With more Brits than ever choosing to stay within the confines of the UK, national rail firms and British tourism organisations are keen to promote the UK’s public transport system as a practical, exciting way to get to holiday destinations.
But can travelling long distances on public transport ever be fun with the kids in tow?
It’s Green and Great for the mind
Teaching kids early about things like their carbon footprint is a great way instil committed environmentally ethical principles in the UK’s future generations. The environmental impact of air travel is significant, especially when compared to something like travelling by trains .
Similarly, as green-minded folks try to treat the earth well, they should do the same of their minds. Travel is said to be sustenance for the mind. They wouldn’t put synthetic nonsense into their kids’ diets, so why stuff them in a crowded plane for a stagnant travel experience? Travelling by train can teach kids to see the adventure in travelling from A to B (rather than teaching them a budget seat in cattle class is a great way to start a trip!)
Train travel, despite reputation, is actually one of the easiest ways to travel with children. In the car, a parent’s back is always turned to their quarrelling offspring, leading them to misbehave for attention. Car and plane both carry the dreaded tomes of “Are we nearly there, yet?” But train travel affords parents the time to lavish their children with attention (especially if they’ve got a table seat to lay out activities) There are toilet facilities, refreshments, space to stretch the legs and plenty of things to observe as the journey progresses.
Limit Baggage and Accessories
Each child should have their own small bag with some entertainment, contact information, refreshments and spare clothing. This bag should be small enough for them to carry but large enough to contain all items, e.g. their coat, books, etc. This frees up parents’ hands to carry larger cases without lots of annoying superfluous items hanging off their forearms! Always travel as light as possible.
Many train operators provide activity bags for children on long trips, but parents may have to ask for them either on the train or at the tourist office of their origin train station.
Opt for Package Deals
Frugality is a huge part of travelling by rail, and by using rail companies that offer things like 2for1 tickets, family passes and travel & accommodation deals, parents can take a lot of the hassle out of planning a trip.
Remember to book seats when possible to make sure everyone can sit together with a table and window. Choosing off-peak rail times can mean getting up to 75% off the usual fares.
Avoiding “Train Brain”
Long train journeys can send travellers a little sir crazy, but kids tend to handle this kind stress very well if they’ve got something to distract them. Smart devices with a few movies and some headphones, books, crayons, small toys and the attention of their parent is usually plenty for any kids enjoying the excitement of a holiday that starts with a train adventure!
