Rain on a car holiday can feel like a disaster, especially when the plan was a day on the beach. The children are restless, the windscreen is streaked, and everyone is wondering what to do. But a wet day does not have to be a wasted one. With a little preparation, it can even turn out to be the day you remember most fondly. The trick is to expect it and not to fight it.
Start by having a second plan, ideally before you leave home. Look for places that work well in any weather: a museum, an indoor swimming pool, a covered market, a library or a cosy café. Save a couple of ideas on a scrap of paper so that you are not searching in a panic when the clouds roll in. Choose somewhere close, so that you do not spend the whole day in the car. Remember that the drive itself may take longer in the rain, so allow for that.
Keeping everyone dry and cheerful
Pack for the weather. Waterproof jackets, spare socks and a towel in the boot make a huge difference, and a dry bag keeps wet things away from dry ones. A flask of something hot is a small luxury on a grey day. Bring a change of clothes for the children, because puddles are irresistible. If everyone has the right kit, the weather becomes part of the fun rather than a nuisance.
Take extra care on the road when it rains heavily. Visibility can drop quickly, and the surface may be slippery, so leave yourself plenty of time and do not rush. If the rain is so heavy that you cannot see properly, find somewhere safe to wait until it eases. Keep the windows clear inside as well, since damp coats quickly mist up the glass.
Give the day a slower rhythm. Read a book, play cards, or watch the rain from a sheltered spot with a hot drink. Children often enjoy a short walk in waterproofs, splashing through puddles and looking at snails. When you come back, dry off, change and enjoy a simple meal together. A wet day can bring a family closer, and it often produces the funniest stories of the whole holiday.
