Planning a long-haul trip with your family is exciting but can also be daunting. Recently, I embarked on a three-week journey from the United Kingdom to South Africa with my young family. Despite my nearly three-decade-long travel career, I learned several new lessons.
Make your long-haul African family trip stress-free and full of fun, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Education in Travel Experiences
Travel is an excellent teacher. I remain a humble student. Lessons about adaptability, problem-solving, resilience, and horizon-expanding experiences abound.
With proper preparation, your trip can be stress-free and enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your journey, from planning to reminiscing.
Planning Your Trip
Here are some pointers to help you plan your long-haul family travel to Africa.
Fly Direct
Whenever possible, book direct flights to avoid the hassle of layovers, reducing travel time and the stress of navigating multiple airports.
Airport Lounge Access
Consider booking access to an airport lounge. Lounges offer comfortable seating options, snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi, making the wait more pleasant. Our travel insurance package included six airport lounge passes, and South Africa’s airport lounges are excellent.
There are a number of things to consider when booking your flights to Africa
Compact Carry-On Luggage
Use compact carry-on luggage to keep essentials handy and avoid the risk of lost checked baggage. Include travel snacks, entertainment, and a change of clothes for each family member.
A good neck pillow is a wise investment for lengthy flights and layovers. Remember to carry specific prescription medications in your carry-on. If they need refrigeration, make arrangements with your travel providers and lodging.
Understand Luggage Restrictions
Familiarise yourself with the airline’s luggage restrictions and prepare accordingly. Doing so helps avoid unexpected fees and frantic check-in desk repacking incidents. Unfortunately, I’m speaking from direct experience on this point. A teachable moment!
Food Intolerances and Aversions
Africa’s food and drink is a massive drawcard for discerning palates worldwide. Communicate any specific dietary requirements in advance to ensure a smoother journey. Many lodgings and hospitality establishments are happy to cater to special needs if informed beforehand.
Baking is just one of the fun activities your children can enjoy during a safari, Image Credit: andBeyond
Accommodation Tips
Looking for the best place to stay for your African family travel trip? Here are some I’ve learned from personal experience.
Family-Friendly Accommodation
Opt for exclusive-use accommodation, such as a private villa or apartment. Spread out in your dedicated space and enjoy privacy, making it easier to manage family routines. Banish traveller’s mom guilt because this way, you don’t need to worry about impacting fellow guests’ experience.
Some of my most memorable family trips have been at exclusive-use properties in South Africa: at the beach and on safari. A dedicated plunge pool, private chef, game drive vehicle, and safari guide experience means you can access a tailored holiday experience.
If you don’t fancy booking a villa or exclusive-use option, look at family suites with at least two bedrooms or a separate lounge area. Doing so allows for spacious sleep arrangements and a dedicated area for kids to spread out and play, which is invaluable during more extended stays.
Facilities to Make a Snack
Access to kitchen facilities is beneficial if meal times differ from your usual schedule, allowing you to prepare snacks and meals as needed. If you travel with babies, you can request a bottle warmer or microwave to prepare infant meals.
Pizza making is just one of the fun activities your children can enjoy at Singita Castleton, Image Credit: Singita
During the Flight
The flight can be the most stressful part of your long-haul trip. Here are some tips to make it less so.
Jet Lag Considerations
If travelling across time zones, prepare to minimise the impact on your circadian rhythm by adjusting your sleep schedule leading up to your departure. During the flight, stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals to help mitigate jet lag.
Travel in Quieter Months
Do your bit to make the industry more sustainable while benefiting from thinner throngs, which makes travelling around more pleasant. Travelling during autumn, spring and winter offers cool-cationing opportunities.
We travelled during March and April, and the weather was fantastic. Take advantage of long-stay deals and value adds during atypical travel seasons.
Dedicated safari guides will introduce children safely and comfortably to the wonders of the wild, Image Credit: Morukuru Family
Health and Safety
Travelling with kids means you’re more cautious. Here are some musts to help give you peace of mind.
Malaria-Free Doesn’t Mean No Mosquitos
Even in malaria-free areas, mosquitos can be a nuisance. Pack mosquito repellent, bands, and antihistamines to manage bites. Look for lodgings and safari camps with mosquito nets for a peaceful sleep.
Sun Protection
When travelling during warmer months, besides hats, sun-protection swimwear and sunglasses, bring sun tan lotion and after-sun care to protect your family’s skin from sunburn.
Travel Sickness Medication
If anyone in your family is prone to travel sickness, pack the necessary medication to ensure a comfortable journey.
Travel Insurance
Remember to purchase good travel insurance ahead of time, especially if travelling to far-flung areas where logistics may be more intricate than an urban holiday.
Kids of all ages will enjoy a family safari, Image Credit: Governors’ Camp
Good Travel Partners Make All The Difference
Having a reliable travel professional or private guide on the ground in the destinations you plan to visit has several benefits. They can provide local insights, help with logistics, and ensure a smoother experience, especially when things don’t go according to plan.
Tailored Tips for Different Ages
No matter their age, make sure they love the experience (and you get to, too!).
Toddlers
Bring familiar items like a favourite toy or blanket to comfort them. Use a lightweight stroller for easy navigation.
Little Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and small activities like colouring books in a suitcase with a fun, colourful design to keep them engaged while travelling.
Keep kiddies having fun and learning, Image Credit: andBeyond
Tweens
Involve them in planning the trip to keep them engaged. Consider allowing them to take their phone along or provide them with a camera to document their experiences. Help them keep tabs on its location so you return home with it.
Once back, suggest a family activity of making a photo book or video so they have a tangible documentary to show friends and reminisce about. You could recreate one of their favourite meals from the trip and cook it together once home.
Teens
Leverage their digital savvy by assigning planning tasks like an urban day out, researching alternative activities for rainy days and facilities at the accommodations that appeal to them. If bringing digital devices for staying in touch with friends while travelling, allow them secure access to Wi-Fi.
Ahead of departure, agree on reasonable boundaries around unplugging to ensure teens step away from the blue screen and enjoy being in the moment to relish the magic of Africa’s real-life experiences.
Africa really is the best destination for your family holiday, Image Credit: Royal Malewane
Creating Lifelong Memories
Going on safari, enjoying watersports, beachcombing, dining at world-class restaurants, and soaking in some of the world’s most exquisite scenery sets the stage for unforgettable family holidays. These experiences offer adventure, relaxation, and cherished memories.
I’m already planning my next trip to Africa. When is it your turn?
