School holidays are a time for family bonding, relaxation, and, of course, fun! However, finding engaging outdoor kids school holiday activities can sometimes feel challenging. With screen time often becoming the go-to entertainment, it’s important to balance digital activities with real-world experiences that keep your children entertained, engaged, and active. In this article, we’ll share practical tips and family-friendly holiday ideas to help you create memorable adventures. Plus, with Tottie's best travel bags for parents, staying organised and keeping all your essentials in check while on the go has never been easier!


Encourage Kids to Unplug and Get Creative

It’s so easy for kids to spend hours in front of screens, whether it’s watching TV, playing video games, or scrolling through social media. However, the school holidays are the perfect time to introduce activities that encourage their imagination. Unplugging during this time can do wonders for your child’s creativity, mental health, and social skills. Try a digital detox with outdoor activities for kids like scavenger hunts, nature walks, or even something as simple as building a fort in the living room. These activities will not only keep your kids entertained but also help them develop creativity, improve social skills, and get some fresh air!


Plan Fun Outdoor Adventures to Get Moving

Getting outdoors is one of the best ways to spend time during the holidays. Here are some outdoor activities for kids that will keep them entertained and active:

Backyard Adventure Days

Set up mini sports tournaments, create obstacle courses, or have a camping night right in your backyard. These activities are not only fun but also affordable—perfect for school holiday fun on a budget.

Exploring Local Nature Trails

Visit nearby parks, bushwalking trails, or beaches. Pack a Tottie's best travel backpack with water bottles, snacks, and a first-aid kit for your day out in nature. The spacious compartments and easy-to-access pockets will keep you organised while you explore.

Community Events & Festivals

Check out local events, festivals, or fairs. These family-friendly outings allow your kids to socialise, interact, and have fun without the need for screens.

DIY Outdoor Art & Science

Set up creative stations for rock painting, kite-making, or even simple science experiments like making a baking soda volcano. These hands-on activities keep your kids learning while having fun outdoors. Don’t forget to pack a Tottie backpack with snacks, sunscreen, and other essentials for an easy day out!

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Take a Family Day Trip: How to Pack Smart and Stay Organised

Planning a family-friendly holiday requires a little organisation, especially when you’re on the go. Whether it’s a road trip to a nearby town or a zoo adventure, packing efficiently is key to a stress-free outing. Tottie’s best travel bags for parents offer all the features you need—durable, spacious, and easy to carry. You can pack everything from snacks to water bottles, and the various compartments help keep everything organised.

When packing for a day trip, here are a few essentials you shouldn’t forget:

  • Water bottles: Keep your kids hydrated during outdoor activities.

  • Snacks: Healthy, portable snacks like fruit and crackers to keep them fueled throughout the day.

  • Entertainment: A small toy, activity book, or handheld game can be a lifesaver on long car rides.


Make the Most of Free and Budget-Friendly Holiday Activities

You don’t have to break the bank to keep your kids entertained during the school holidays. Here are some affordable and fun activities for kids that will keep them engaged and entertained without spending much:

Library & Bookstore Treasure Hunts

Encourage a love of reading by setting up a scavenger hunt at your local library or bookstore. Create clues based on your child’s favorite books and characters.

DIY Backyard Movie Nights

Set up an outdoor cinema with blankets and cushions, and watch family-friendly movies under the stars. Pack snacks like popcorn and fruit in a Tottie's tote bags in Australia for easy access during the movie.

Community Sports & Playgroups

Many local parks and recreation centers offer free sports programs or playgroups for kids. Check out your local community boards or Facebook groups for free events.


Plan a Family Outing: Tips for Easy, Stress-Free Adventures

For larger outings, like trips to the zoo, museums, or theme parks, you’ll want to pack efficiently to make sure you’ve got everything you need for a smooth experience. Tottie’s best nappy bags, travel bags, and backpacks offer the perfect solution for keeping everything in one place.

  • Zoo Visits: Keep your child engaged by teaching them about animals and encouraging questions. Pack snacks, drinks, and a few small toys in a Tottie travel bag.

  • Museums: Encourage curiosity with simple activities, like drawing what they see, and ensure you’ve got everything packed, from hand sanitiser to extra clothes, in your Tottie bag.

  • Theme Parks: Be ready for anything with a travel bag that has multiple compartments for easy organisation. Pack sunscreen, tickets, and all those fun souvenirs you’ll pick up along the way.


What to Pack for Your School Holiday Adventures

Packing for a day out with kids can be a challenge, but with the right bag, it doesn’t have to be. When choosing a bag for your family outings, make sure it has plenty of compartments for easy access to snacks, drinks, toys, and other essentials. Tottie’s best travel bags for parents come with must-have features:

  • Durability: Tottie’s bags are designed to withstand the demands of parenthood.

  • Compartments: Multiple compartments help keep everything—from wipes to snacks—neatly organised and easily accessible.

  • Comfort: Padded straps and ergonomic designs ensure you can carry your bag comfortably for hours.


Quick Takeaways:

  • Balance screen time with outdoor activities to foster creativity and social interaction.

  • Outdoor activities for kids like scavenger hunts and nature walks provide educational and fun experiences.

  • Pack smart with Tottie’s bags to make family outings more organised and stress-free.

  • Budget-friendly ideas like backyard movie nights and community events are a great way to keep kids entertained without spending much.

Make the Most of School Holidays with Tottie

The school holidays are the perfect time to make memories with your kids. From fun outdoor adventures to budget-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of ways to keep everyone entertained. And with Tottie’s functional travel bags, you’ll stay organised and prepared for whatever the day brings. Ready to make this school holiday your best one yet? Shop Tottie’s stylish bags today!

 

What’s your go-to school holiday activity with the kids? Do you have a favourite family outing hack that makes things easier? Share your tips in the comments or tag us @tottie.shop on Instagram—we love seeing your family adventures!

FAQs: Kids' School Holiday Activities

How can I keep children engaged during school holidays?

Keeping kids engaged during the school holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming - it’s all about variety and balance. Plan a mix of outdoor adventures, like bushwalks, park visits, or backyard camping, with indoor activities such as cooking, arts and crafts, or DIY science experiments. Add in family outings to libraries, museums, or community events to spark curiosity and learning. To encourage independence, include quiet activities like reading, journaling, or puzzles, which give kids space to recharge. A simple trick is to let children help plan the week - this gives them ownership and excitement about what’s ahead. And when you’re heading out, staying organised makes a big difference - packing essentials in a parent-friendly bag like Tottie’s ensures you’re always ready for fun without the stress.

What are some low-cost school holiday activities?

School holidays don’t have to mean spending a fortune to keep kids entertained. Simple, low-cost activities often create the best memories. Try a picnic at your local park, explore nearby nature trails, or spend an afternoon at the library discovering new books. You can also host a DIY backyard movie night with blankets and popcorn, organise a treasure hunt around the house or garden, or get creative with arts and crafts using supplies you already have at home. Many communities also run free or low-cost events during the holidays—think local festivals, museum open days, or kids’ workshops at shopping centres. With a little planning, you can keep the fun rolling without stretching your budget.

How much screen time is too much during holidays?

For school-aged children, aim to keep recreational screen time under two hours a day, and less for younger kids. Set clear boundaries, schedule screen-free periods, and offer engaging alternatives like outdoor play, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, or simple science experiments. Leading by example and joining in these activities makes it easier for kids to enjoy fun, active, and creative experiences during the holidays.

What makes a good travel bag for school holiday outings?

A great travel bag should be durable, lightweight, and easy to carry, with adjustable, comfortable straps. Look for multiple compartments and easy-access pockets to keep snacks, drinks, toys, and essentials organised, and choose water-resistant materials for mess-free outings. Hands-free designs like backpacks or duffels make moving around easier, and a bag with personalisation options helps keep track of belongings. Tottie’s bags are designed with all these features in mind, making them perfect for busy parents on the go.

Can Tottie bags be used beyond the baby stage?

Absolutely! Tottie bags aren’t just for babies—they’re designed with smart compartments, durable materials, and comfortable straps that make them practical for toddlers and school-aged children too. Whether you’re packing snacks, toys, school supplies, or activity kits, these bags adapt as your child grows, helping parents stay organised on outings, trips, and everyday adventures.

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