How to Holiday in Small Spaces with Kids

Campervanning or caravanning with kids can be a ton of fun, but when it comes to making the experience both restful and enjoyable for everyone, a little planning goes a long way! If you’re heading away with the grandies these holidays, here are some great tips to take with you.

On the road

Plan the pauses

Getting from A to B can be the trickiest part of the holiday. Prepare ahead by involving children in planning the stops. Help them research ‘playground pauses’ on sites such as Tots to Teens and Caresies.  Let them check out photo opportunities such as those with a giant carrot (Ohakune), a massive trout (Gore), or a whoppa cow (Morrinsville)–a one-stop shop for finding these Kiwi creations is Wikipedia’s List of NZ’s big things. A holiday’s not a holiday without a treat now and again, and enjoying one can be a great reason to take a break when on the road. Check out best ice-cream shop suggestions on sites such as Motorhomes ‘8 ice-cream stops,’ but remember: stopping in small towns rather than cities can be easier when it comes to parking.

Tune out

Whether you decide to listen to an audio book as a family while driving, or have everyone tune into their own device for individual choice, decide on a ‘listening hour’ before you head away. It means everyone gets time-out, and the driver gets absolute peace for an hour.

Roadie scavenger hunt

Print out a scavenger hunt before you leave home – one the kids can use as you travel (if you have very young children in the car, pop in a picture beside the object).  Items to hunt for might include: an arched bridge, a cyclist, a pig, and a police car.

Once you arrive

A room of their own

Campers and caravans are tight on space. Give the kids their own place to hang out by pitching a play tent alongside your vehicle, or partitioning off a section of awning. It will fast become the young one’s ‘den.’

Wrestling with routine

The best way to disrupt routine is to go on holiday! Instead of stressing about it, involve the kids in deciding on a special ‘holiday routine.’ That way, they’ll feel empowered and will be more likely to comply!

Rainy day distractions

Being cooped up in a camper or caravan on rainy days is no fun. Instead of coping with chaos, head out to see what indoor destinations your new surroundings have to offer. They may include a library holiday program, an indoor swimming pool, an art gallery or museum, or an indoor playground.

Op-shops are tops!

Instead of loading down your camper with games and equipment and unpacking it all when you return home, head to the local op-shop when you arrive at your holiday destination. The kids can choose a toy or a game, then swap these for new ones when they’ve had their fun. Op-shops are also great sources of craft materials for rainy day activities.

Movie night

If you’re not careful, campers and caravans can become a rumpus room in the after-dinner hour. Plan ahead for peace and quiet by downloading movies before you leave home. While you wind down from dinner in the ‘adults only’ area (the picnic table and chairs outside) the kids can enjoy the screen. By packing some popping corn, they can enjoy a snack at the same time.

Quiet time

Everyone, including children, wants to zone out from time to time. Designate a spot in your caravan or camper (such as a corner of the double bed or a special seat turned towards the wall of the awning) for anyone who wants ‘quiet time.’ Pop a few books and a rug in the space, and hang up a ‘please don’t disturb’ sign. This little haven may save a multitude of meltdowns!

Camping and caravanning is the ultimate in kiwi holidaying. Plan ahead to ensure every day is enjoyment to the max!