Before having kids, my number one requirement for a holiday was not having to cook! After having kids my mindset didn’t change at first. If anything I felt I really deserved that break. No cooking. No laundry washing. Bliss. However after having a few holidays in resorts, I soon discovered there are actually huge benefits of a self catering holiday.
Truth is when you go on holiday with young kids, it’s not really a break! You still have the same responsibilities, just in a slightly more glamorous location with maybe a cocktail in your hand. But the reality is, nappies still need to be changed, tantrums will still be had, and kids will still find shopping really boring.
Personally I have found self catering holidays as a family to be more relaxing, and less stressful than a resort stay. Or you can opt for the best of both worlds, and book a self catering accommodation in an incredible Rutherglen accommodation in Australia, or in a lovely Cornwall resort . Always my favourite British holiday destination.
The Benefits of a self catering holiday for families
Stick to your own routine
My kids do not cope well with lots of late nights. The odd one or two we can get away with, but anymore and my kids are quite frankly not very nice to be around! When big was younger he had an internal body clock that just switched off at 7 pm and he would demand to go to bed. I can’t tell you how many evenings I have spent in dark hotel rooms whispering to my husband whilst the kids sleep. It’s not much fun.
With self catering holidays you can stick to your own routine, and the kids normally get their own bedroom, so you get to enjoy your evening.
Food you like
Kids can be notoriously fussy eaters. Even if they are not fussy, they might not be very adventurous. At least with self catering you can make meals you know are going to be eaten.
You can still eat out
With self catering holidays you get the best of both worlds. There’s nothing stopping you going to a pub, cafe or restaurant.
No hangry kids
Nobody wants a hangry kid! I’ve often found that resorts do not suit our family meal times. The kids end up eating later than they normally would, or filling up on snacks as you try and pace them out until dinner time. With self catering, you can eat when you want.
Increases your holiday options
Camping, glamping, cottage, lodge, there are so many more options as to where you can stay and the type of accommodation you get, when you opt for a self catering holiday. Even if you go away as a big group, you can hire amazing properties and all share the cooking. Most come with BBQ equipment too. Whether you want to laze on the beach in a hammock, or visit a busting city, there are so may options.
Chill out in your PJ’s
Whilst it’s nice to get dressed up for dinner. Sometimes after a long day exploring and sight seeing, there’s nothing better than curling up with a movie and stuffing your face with pizza in your PJ’s.
I still have one rule with my self catering holidays. No laundry washing! I mean, you’ve got to have some break from normality haven’t you!
What do you think? Can you see the benefits of a self catering holiday, or do you prefer a resort holiday?
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