Our Must-Buys for the Summer Break
While the long school holidays mean a summer of freedom, adventure and fun for kids, the top question on most parents’ minds is how to keep them entertained for all that time! With this is mind, we’ve compiled a list of must-buys for school holiday activities to keep the whole family happy.
Getting ready for your staycation
Staycations are a great way to get away with the family without having to spend the earth. Wherever you go on your staycation, this will always involve a bit of time in the car. But don't worry! We've rounded up everything you need to keep the kids comfortable and entertained on the journey so you can avoid the constant dreaded question, "Are we nearly there yet?".
Car stereo
A good stereo is an absolute must-have for family car journeys. The Pioneer SPH-DA230DAB Car Stereo with Apple CarPlay is one of the top fully integrated in-car entertainment systems. Featuring Apple Carplay/Android Auto, it allows you to sync your phone up to your dash. This means the children can watch their favourite film on the high definition 7-inch screen, you can drown out any backseat bickering with your favourite digital radio station, and you can all have a good old carpool karaoke session!
Dash cam
Another piece of in-car tech that will help to make your journey as quick and smooth as possible is a dash cam. The Nextbase 522GW Front & Rear Dash Cam Bundle offers two cameras in one and is one of the best dash cams on the market. With 1440p Quad HD recording, a 140-degree viewing angle and an inbuilt polarising filter to reduce windscreen glare, you’ll never miss a moment. The dash cam also comes with Alexa built-in, so you can use full Alexa commands to play music, check the weather and control your dash cam with ease.
Sunshades
Sunshades are an essential for car journeys in the hot summer weather as they will protect your little ones from getting burned and help keep the sun out of their eyes. They're also handy for naptime when it's bright outside but it's time for some R&R.
Roof box
The Thule Force XT XL Roof Box is a life-saver for family trips involving lots of extra gear such as bikes and camping equipment. It has a 500L load capacity which means you can fit in everything you need and the Power Click mount system makes light work of getting it up on the roof when it's full.
Car pet carriers
If you're taking your pooch away with you, the Halfords Mesh Headrest Dog Guard is good for keeping your furry friend safe on the trip and stopping him moving around and distracting you while you're driving.
Tyre care
Lastly, make sure that your tyres are fully-inflated and ready for the journey ahead with the Michelin High Power Tyre Inflator. It has an easy-to-read LED digital gauge and can inflate your tyres in around 4 minutes so you can quickly ensure your tyres are safe and good to go.
Camping toys
Once you've got to your destination, you'll need some fun games to keep everyone entertained. Everyone loves a bit of frisbee! See if you and the kids can set a new Guinness World Record with the Aerobie Pro Ring frisbee, which is currently in the Guinness Book of Records as the world's furthest thrown disc.
The Nerf Mega Howler takes a simple game of catch to a whole new level! It can travel over 90 metres and has 3 whistles so if you don't see it coming, you'll definitely hear it! The whole gang will want to get involved and see how far they can throw it.
If you're sleeping under the stars this holiday, check out our camping page for all of the equipment you need.
Cycling
Get all of the family outdoors and active this summer holiday with a family bike ride. Stay local and head to the park for a relaxing ride involving a cheeky stop at the ice-cream van or venture further afield on an exciting adventure and explore somewhere new together. Whether you have tiny tots or older kids, you can find a route that will inspire them.
Bike trailers
The Halfords Double Child Bike Trailer is perfect for taking the youngest members of your family out with you to enjoy the fresh air and take in the scenery. The trailer is easy to assemble and attach to your bike frame, and has a high visibility flag, safety harness, bug screen and rain shield to ensure your little ones are safe and comfortable.
Kids' bikes
If your child's just starting out on their cycling journey, a balance bike is great for developing your little one's motor skills, balance, coordination and spatial awareness, preparing them for riding a pedal bike. The Apollo Wizzer Balance Bike has a strong steel frame, pneumatic tyres for extra grip and adjustable handles for mini hands.
Looking for a first mountain bike for your child? The Carrera Blast Junior Mountain Bike makes a fantastic first off-road bike. Kids will love speeding up and down hills and splashing through streams on this super cool lightweight bike. It features 7 speed Shimano gears, front and rear V-brakes and 20" alloy wheels with all terrain tyres for great performance.
Cycle carriers
Transport the whole family's bikes easily and securely on the back of your car with the Halfords 4 Bike Tow Bar Cycle Carrier. It has strong adjustable arms, making it easy to load your bikes, and padded support to protect the frames of your bikes.
Free bike check
If any of your bikes need a quick look over after a winter locked away in the shed, pop into your local Halfords store for a Free Bike Health Check.