.

You don’t have to travel to a different state to get deals on theme parks. If you are planning to take the kids to a local amusement park, search the internet for accommodation or dinning packages. Having a hotel close by to have a midday rest will give you a sense of escape and keep you from feeling exhausted at the end of the day.

Getting back to nature can help get rid of stress and it is a great learning experience for the kids.

Try driving to a national park close by for a bush walk or picnic, but remember to read the rules of each park first.

A trip to the city zoo on the holidays can be a bit crowded, so why not head out to your state’s open zoo. Many have overnight packages like the Western Plains Zoo.

If you are an early riser (to beat the traffic), get organised and pack the car the night before, bundle the kids in the car and hit the open road. Make sure you have your accommodation sorted before you leave and don’t be tempted to under-estimate driving distances each day.

If you are concerned about driving the distance, especially as anything can happen to slow you down (kids getting car sick is common) or you don’t want to stick to a strict timeline driving your own accommodation around could be the solution for a stress free road trip.

Make sure you request a map of caravan parks when you hire your vehicle.

If your kids are into history and culture, a trip to Canberra is a must. Not only is everything open on public holidays, but most museums and galleries are free.

Activities include an ‘early’ hot air balloon ride, the National Dinosaur Museum, National Zoo and Aquarium, bike around Lake Burley Griffin or paddle on it and on a kids must do list is a visit to the Questacon

The best thing about travelling overseas with kids under two is that they fly for free (or almost), although this is not the age group that some hotels target. Kids club hotels offer daily activities that go far beyond any day care centre but warning it’s not for everyone, the older they are the better.

If your kids are old enough to learn abseiling by themselves, they will have enough fun that you can relax without the guilt and enjoy yourself.

For more on overseas travel and flying with a baby visit our gallery here.