Millie Mackintosh may be the mother of two young children, but judging by her Instagram, a recent excursion to Dubai was a fun, child-free affair.
former Chelsea made Starr and husband Hugo Taylor are parents to two-year-old Sienna and one-year-old Aurelia. But they made the most of their adult-only mini-break, enjoying spa treatments, culinary delights, and a wardrobe that was clearly not meant for toddlers.
We are happy with them! To be honest! *quietly burning with jealousy*
But couples who travel the world know how to spend a stress-free vacation as a family. Is it possible to have a relaxing vacation with the kids? Millie may need a little more planning ahead, but traveling with kids doesn’t have to be an ordeal.
Here’s her best advice…
What was your first holiday as a family of four?
Last summer we took our first family trip to Zante, Greece. We made great memories together but vacationing with young children is certainly a different experience and requires a lot of pre-planning.I have been to Greece several times with Siena . The first was when she was 3 months old, and she was different when she went out as a family of four.
Since it was our first trip as a group of four, we brought our parents along as well, so Hugo and I could have some couple time and spend some quality time with both girls. We love holidays and being able to share them with our little ones now makes them even more special.
How is it different from a pre-vacation child?
Holidays without kids are really different, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes you feel like you need vacation after vacation because it’s more effort. Family vacations require more positive planning, so I love making lists ahead of time.
Before going to Greece, I woke up in the middle of the night and remembered that I needed to grab something else for my suitcase, so I added that to my list. But it can help you enjoy your trip properly when you’re away.
How has having one child changed your vacation from having two?
When you have one small child, it doesn’t make much of a difference. It’s just another little kid on board. When there are two all It’s different than the amount of luggage you need to move through the airport. Of course, there are always stressful times, but the special moments you have make the stress of a trip or vacation worth it.
What’s your top tip for new parents vacationing with kids?
one. I use a foundation brush to apply sunscreen to my wriggling baby. Your baby will have fun too, as it covers all the hard-to-reach areas.
two. Strange as it may sound, corn flour on the beach is a game changer. After you’re in the water, let your baby air dry for a bit, then liberally coat the areas where the sand is still on with a generous amount of flour. .
three. I discovered a sick bag phone hack during a flight to Greece. Insert the sick bag through the back of the phone cover and attach it to the tray in front of you. You can keep your phone at baby’s eye level and hands-free, turning your phone into your baby’s sense during noisy or boring moments.
four. For formula-feeding parents, the Aptamil Follow-on Milk Tub is a great way to eliminate the need to carry bulky tubs. Each tab is equivalent to a Formula 1 scoop, saving you time and space.
Five. I try to fly during the day, preferably during naps, so as not to disturb my baby’s daily routine. We had a night flight back from Greece and it was tough because we were both pretty tired and restless. People are certainly watching, and it’s hard, but I’m learning to work hard and not worry about it.
What beauty products are in your travel bag?
SPF for us and the kids of course – I love it La Roche Posay When Ultra Violet SPF50.
Lancome Renergy HCF Triple SerumWhen genifique sheet mask – My number one tip is to store these in the refrigerator.
of Kerastase Soleil hair coverage.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Mist When soothing serumfor me or girls, suitable for any area of irritated skin.
aptamil follow-on milk tab Nearly a quarter (23%) of parents admit to delaying much-needed vacations and outings due to the stress of traveling with children, according to the survey.
