Catering for all the family this half term

Going on holiday with your family can be a fun and exciting experience, giving you the chance to bond and create happy memories that last a lifetime.

However, this perfect vision of the ideal family holiday can be hard to achieve.

Families can be a nightmare, especially when it comes to holidays. Not only will you have to try and find entertainment to keep the teenagers happy, but grandparents will also need to be looked after. Half-term might be just one week, but it could be a disastrous one if you don't get your holiday plans absolutely right.

Here are a few ways to make your half-term holiday run smoothly.

1. Destination

Where you go will make a big impact on your holiday. For example, a city break could be perfect for you and the children, but grandparents might not like the hustle and bustle of a new city.

A beach resort might be ideal for those who want to lounge around but young children will probably want a bit of adventure, so you might have to find a holiday destination that caters for all ages and needs. It could be a good idea to sit the family down together and decide collectively where you go. That way the children can feel involved and get excited about their half-term adventure.

2. Planning & packing

Planning and packing are essential for the ultimate family holiday. Get everyone as involved as possible in the decision making process, as well as planning and packing. By allotting each child the responsibility of planning one day's activity, everyone can enjoy an aspect of the family holiday and compromise when others want to do something as well.

It could be a good idea to start packing a week before the holiday, just so you can avoid the frantic rush around the house for the sun cream or favourite toy and passports on departure day. Write a list of everything you think the family will need and it could be a good idea to get each family member to write a list of their own as well.

3. Best behaviour

Family holidays are breeding grounds for arguments so why not try and avoid this by encouraging your children to be on their best behaviour. You could create a countdown calendar for your little ones in the build-up to the holiday, encouraging them to earn treats when away for their good behaviour.

4. Extras

As well as finding a bargain holiday for all the family, you might want to think about cheap travel insurance. You never know what could happen and it might bring you peace of mind knowing that your family is financially protected should anything go wrong. Single trip travel insurance could be perfect if this is your one holiday of the year. You'll also need to think about car hire, airport parking and a whole host of other little bits that can be arranged before going.