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MNHQ

Win a copy of Kate Wickers new book Shape of a Boy

106 replies

BexMumsnet · 15/02/2022 13:49

Hi All,

We have an exciting giveaway for you - 50 FREE hardback copies of Kate Wickers new book Shape of a Boy. If you’ve ever needed a laugh-out-loud travel memoir, by the mother of three boys, then this book is for you!

Kate shares the life lessons learnt on her family’s travels, from overcoming disappointment in Thailand to saying sorry in Japan, discovering perseverance in Borneo and learning about conservation in Malaysia. Kate’s vivid evocation of the highs and lows of family time make you belly-laugh and bring a lump to your throat.

Shape of a Boy captures the essence of being a parent in the thick of it and learning on the hoof. Inspirational for anyone who has travelled with a baby, toddler or teen, it is a life-affirming read for every wannabe-traveller.

While Kate's mantra is ‘have kids, will travel’, we want to hear what your best travel tips (or travel mantras) are when you travel with or without kids! The first 50 people to comment below will receive a free copy of Kate Wickers new book, Shape of a Boy.

We can't wait to read your posts!

MNHQ

Win a copy of Kate Wickers new book Shape of a Boy
Win a copy of Kate Wickers new book Shape of a Boy
OP posts:
shumway · 15/02/2022 14:38

Be flexible and don't over-plan.

FuggyPidding · 15/02/2022 14:27

Research, research, research!!
Especially where to stay & the type of accommodation. Is it child friendly? Near to amenities? Are the sleeping arrangements suitable? (We've fallen foul of the latter before!!)

We always encourage the children to pack their own things but make sure we check it (again, we've learnt from previous experience!!)

Lots of snacks & activities for the journey.

AudTheDeepMinded · 15/02/2022 14:24

I have three boys. The furthest we have attempted with them so far is a trip to Denmark. The most adventurous was a trip to Shetland which involved a coach, a plane, a train and an overnight ferry and a hire car. My top tips are: find out what car seats the hire company will provide and get to grips with the fitting instructions beforehand! Also, on long journeys, freeze drinks for the kids. Keeps them cool and stops them necking a whole bottle in five minutes and necessitating three consecutive pee stops (on a bloody motorway). That's all folks!

AnchorWHAT · 15/02/2022 14:20

Oh this sounds so good, as a mum of two boys who have travelled with us to over 22 countries i think this would give me some fun to read.
Travel tips for us are to put the worries to one side but stay safe, don't try and shelter the kids too much, you are travelling for a reason… to see life from other cultures and veiw points. Plan well with time for sightseeing as well as downtime and finally book the nicest hotel you can afford the last night of your travels, blissful to relax and get clean for the trip home! This however may have something to do with the fact that lots of our trips were a bit off the tourist routes as DH is a wildlife photographer 😁

Turnitupto11 · 15/02/2022 14:18

So my best tips are:

Find out as much as you can about the area you're travelling to, I tend to try and buy a book or Google the area for places to visit. I also get a phrase book so that I can learn the language a little. Find out where the best restaurants are, usually I look on TripAdvisor.

I roll all my clothes up because I find I can fit more in my case and they don't seem to crease. Tbh mainly I only take a rucksack if possible, I don't really visit places where formal clothing is required.

Turnitupto11 · 15/02/2022 14:15

Ooh this sounds perfect, I'd love a copy. I'm an avid reader, will read all sorts.

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