Your family holiday survival guide

A picture of an extended family on a beach

Far from getting away from it all, more and more of us are choosing to holiday with kids and grandparents in tow. More than 2.7m UK families embarked on a multi-generational holiday, according to research by Park Resorts. So how can you ensure everyone has a no-stress, argument-free break? Read on for our top 10 family trip tips...

Manage your expectations

'If you don't always get on well together at home, be prepared for a few minor disagreements on holiday - and don't stress about it too much,' says personal development specialist Jane Woods (www.changingpeople.co.uk). 'You won't all magically morph into tolerant, wonderfully accommodating human beings just because you're in different surroundings. So don't put yourself and everyone else under that pressure.'

Share and share alike

'Remember, it's a holiday for everyone - and responsibilities such as babysitting, cooking and driving duties should be shared equally wherever possible,' says Jane Woods. 'Agree what's expected from everyone before you go. And don't assume grandparents will look after the kids while you go out every night. It's not fair, and leads to resentment.'

Choose your destination wisely

'Research is crucial when planning a multi-generational holiday,' says Simon Downes, communications director at Amazing Retreats (www.amazingretreats.com). 'When selecting a destination, you need to think of the collective needs and interests of the entire family. If you want peace and quiet, for example, renting a property with a large garden can be ideal - but bear in mind you might want to be near a town where you can stock up on supplies or take the kids if they get restless.'

Sort your spending from the start

'It can be a bit of a sticky topic, but it's important to agree a budget - and who's expected to pay for what - before you even book your holiday,' says Bob Atkinson, travel expert at Travel Supermarket. 'This will help you to avoid rude shocks and awkward money discussions during your trip.'

Pack presents

'To keep the kids occupied throughout the journey and any long drives during the holiday, I always pack a few presents,' says Sophie Devonshire, founder of Babes with Babies (www.babeswithbabies.com). 'They can be tiny, normal things: a box of raisins, a carton of juice, some crayons, a little notepad... Wrapping them up magically transforms them into something exciting and to be treasured. Plus you can use them as bribes to get the children to stop whining!'

Split up!

'Don't feel you have to spend every waking moment together,' advises Bob Atkinson. 'Do some research beforehand to identify which local activities or sights interest everyone in your group, and maybe think about hiring more than one small car rather than one large one.'

Plan for bad weather

'Before you set off, accept that the weather might be bad - particularly if you're holidaying in the UK,' says Simon Downes. 'This is where your pre-holiday planning comes in handy again. Wet weather gives you the chance to do indoor activities without making everyone worry that they're missing out on the sunshine. Check out what local museums might be worth a look, for example. And if it's raining, water parks or surfing schools are a good option for the kids - plus the queues will be shorter.'

Plan down-time activities

'Have a family holiday book on the go,' suggests Jane Woods. 'This is a large scrapbook to which everyone can contribute. So remember to take glue and scissors with you - and everyone can keep a lookout for cards, tickets and other mementos to put in it as the holiday continues. Another tip is to take a humorous jigsaw puzzle along, and leave it in a place where everyone can have a potter with it when they've got a few minutes spare.'

Be prepared

Considering what might go wrong and preparing accordingly can make little problems much easier to deal with if and when they pop up. Pack a first-aid kit and make sure you have adequate insurance to cover everyone on the trip: a family policy usually works out a lot cheaper. Also, write your luggage labels in advance. 'And if you're flying, check in online the night before to ensure you all gets seat together,' suggests Bob Atkinson.

Factor in some me-time

'Remember, it's your holiday, too,' says Jane Woods. 'Think about what me-time really means to you. Is it a long lie-in? An hour in the shops? A swim with no little ones around? Then ask the other adults what they'd like to do to relax, and work together to ensure you can factor in everyone's needs. Clear communication is key. Don't expect others to take hints or read your mind. Be clear, specific and fair - and everything will be fine.' Happy holidays!