Are you planning your first trip to Center Parcs? Whether you’re a Center Parcs newbie, or it’s been a while since your last trip, here are my top tips for Center Parcs first timers (including some things WE didn’t think of first time round!)
1. Download the app
Before you go, make sure you download the Center Parcs app (link to download on Center Parcs website) for quick access to handy info (use it to find your lodge, book activities, etc.)
2. Make a ‘wishlist’
Think about any “must-do” activities or any restaurants etc you want to try. If there’s anything you’d be genuinely disappointed to miss, make sure you book before they sell out!
3. Don’t over-book yourself
It’s tempting to get carried away and book loads of activities. But realistically you don’t want to fill up your schedule and be rushing from place to place.
Stick to a few key things you’re desperate to do, so then you can spend more time chilling in the lodge, or in the pool – without the pressure to be somewhere and watching the clock.
4. Make a rough plan before you go
If you’re going with other people, have a quick chat about what their “must-dos” are, AND what they want to do about meals… will you take turns cooking, or will you eat out together every day?
Read More: Our top ten meal-planning strategies for Center Parcs
5. Don’t get overwhelmed by packing
Try not to stress about packing TOO much! At the end of the day, there are shops on-site, there’s guest services to help out, and you can always leave the site if you need anything else.
If you don’t know where to start, take a look through our Ultimate Center Parcs Packing List and Bare Essentials Packing List for some great ideas of what you might need.
Read more: 6 Surprising items I’d pack again for Center Parcs
6. Always pack spare shoes
Take at least one spare pair of shoes – in case you get blisters, in case you get wet, etc… no-one wants to be stuck with wet, cold, sore feet!
7. Snacks. Always take snacks
Take snacks. Even if you’re planning on buying everything once you get there, or eating out for every meal, you’ll always be glad of a snack or two!
8. Label any pool toys
Label your kids’ pool toys and floats before you go! It’s impossible to keep an eye on your things all the time, and kids will often have similar life jackets or pool noodles so labelling makes it easier to keep track.
9. Make note of your booking number
Keep your booking reference number ready when you’re about to check in (you can write it down, but it should also be on the home screen of your Center Parcs app)
10. Expect queues when you arrive
There might be long queues to get into the site, especially if you arrive at a peak time – so be prepped with snacks and patience! The line usually moves quickly, and the check-in staff are lovely, so you’ll soon be on your way.
11. Make a note of where you parked
Either take a photo, screenshot your location on the map or write it down… it might sound silly but you probably won’t remember in 4 days’ time when you come to leave!
Read more: 5 Tips for a stress-free arrival day at Center Parcs
Want more help planning?
Take a look at our Center Parcs Planner, now available on Amazon! I designed it for our own family to use, but it’s been getting loads of love from other families too, who have loved it for planning their own trips and documenting their memories to remember once they’re home. Sometimes planning a trip is almost the most exciting part!
Amazon link*: Center Parcs Planner & Memory Journal
Read more: Our Center Parcs Planner – now available on Amazon!