Easter Getaway Tips

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The Easter holidays are nearly here and it is a popular time for family holidays as people take advantage of the Easter long weekend. We are really looking forward to Easter and having a well deserved break from work and school. This Easter break we are joining our extended family for a mini break on Rottnest Island. Rottnest Island is a small island located 18 km off the West Australian coast and has been a favourite holiday destination for WA families for many years. I had a few wonderful holidays there as a child but it has been many years since I have visited. It is a great opportunity to ride bikes, visit the bakery, go fishing, and see some wildlife. Here are some of our holidays snaps from the 1970’s. Back then you were allowed to feed the quokka’s.

The accommodation on Rottnest Island is fairly rustic and as there will be a large group of us sharing a house, we need to take some supplies with us. We have put together a list of our top Easter getaway tips to ensure a great holiday.

1. Check your equipment ahead of time

Although we aren’t camping, we do need to take sleeping bags and air beds on our getaway. We have aired out our sleeping bags so they are ready. When we checked our self-inflating air bed, we discovered the batteries had just started to leak. The bed hasn’t been used for a few years – we don’t camp out much. I have replaced the batteries with Energizer Max. They hold power for up to 10 years and protect your devices against leakage which is perfect for items like air beds and camping equipment that we don’t use that often. There is nothing worse than expensive items getting damaged by leaking batteries.

2. Pack a torch

Our accommodation has an outside toilet. We don’t want to run into any quokkas in the dark so a torch is a must! The kids are also planning to use the torch to play spotlight with their younger cousins. We have replaced our torch batteries with Energizer Max so they don’t run out over the holiday. There is no need for spares as the power lasts for up to 10 years when not in use.

3. Take a selection of board games

A family holiday is the perfect opportunity to play some board games. We will have three generations of our family together, so it is a great opportunity for some competitive gaming (kids v’s adults etc). Games like pictionary and scattergories are perfect for larger groups as you can play in teams. Games are a great way to have some fun in the evenings. The teens can’t wait to teach their cousins the Settlers of Catan, our current favourite board game.

4. Take some quiet activities

When taking a holiday with a big group, it is nice to find some time to slip away and spend a peaceful hour or two walking along the beach, reading a book or magazine under a tree, or working on a craft project (such as knitting).  I am going to take a small stitchery that I am working on. If you have younger children, make sure they pack some quiet activities too – a book, hand held gaming console, some drawing supplies. If they are taking a gaming device make sure you have enough batteries in case access to electricity for recharging is limited. Use good quality batteries so they will last longer and keep the kids entertained. Energizer Max last up to 3 times longer than standard alkaline batteries.

5. Don’t forget your camera

Family holidays are the perfect opportunity for some great family photos. With all of my extended family together, I am hoping to get some lovely images.

6. Be Prepared – Take a first aid kit

We always travel with a simple first aid kit in case anyone feels unwell or gets a scrape. We also take sun cream and bug spray as a precaution.  Being prepared can make for a safer and happier holiday.

7.Home baked treats

Getting lots of fresh air and exercise, always helps to build up an appetite. We love to take some home baked treats on holidays to share. They are always much tastier and healthier than store bought items. Muffins, fruit cakes, and cookies all travel well.  Sarah plans on doing some Easter baking next week so we have plenty of goodies to take along.

We are really looking forward to our family holiday. What are your best tips for an enjoyable family Easter getaway?