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Travelling is stressful.  Travelling with kids under 5 is even more stressful.  I should know I’ve got twin boys and I’ve taken countless flights with them and several solo flights.
Along the way, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t.

Before Your Trip

Preparation is key.  Gone are the days when you could shove some clothes in a bag the night before.  Now, you need at least a few days to be organised.

Flights

Booking – Book flights for nap time or in the morning.  Little kids are always much happier after a big night’s sleep.  If you book for nap time the take-off will help them to fall asleep.  All that lovely motion and rumbling noise is a winner.

Seats – Pick seats at the back of the plane near the toilets.  Easy for kids potty training or quick nappy changes.  Or, Pick seats at the front with more legroom.  They cost a bit more, but give lots of space for your kids to sprawl out and play a bit.

Avoid – Night flights and late afternoon flights.  Evening flights and night flights always seem to end up with babies who haven’t slept well and cry through most of the flight.  Stressful for you and everyone else on the plane.

Carry-On Packing

Clothes – Pack two changes of clothes in your carry-on luggage.  Accidents of all nature are bound to happen.

Snacks – Hungry kids are cranky kids.  Always have plenty of healthy snacks packed (snacks help to fill up tummies and ease boredom). Pack as many snacks as you can fit.  Too many is better than not enough.

Pack some treats – Bring some little chocolates or lollies that your kids don’t normally have – it might just stop a potential tantrum in its tracks!

Laptop/Tablet/Phone – Download your kids favourite shows from YouTube – this way you still have some entertainment on hand even if you have no wifi.  If you have more than one kid, buy a headphone splitter.  This way both kids can watch the same show with headphones.

Toys and Fun – Don’t take too many toys, just one or two is enough.  I have found it is best to avoid drawing as well.  In a split second your child goes from drawing on the paper to drawing on the plane.

Passports/Money/Itinerary – Goes without saying.

I have found that it great to invest in a small carry on luggage for your child.  My boys love to pull their Spiderman bags and it stops them running off.  This way they can carry their snacks and toys too.

The Flight

Timing – Allow for way too much time. It always takes so much longer to get through all the lines with your kids.

Queues – Look for priority and family lines. Queuing up with kids is horrendous.

The Pram – Ask for a gate ticket for your pram. This way you can keep your pram right up to the gate.  You can also ask for your pram to be delivered to the gate on the other end.  This way you can use your pram as soon as you get off the plane.

The Holiday

Rest Day – On the first day, RELAX. Everyone will be a bit grump and tried.  You may not have slept well with time differences.  Aim for a day by the pool, or enjoying your hotel facilities.  Just take it easy.

Activities – Little kids get tired quickly. Plan for one activity a day.  This can help avoid potential overtired tantrums. Plan activities around naps as much as possible.

Go with the Flow – Be prepared to leave your routine at home. Keep to a good bedtime as much as possible but relax the routine for a holiday.  There might be naps on the go and a few lates nights.

Most of all…have a great time, but, be as prepared as possible.

– Faith Thoms 

Many thanks to our guest blogger

Brisbane Holiday Village would like to thank the amazing Faith Thoms for her guest blog on Travelling with Kids under 5!

Scooter riding, Bali living mum of twin boys who loves sleep, but enjoys early morning, can’t live without coffee, reading, and endless cuddles from her two little boys and husband. Faith spends her days working with lovely parents, wiping noses and bottoms, and always looking to organise her family’s next travel adventure!

Faith owns a website called The Parenting Co.

When you’ve been planning a family holiday for months, the last thing you want is for you or your little ones to get sick.

Guest Blogger: House Call Doctor has some tips on how you and your family can stay healthy on your holiday.

Slip Slop Slap!

While it may sound basic, it is important to protect yourself and your family from the sun, regardless of the season. Don’t forget to:

Slip on sun protective clothing

Slop on some sunscreen, and

Slap on a protective hat to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion, even in the winter months.

Avoid food poisoning

If you’re on a camping holiday and have limited access to facilities, or if you’re simply enjoying a cheese platter over a matter of hours, it is important to be cautious of contracting food poisoning.

Assistant Clinical Director Dr Ryan Harvey at House Call Doctor recommends you keep food at regulated temperatures to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

“Make sure meats aren’t left out to defrost, cold foods (including eggs) are kept in the fridge, and meats are cooked through before you eat them,” he said.

“Don’t leave snacks like cheeses or dips out for too long in the heat either.”

Exercise!

Staying fit and active is one of the best ways to boost your immune system and avoid getting sick. While holidaying in Queensland, you could have a swim in South Bank, or go for a riverside jog, or even hike Mount Coot-tha. With all the sightseeing and exploring awaiting you on your holiday, this should be easy!

According to Dr Harvey, “Children who are active every day will demonstrate lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones and a decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.” So while staying healthy on your holiday, you can also set good habits for the health and wellbeing of little ones in your family.

Be aware of travel sickness

If you’re driving for lengthy periods, some family members may get car sick.

• Keep windows slightly open to let in a breeze
• Pack some healthy snacks in the car to help reduce nausea.

If you are heading off on a cruise and feel seasick, we recommend you:

• Keep your eyes on a fixed point or look out to the horizon.
• Avoid foods that are rich in fats or spicy, as they have been known to worsen symptoms of motion sickness.

Many thanks to our guest blogger

Brisbane Holiday Village would like to thank the House Call Doctor for their guest blog on Keeping your Family Healthy on Holiday!

House Call Doctor sends a home doctor to you and your family when your regular GP is closed at night and on weekends and public holidays.

To book a house call home doctor, patients should call: 13 55 66. You can also book online or via the House Call Doctor App.

Looking for a winter getaway? Brisbane City is the perfect place to take the family!

When the winter chill sets in the beaches of the great South East become an icy exclusion zone for holiday makers. So why not take the family and enjoy a city escape minus the crowds (and the peak holiday season tariffs)?

Brisbane holds a treasure trove of things to do, see and eat, places to stay and offers activities for the whole family!

Winter in Brisbane

Firstly, let’s talk about the weather. Brisbane’s subtropical climate offers a dry and mild winter weather compared to summer’s hot and sweaty days dotted with unpredictable storms and torrential downpours. This means your family has more opportunity to enjoy time outdoors without constantly reaching for the bug spray! The natural beauty of Queensland’s national parks are arguably at their peak in the middle of the year – despite the ‘winter’ label. You’ll also rarely see the overnight temperature in Brisbane drop below 10 degrees in the winter months – so whether you’re camping, caravanning, staying in a hotel, motel or resort, your comfort level won’t be too far removed from summer months.

To make your planning easier, we have pulled together a list of must-dos for the kids!

There are so many great kid friendly things to do in Brisbane including:  bowling, ice skating and Sky Zone trampolining. The Museum of Brisbane, Queensland Museum, Sciencentre and Queensland Rail Museum all offer fun-filled days of learning and activities, offering interactive exhibits on natural history, science, art and more. If the kids are into animals, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Paradise Country and Australia Zoo are all located nearby. Brisbane also has a number of parks and public gardens around including the lush Botanical Gardens  in the City and  Mt Coot-Tha – so why not pack a picnic and have some quality time in the great outdoors with your family?

Speaking of outdoors, why not take the kids to Mt Coot-tha and enjoy a walk to JC Slaughter Falls? You can see art work by local Aboriginal artists along the way.  You can also head up to the lookout for one of the most amazing views of Brisbane city.

Brisbane also offers a number of exciting markets. Located at South Bank, Riverside, Fortitude Valley, New Farm Park and West End – there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained and you might be able to pick up some local treasures as well.

South Bank is a must see while in Brisbane, offering playgrounds, plenty of food and shopping options for you and the kids.

Of course, if your kids want even more excitement, theme parks are one of the best places to take the kids whilst on holidays and Brisbane is conveniently located near some of the best. Movieworld, Dreamworld, Seaworld, Aussie World and Underwater World and all located within 30 minutes from the Brisbane City centre.

The options for a fun-filled winter escape are endless – so come and explore Brisbane with the family!

Article by Brisbane Holiday Village, a family owned and run holiday park specialising in holiday cabins, camp sites and caravan site accommodation options and offering a huge range of resort-style facilities for the whole family. Our website is: www.brisbaneholidayvillage.com.au

For all enquiries, please contact our friendly reception desk on 07 3341 6133, or email sales@brisbaneholidayvillage.com.au

When it comes to Holidays, it can sometimes feel like you need a holiday after your holiday!

The truth is, while holidays are a great way to spend quality time with your family and friends, you need to lay the groundwork before you go.

Once you have the details down, the big stuff begins to take care of itself. After all – You deserve a stress free holiday too!

Do you remember the family holidays you went on when you were a kid?

The excitement of packing all your holiday clothes; the car, plane or train ride there; your parents setting up the tent or organising the rooms of your cabin – and then the fun! Totally stress free right?

Well… maybe for you!

Don’t worry. We’ve got some great tips for making your next family holiday as stress free as possible!

Location, Location, Location

There is a holiday for everyone – you just need to find it!

While it seems like an obvious starting point, deciding where to take the family can be half the battle.

Should we go somewhere new? Somewhere that is renown for being family friendly? Sandy beaches or lush mountains?

The old saying is true – Location matters!

To keep the stress free vibes flowing, make sure to consider:

1. The Weather

• Do the kids have any allergies or sensitivities to the sun?
• What about the cold?
• Many families try to holiday in places with similar weather or temperature to where they live – just with a bit more sun (or a bit less)

2. What will the Kids Learn?

• There’s always an opportunity to learn something new when on holidays, and there’s no better place to start then when choosing your destination!
• Think about the things you loved to learn about when you were little
  • Did you like exploring? Maybe pick a place where your kids can explore
  • Enjoy learning new skills? What about a place that offers local attractions or fun facilities?
• Mixing in some new culture, a local language or a new experience, can not only be fun, but while the kids are entertained you don’t need to stress!

3. Are we nearly there yet?

• Travel time can put a huge dent in the idea of ‘stress free’. The last thing you want is to arrive at your holiday destination after a tense car ride of ‘don’t make me turn this car around’.
• This will depend on your children – their ages and temperaments.
• Ask yourself:
  • Will they stay entertained throughout the journey? Or should you look closer to home?

4. Local Amenities

• Consider what you need and what the local or surrounding area can offer you.
  • Do you want the kids to have access to tennis courts, mini golf, pools, or sports fields?
  • Perhaps you want a shopping centre within walking distance of your cabin, caravan or tent?
  • Maybe you’re after a free-range fun vibe.
• Consider a Holiday Park
  • Holiday parks and resorts (like Brisbane Holiday Village) offer great accommodation options (if we do say so ourselves) and are often more affordable than hotels.
  • Offering:
    • Holiday Cabins (from 3 star cabins to 5 star penthouses)
    • Powered and unpowered camp, campervan and caravan sites
    • Caravan with luxury ensuites
    • XL sites
• Whatever you and your family are after on your holiday experience – make sure it’s on offer before you book!

Check that off the list

The last thing you want to do is panic halfway down the driveway, thinking that you have forgotten something!

To keep things stress free, we recommend making a list of all essential items required for your holiday.

Ever decided to simply pack the car and head to your favourite holiday cabin in Brisbane for a quick time-out? Or maybe a a desire to head out to some faraway place, find a caravan park or campground and relax for the weekend?

Studies show that at nearly 15% of Aussies have planned a last-minute trip just one week prior to their departure. Stress at work, the need for a break, and wanting to spend time with family often drives our decisions to get away from it all – and FAST!

Look for Deals and Best Rates

Before you pack your bags and fly out the door, jump online and check for last-minute deals.

Quite often caravan parks and holiday villages will have discounts available – which you can take advantage of and save some money to spend on your quick getaway.

If you prefer to book online, always compare rates quoted on 3rd party sites and booking apps to those on the hotel’s own site. There are some amazing deals out there, but by checking a hotel’s website it’s often cheeper to simply book direct!

For example: Brisbane Holiday Village offers the best rates of all 3rd party bookings sites that list our accommodation – with 10% off daily rates for booking direct!

Bang for your Buck

While you’re checking out the best rates, high and low seasons, and generally stalking the internet for the best deal, make sure you don’t forget about what it is you’re actually getting.

You may secure a room for a week at a cool hotel for $450.. But, your room may also be right above the restaurant that hosts open-mic karaoke from 6 – 10 every night, charges $25 for 5 minutes of dial-up internet and requires a VIP swipe card in order to use any of the facilities – which conveniently (or inconveniently), wasn’t part of your package.

The point is: Check the facilities on offer!

At Brisbane Holiday Village, we have a huge range of facilities and nearly all of them are FREE!

• 18-hole Mini Golf (small fee to hire putter)
• BBQ Area
• Tennis Court (small fee to hire tennis racket and balls, but you can use your own for free if you have them)
• On-Site Restaurant – Lagoona Resort Restaurant
• Resort-style Pool
• Kid’s Splash Pool
• Multi-purpose Sports Field
• Playgrounds
• Instant PhotoBooth
• Table Tennis (small fee to hire paddles and balls, but you can use your own for free if you have them)
• Bike Track
• Bird Feeding
• Amenity Blocks
• Laundries (coin operated machines)
• Welcome Lounge

Check Social Media and Sign-up for Newsletters

Social Media has everything these days. It can often be a bit of a hassle for a hotel or resort to update their whole website for just a few spare rooms – So check the Socials! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc, can be a haven of last-minute trip deals. You don’t have to see their posts all the time – but they’ll be there when you need them!

Another good idea is to sign up to a few online newsletters (like ours)– there may be a last-minute trip with your name on it! Most holiday parks aren’t spammy with their emails (we’re not) – once a month you’ll receive deals, specials, prizes, tips and tricks for all your holiday needs!

Check the Bank Balance

This one seems fairly obvious.. but you don’t want to plan a last-minute trip without ensuring that you do, in fact, have enough money to get you there and back!

Make sure that your everyday transaction account has enough money in it to get you to through your trip.

• Remember that not everywhere accepts cards (and some places even levy a surcharge).
• Have a back-up plan: it might be worth transferring some money across from your savings just to make sure that you’re covered.

The best way to ensure that your last-minute trip is budget friendly, is to ensure that it does fit in your budget!

Don’t Forget the Essentials

Again with the obviousness.. but once you’ve booked your trip – don’t run out the door just yet!

While it can be tempting to rush and pack quickly, this can lead to inconvenience when you arrive and find that all your underwear (or that very important medication) was left back at home, sitting on the kitchen bench.

Save yourself the hassle of being without your essentials, and the spending needless money to replace them, and double check to make sure that you’ve packed your toiletries, medications and other things that you just can’t live without.

If you do happen to forget things (because you’ll, of course, be staying with us #shameless), Brisbane Holiday Village has its very own convenience store that’s chock full of essential toiletries and food!

Fuel in the Tank?

There’s nothing worse than a getaway car that breaks down before your house leaves your review mirror..

That’s not to say ‘get a full service done’ before you leave.

Simply stop at a servo on the way, fill the tank, check your oil, water and coolant levels and make sure that your ride has the best chance of leaving your worries in the dust!

Think of the money you’ll save if you take 3 minutes to fill the coolant up or top up the water. Better spending 3 minutes and $6 on coolant, than a 4 hour walk, a new radiator hose and getting heatstroke whilst waiting for a truck to tow your car!

Get travelling!

Go forth and book your last-minute trip!

– The BHV Team

Follow us on our socials: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for great discounts, competitions and prizes!

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Think OUTside the box!

Winter is OUT, Summer is IN and we have some awesome tips for your next camping trip!

There are lots of different holiday styles. You can hop on a plane to another country, stay in a holiday cabin a few hours from your home, head to a resort or jump in your car and go camping –  we are very fortunate in this country to have a plethora of amazing holiday choices. However, the limiting factor for most people is balancing the cost of the holiday and where you go/what you do. Unless you’ve found a tree in your backyard that sprouts dollar bills (please hook me up if you have!), you’ll have to do the finance dance like the rest of us.

OR… you could go camping.

Camping – The poor man’s holiday?

What?? No Way!

Exempting your die-hard, best-of-everything campers with waayyyy too much money to spend on completely ridiculous gear (portable solar-powered oven anyone?), camping is fairly inexpensive on the finance front. However, in terms of actual holiday experiences, camping ranks pretty high on the awesome scale.

So what’s great about camping?

Well: It’s outdoors. It’s a novelty. And it offers perfect family time. As someone who relished the family road trips and even slept out in a homemade tent in the backyard, I’m shocked to hear that some camping is often pushed into too-hard basket when it comes to families.

There’s something amazing about camping – it’s an adventure in itself. You don’t need to pay for entertainment – the world is your entertainment! Setting tents up, sleeping under the stars, sitting around and telling ghost stories, daytime fishing, exploring the surrounding area and appreciating the wildlife is what makes camping such a great experience!

While camping and preparation sounds like lots of work is required, it can be surprisingly easy (assuming you don’t try to go professional on your first time out). Remember: you must learn to walk before you run!

Check out our Top Tips for summer camping trips:

1.   Safety First

• Prepare for all climates
  Bring wet weather gear no matter what, including raincoats and a weatherproof fly for the tent. A warm jumper is a good idea too.
• Pack a repair kit
  Some gaffer/duct tape, extra rope, a sewing kit and even spare poles will seem like dead weight in the boot of your car until you need them. Then, one day, they suddenly become your saviour.
  The last thing you want to deal with is that cheap tent you skimped out on (see – 2. Equipment) snapping a tent-pole and the rain you thought you avoided, unloads 2 weeks worth of water onto your campsite while you and the taller of your children take turns holding the tent up as your wife watches sullenly and rather wetly from the family car. Heavy-duty tape would have been a much quicker fix.
• Prioritise First Aid
  Check your First Aid kit is fully stocked and replenished before leaving as it will come in handy for emergencies big and small.

2.   Equipment:

• Check all your equipment before you go
  Make sure all the bits and pieces are there before you take off to avoid nasty surprises upon arrival. If equipment is new, give it a trial run at home – specially tents and stoves
• Borrow equipment
  This is a good one for first-timers. If you’re not sure how much you’ll love your first camping adventure, borrow gear from your friends and family (or rent it). This way you won’t skip on buying a cheap tent and end up sleeping in your car while your tent slowly fills with water, hating the experience.
• Choose the right equipment
  When it does come time to buy, think carefully about what your family needs. Choose a tent that is big enough and easy enough to put up and pack away. Buy good quality gear, once. And don’t compromise on quality. Research the products before you buy them, get good value for money and a quality product and you’ll have it for years to come.

3.   Accommodation:

• Choose the right spot
  First-time campers: If you’ve never camped before, consider opting for a Holiday Park where you have access to electricity, shower blocks, camp kitchens, laundries and convenience stores. Holiday Parks (such as Brisbane Holiday Village) also offer a range of facilities and activities for the whole family and are a great way to ease kids into the idea of ‘roughing it’.
  Camping should be simple and straightforward, and the cost of camping reflects this. Take the time to find economical campgrounds or plan to travel outside of school holidays and public holidays, as this will save you a substantial amount of money in caravan park fees as many campsites will have a peak and off-peak season with different pricing.

• Arrive at your campsite in daylight
  This makes setting up much easier and allows you to get your bearings. Locate the toilets if there are any and set out bedding before dark.

4.   Food

• Pack extra food and plenty of water
  A spare day’s food and drinking water is important in an emergency, especially on overnight hikes or in remote areas.
• Keep meals simple but yummy
  Pre-made meals are easy to heat up on a stove, and sausages and veggies or bacon and eggs are easily cooked on a barbie. Aim for few ingredients and short preparation time. Don’t forget tea and coffee and definitely don’t forget the chocolate.

5.   General

• Keep your campsite tidy
  Store your food in a dry bag or sealed container, and keep rubbish away from where you sleep. Avoid attracting unwanted insect or animal guests.
• Pack some creature comforts
  After a few weekend trips, you will build up your list of essentials. Some of them may seem like luxuries but they will make the experience ten times easier.
  Bring:
  • a hammer or small mallet to push tent pegs in and a doormat for the tent entrance;
  • a dustpan and broom to sweep away sand and dirt;
  • a ground sheet to lay under your tent;
  • a pump for airbeds;
  • individual torches for everyone including kids (we recommend head torches to keep your hands free for board games)

Happy Camping!
– The Brisbane Holiday Village Team

Caravan Holiday – One of the best decisions you’ll ever make!

If you’re new to the caravan and camping game, buying of hiring a caravan to explore Australia is an exciting time of freedom, fun, and the thrill of a new experience!

Not quite sold on the idea?

That’s ok – we’ll fix you nay-sayers soon! Check out some of the great benefits of going on a caravan holiday adventure:

• You don’t have to settle into a hotel room and then pack up and repeat from place to place

  • The most annoying part of travelling is probably unpacking and packing every few days. Once you finally start feeling settled in your accommodation, before you know it you will be repacking your life into your bags and continuing your trip. The beauty of a caravan is that you don’t need to worry about constantly do this, as your accommodation travels with you and you will feel settled for the whole duration of your trip.

• Closer to nature

  • You have access to views on your doorstep rather than a window from afar! You can step straight from your front door into nature, so you will spend the majority of your time soaking up the fresh air and enjoying the facilities on offer!

• It’s more social – you meet people!

  • Making friends is easier when you feel a part of a community in a caravan park. With stories and experiences to share, the amount of social interaction you experience will be vastly greater than in a hotel! You also still have the option to remove yourself from all the commotion when you need some solitude.  At Brisbane Holiday Village, we offer a large variety of tropical resort-style facilities including a lagoon pool, kiddies splash pool (with water fountains), on-site restaurant, mini-golf, tennis court, multi-purpose sports field and more – to keep you occupied and social – for as long as you want!
  • While we can’t guarantee that all caravan holiday enthusiasts are nice and sociable, we can assure you that a huge percentage of people you meet in the majority of Holiday Resorts and Caravan Parks are just that. Caravanning attracts mostly sociable and helpful people, ready to help you in troubles. Among the “caravanners” you can find many friends. You can also score some handy recommendations and tips along your trip.

• It’s affordable

  • Caravan holiday sites are much more affordable than hotel rooms every night, especially if you have invested in your own caravan. For example, our powered caravan sites at Brisbane Holiday Village start from only $51 per night.
  • Not only is the cost of a camping space much more reasonable than a hotel room, you also have everything you need at your disposal. You can even stock up on groceries and cook your own meals, saving a fortune on restaurant bills.

• Do something different

  • Rather than do the same annual holiday of catching a plane and staying in a hotel, do something different and hire a caravan and experience something new – you won’t regret it!

• A sense of independence

  • Call it as you want – spontaneity, freedom, independence. Most important, however, is that at any time you can take the motorhome, or hook the caravan up to the car and go wherever you want. You can change your plans and nothing would happen if, instead of in Rome, you suddenly find yourself in Saint-Tropez. You are not dependent on hotel reservations, the rigid tour programs, etc.
  • Caravanning is the perfect option for independent people, for restless spirits, who value freedom over comfort. Though let’s not exaggerate – the modern camping vehicles allow you to combine the hotel’s or house’s convenience with an extraordinary mobility!

•  It’s environmentally friendly
  • Since you spend most of your time outdoors, utilising the amazing facilities on offer, or getting back to basics with books and board games, you don’t drain energy using electrical appliances!
  • Garbage and recycling areas are available for you at most environmentally aware / sustainable holiday parks (like Brisbane Holiday Village) to easily dispose of waste in a sustainable way.

• It brings you and your travel companions closer

  • There’s nothing like spending 24/7 with your friends or family to help build your relationships. You learn how to be patient and accepting of each other’s annoying habits. You also learn so much more about them. Especially when you’re in a confined space and don’t have the distractions of TV, you fall into a pattern of deep and meaningful conversations and silly games that pass the time but provide plenty of entertainment.

When you stay at Brisbane Holiday Village you will see a big difference from other parks.

You will enjoy and appreciate the superior quality and cleanliness of our amenities, BBQ and entertainment area, facilities and cabins.

You will appreciate our staff who go the extra mile to give you the very best of service. Some of the many reasons we are the best caravan park in Brisbane!

Book with Brisbane Holiday Village

We are friendly community and love welcoming all new and previous guests to enjoy their holiday here!

We have a variety of Holiday Cabins and caravan sites available (including powered sites, ensuite sites and XL ensuite sites) as well as powered and unpowered camping grounds.

Our village offers a huge variety of tropical resort-style facilities including FREE WIFI, a lagoon pool, kiddies splash pool (with water fountains), on-site restaurant, mini-golf, tennis court, multi-purpose sports field, and free parking.

We are conveniently located – a short 15 minute drive from Brisbane CBD, 20 minutes drive from iconic Gold Coast theme parks and 40 minutes drive from the scenic Sunshine Coast!

Grab a great holiday deal by booking directly with us OR give our friendly reception staff a call on (07) 3341 6133.

Take the leap and book your Caravan Holiday at Brisbane’s Best Holiday Park!

– The BHV Team

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Caravanning can be a super exciting time – offering freedom, fun, and the thrill of a new experience! BUT there are a number of pitfalls that can spoil the fun of your first family journey.

While you’re sure to have done your research on most aspects of the caravanning experience, there will always be an oversight or two.

Follow these 7 tips for caravanning for beginners to ensure that your first journey is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible!

1.   Get Your Equipment Sorted

Caravanning for beginners isn’t cheap, but there is a list of essentials you really must have before you set off.

You’ll need:

• a towing aid
• caravan jack
• sway control equipment
• towing mirrors
• a fire extinguisher
• engine oils and fluids
• wheel blocks
• other gear depending on your caravan.

2.   Consider Safety Hazards Before You Leave

Everyone knows to check all lights and tyre inflation levels before setting off, but there are other safety checks that can be made. Before you start your journey, always ensure:

• The jockey wheel is secure
• Your caravan steps are raised
• The towing aid is correctly fitted
• Check that everything inside your caravan is secured down (so that it doesn’t roll around) 
• Check the doors and windows are locked

3.   Don’t Overdo It

Nobody wants to be the motorist who holds up traffic, but it’s best to err on the side of caution when you’re getting started. Use slow vehicle turnouts and allow motorists to pass you when safe. Your focus should always be on safe towing rather than speed!

Driving at highway speeds while towing a caravan can also lead to very poor fuel consumption, especially in windy conditions.

4.   Start at the Crack of Dawn

You’ll feel more confident in the early stages of your first caravan adventure if you hit the road early. The traffic will be much lighter, and you’ll be able to get a feel for the handling of your caravan without having to navigate roads full of motorists.

5.   Make the Most of the Space You Have

If you’re caravanning with your young family, it’s hard to know how you’ll all take to the confined living areas. Be mindful of everyone’s personal space, try to be as patient as you can and spend as much time outdoors as possible to start with, until you get used to each other!

Caravanning for beginners can be stressful enough without family arguments putting a dampener on your trip.

6.   Prepare a Routine for Setting Up

There’s a lot to do when you arrive at your overnight stop, and time is not always on your side. Practising beforehand can help to streamline your setup routine and give you extra leisure time. Depending on your van, you’ll need to unhitch your caravan and move your vehicle, level the caravan, drop the corner steadies, set up gas and water and connect the electricity. You don’t want to be doing all of this for the first time in the dark.

7.   Work as a Team When Parking

There aren’t that many opportunities to practice reverse-parking your caravan, and it can be daunting the first time you make an attempt.

You’ll likely have an audience when you arrive at your overnight stop – so make sure you choose the shortest possible path for reversing. Use your mirrors, take it slowly and communicate clearly with your partner as you bring your van into park.

Book a Stopover at Brisbane Holiday Village

Part of the appeal of caravanning for beginners is getting to visit great holiday parks and tourist attractions. We recommend starting your caravanning experience at a Holiday Park – and the best one we know is our own!

Brisbane Holiday Village offers a friendly community to caravanning newbies! We love welcoming guests of all camping, and caravanning skilling levels to enjoy their holiday here!

We have a variety of Holiday Cabins and caravan sites available (including powered sites, ensuite sites and XL ensuite sites) as well as powered and unpowered camping grounds.

Our village offers a huge variety of tropical resort-style facilities including FREE WIFI, a lagoon pool, kiddies splash pool (with water fountains), on-site restaurant, mini-golf, tennis court, multi-purpose sports field, and free parking.

We are conveniently located – a short 15 minute drive from Brisbane CBD, 20 minutes drive from iconic Gold Coast theme parks and 40 minutes drive from the scenic Sunshine Coast!

Grab a great holiday deal by booking directly with us OR give our friendly reception staff a call on (07) 3341 6133.

Take the leap and book your Caravan Holiday at Brisbane’s Best Holiday Park!

– The BHV Team

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Winter in Queensland is one of the most beautiful times of year. Chilly mornings shouldn’t stop you from planning a getaway in the great outdoors this winter.

We think our camping sites are a great option for holidaymakers looking to enjoy winter in Queensland. Consider these 5 benefits of cold-weather camping at Brisbane Holiday Village when planning your mid-year holiday.

It’s Just as Comfortable as Summer Camping with the Right Preparation

You can be just as cozy camping in winter provided you do your research on clothing and bedding beforehand. You’ll rarely see the overnight temperature in Brisbane drop below 10 degrees in the winter months, so use that as a guide when preparing sleeping arrangements.

Consider the 3 layer clothing rule for camping in winter – wear a close-fitting base layer for warmth and moisture control, a mid-layer for insulation and an outer layer for weather protection. That should be more than enough to protect your from the chill.

You Can Take Advantage of Australia’s Driest Months

Brisbane is known for generally dry and mild conditions in winter, making it ideal for comfortable camping trips. We aren’t subjected to the unpredictable storms and downpours that are often a feature of Brisbane summers, so you can plan your trip safely according to long-term forecasts.

The dry weather is also helpful when it comes to planning day-trips during your Brisbane Holiday Village stay. The natural beauty of Queensland’s beaches and national parks are arguably at their peak in the middle of the year.

There Are Less Insects to Deal With

Mozzie bites and persistent flies can be a blight on your summer camping adventures, but most creepy crawlies will leave you alone during winter. Brisbane’s subtropical climate is far milder during winter, allowing you enjoy your time outdoors without constantly reaching for the bug spray.

Roughing It, with a Few Creature Comforts

If you’re travelling with a young family or those new to camping, it is nice to have the added comfort of Brisbane Holiday Village’s amenities and resort facilities. We offer coin-operated laundries and plentiful amenity blocks for all visitors, in addition to 18-hole mini golf, playgrounds, tennis court, bike track, a multi-purpose sports field and much more to keep the young ones occupied.

Millions of Stars to Enjoy

The generally clear weather and earlier sunsets makes winter a great time for family stargazing. Many stars are brighter and easier to discern in winter, so you can use your family getaway at Brisbane Holiday Village to introduce the major constellations to your children.

Celebrate Winter in Queensland at Brisbane Holiday Village

Our winter accommodation options at Brisbane Holiday Village are not limited to our camping sites. We offer five different styles of holiday cabins to suit all budgets, in addition to a range of caravan and powered camping sites for mobile travellers. To stay up to date on our specials with winter approaching, don’t forget to sign up to our newsletter on the Brisbane Holiday Village homepage.

For more information about our Brisbane accommodation options or to make a booking, give our team a call on 61 7 3341 6133 or contact us online.

Your holiday time is precious and passes far too soon. Making the right accommodation choice will set you up for a relaxing and stress-free break from your everyday life.

Travellers looking to save a few dollars often choose Airbnb. While you can have a positive experience using the online service, there is always a risk that your plans can go badly wrong through no fault of your own.

Here are five reasons why holiday parks outweigh Airbnb for short or long term brisbane accommodation needs:

Facilities to entertain and relax

Most holiday parks usually offer a range of facilities that can accommodate both the adults and the kids. Playgrounds, tennis courts, water parks, 18 hole mini golf and barbeque areas are just some of the amenities that guests at holiday parks can expect to find during their stay.

While you can see photographs and read reviews on your chosen Airbnb accommodation, there is no guarantee that everything will be exactly as it appears. Having a range of facilities to entertain the kids ensures that there is no time for boredom.

Sense of Community

Many travellers enjoy the freedom to be alone that Airbnb might offer, but this isolation can be a problem in certain circumstances. Finding like-minded travellers and sharing experiences is one of the joys of staying at holiday parks whilst travelling to new and uncharted territories.

You Can Communicate with a Dedicated Customer Service Team

One of Airbnb’s disadvantages is inflexibility when it comes to making last minute changes. If your arrival time or something similar has to be changed at the last minute, there is no guarantee your Airbnb owner will be amenable to your situation.

Holiday parks deal with a high volume of customers every day, and are used to finding a solution to a range of issues. Holiday parks have on-site customer service options to deal with these unforeseen circumstances, which can offer you a bit of extra peace of mind.   

You can rely on guaranteed, on-site assistance.

With a dedicated maintenance and housekeeping team, you can expect a high standard of cleanliness, and for all appliances and features to be fully functional. With both linen and towel services provided, there is no need to do the washing yourself, when you can get it professionally done.

Long Term Accommodation Is Often Available

Whether you’re looking for short-term accommodation or an extended holiday, most holiday parks offer long term caravan parks brisbane options.  This is perfect for when you are looking for a home away from home.  Guests to holiday parks have access to a range of facilities and 24/7 professional service ensuring that your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

To inquire about accommodation, give us a call today on 61 7 3341 6133, or email us at sales@brisbaneholidayvillage.com.au.