Before we even had kids, Dani and I made a promise: travel would always be part of our family life. But as any parent knows, figuring out how to travel with kids isn’t always simple. There are logistics, meltdowns, and unexpected curveballs—but also unforgettable moments that make it all worth it.
So far, we’ve kept our promise. By age five, Remi has already traveled to four countries, visited 14 U.S. states, and made six trips to Australia to see family. Arlo has been right there with her, proving that even the youngest kids can be great travelers.
If you’re wondering how to travel with kids in a way that feels manageable and fun, these five strategies will help you plan smoother, happier family trips.
1. Plan Realistic Destinations and Timelines
One of the biggest travel mistakes people make—especially on international trips—is moving around too fast. Changing locations too frequently makes a trip feel like a never-ending series of travel days rather than a chance to actually experience a place. With kids, this exhaustion is amplified.
Our rule of thumb? Stay at least four nights in one place (unless it’s a stopover before a flight). This gives everyone time to settle in, adjust to new surroundings, and truly enjoy the destination rather than spending half the trip in transit.
The key to traveling with kids successfully (and even without kids) is to slow down.
2. Keep Daily Plans Realistic and Flexible
Once we choose a destination, I build out a rough daily plan in my trip spreadsheet. But instead of overloading the schedule, I set:
✅ One main activity per day (the priority event)
✅ Two to three bonus activities (optional add-ons if we have the time & energy)
This balance makes travel with kids more enjoyable. This way, we have structure but also plenty of flexibility. If naps run late, the weather changes, or we just need a slower morning, we can pivot without feeling like we’re “missing out.”
3. Prepare Your Kids for Travel
A smooth trip starts before you even leave home. If your kids have never flown before, make it a game!
Practice sitting on a pretend plane, putting their backpack under the seat in front of them, listening to “announcements” from a pilot, and ordering snacks. Older kids can play different roles, like being the flight crew or fellow passengers.
The more familiar the experience feels, the smoother it will go on travel day.
4. Adjust Your Own Expectations
Knowing how to travel with kids isn’t just about logistics—it’s about mindset. Kids will get tired, have meltdowns, and throw unexpected challenges your way.
Instead of feeling stressed out and blaming the trip for your child’s feelings, expect that things won’t always go perfectly. Most people around you don’t care if your toddler is crying in the security line (and the ones who do? Not your problem). Take a deep breath, offer comfort, and move on.
You know your kids best, and what moments might challenge them. Hope for the best, but if it doesn’t work, its ok. You’re still a good parent.
5. Stay Focused on Why You’re Traveling
Remind yourself of the purpose behind the trip—especially when things get hard.
✨ Is it for adventure?
✨ A cultural experience?
✨ To show your kids the world?
Focusing on the bigger picture makes it easier to roll with the challenges. If an activity isn’t working, pivot. If the kids are struggling, slow down. Travel isn’t about checking off a list—it’s about creating experiences that matter.
If a meltdown in a museum means no one is having fun, it’s okay to leave. But if your goal was to introduce your kids to a new culture, maybe powering through for just a little longer is worth it. Keeping that bigger picture in mind makes it easier to roll with the ups and downs.
Ready to Start Your Own Family Adventures?
Figuring out how to travel with kids can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right mindset and planning, it’s totally doable—and so, so worth it.
For more tips on family travel, trip planning, and embracing adventure with kids, check out our How to Live Bold page. And if you want regular updates with family travel tips, itinerary ideas, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to our newsletter!
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