Travelling with kids can feel like a juggling act – lots of moving parts and a bit of chaos. And trust me, I know. We’ve been travelling with our kids since they were babes in arms (now teens, which brings its own challenges – you can read more about travelling with teens here).
And not just short trips, either. We’re talking long-haul holidays or adventures that sometimes feel like mission impossible. Sure, there have been struggles along the way, but somehow we always make it home in one piece – and still talking! My husband Sukh and I often pat ourselves on the back for topping the last trip with even more unforgettable memories. And yes, we’re one of those families that films everything!
With a little planning and a pinch of patience, family trips can be amazing. Here’s how to make family travel easy and enjoyable for everyone – whether it’s packing tips, finding kid-friendly destinations or planning activities that’ll make your family adventure a blast.
Packing Tips: What to Bring and What to Leave
Make a Packing List Together
Start by creating a packing list with your kids. It’s not just about staying organised – it’s a fun way to get them excited for the trip. Let them pick a few favourite toys, books or games to bring along. When they’re involved, it helps them feel more in control of the journey and reduces any pre-trip anxiety. Plus, it’s a great way to build up their excitement for what’s ahead!
Keep It Light
When packing for the kids – whether it’s a weekend away or a two-week trip – the key is to pack smart. Choose clothes that can be easily washed and reworn, so you don’t overpack. Stick to versatile items that can be mixed and matched. Think T-shirts, comfy bottoms and layers for varying weather. A few pairs of snug PJs are a must too. You don’t need an entire wardrobe, just enough to keep everyone comfortable and with some room for souvenirs.
Don’t Forget the Snacks
Pack snacks that won’t make a mess in your bag, like cereal bars, dried fruit and nuts. They’re easy to store and keep your bag crumb-free. Hungry kids can get cranky quickly, so having tasty, portable options on hand means you can avoid the overpriced airport snacks and keep everyone’s energy up without the stress of last-minute hunting for food.
Create a Family Entertainment Kit
Long car rides or flights can get boring fast. Pack an entertainment kit with colouring books, puzzles and travel games to keep everyone entertained. If the kids have tablets, load them up with their favourite movies and games before you leave. And don’t forget the headphones! A few small, quiet toys or fidget items can also help keep little ones entertained without causing too much noise.
Pack a Small First-Aid Kit
Accidents happen, especially with kids. Bring a small first-aid kit with essentials like plasters, antiseptic wipes and any necessary medications. It’s a simple precaution that’ll give you peace of mind and save you from scrambling to find a pharmacy in a new place. You’ll be prepared for everything from scraped knees to upset tummies!
Always Have Spare Clothes to Hand
It’s always wise to keep a spare set of clothes handy when travelling with kids. You never know when an unexpected spill or sick moment will happen -trust me, I’ve been there! On our Florida road trip, Shivam was three and got sick in the car on the way from Miami to Orlando. The car seat and his clothes were covered! Luckily, I always keep a spare outfit, wipes and a refillable water bottle within easy reach. It made all the difference and saved us from any major hassle. Having a backup set of clothes can be a real lifesaver. Thank me later.
Choose Kid-Friendly Destinations
Research Before You Go
Not every destination is built for little feet, so it’s worth doing a bit of homework. Look for places with family-friendly attractions that keep everyone entertained. Zoos, aquariums and amusement parks are always popular choices (because who doesn’t love a day out with animals or thrilling rides?). And let’s not forget the value of a city with plenty of green spaces for picnics and a good old game of frisbee. After all, even the most exciting attractions can’t beat the joy of a spontaneous game in the park.
Look for All-Inclusive Options
All-inclusive resorts can be a total game-changer when travelling with kids. Forget about stressing over meal planning or where the next snack is coming from – everything is sorted for you. Plus, many of these places offer kid-friendly activities that keep the little ones happy and entertained. Think of places like the Dreams Riviera Cancun in Mexico, where the beach is on your doorstep, the kids’ club is just a stone’s throw away and you don’t have to lift a finger. Total bliss.
Consider Nearby Attractions
When booking your destination, it’s worth considering what’s nearby. If you’re heading to a city, check out what else is around – whether it’s theme parks, museums or a stunning natural wonder just a short drive away. The more options, the merrier! That way, if one plan falls through (like when the weather isn’t quite up to par), you’ve got backup.
Take Advantage of Family Packages
Don’t miss out on family packages that can save you a bit of cash – after all, we know how quickly it adds up when you’re travelling with kids. Many hotels and attractions offer deals that include meals or activities for the little ones. And always, always ask about family discounts when you book – because every penny saved can go towards an extra ice cream or two!
Activities That Keep Everyone Happy
Plan Some Downtime
It’s tempting to jam-pack every minute with activities, but trust me, kids need a bit of downtime to recharge. Schedule some quiet time back at the hotel or a laid-back afternoon at a park. You’ll thank yourself later when everyone’s not overtired, grumpy, or constantly asking “Are we there yet?”
Get Them Involved in Planning
Let your kids have a say in the itinerary! If they’re excited about something, whether it’s a beach day, a trip to a museum or a ride on a rollercoaster, they’ll be more engaged. Their involvement not only keeps them excited, but it also helps them feel like they’re part of the adventure.
Embrace Flexibility
Let’s be real – things won’t always go according to plan when you’re travelling with kids. There will be delays, tantrums and unplanned pitstops. But some of the best memories come from those spontaneous moments. So, roll with it, and embrace the unexpected. After all, a bit of flexibility can turn a potential disaster into an unforgettable adventure.
Use Kid-Friendly Apps
Tech can be your friend while travelling, but balance is key. Download apps for learning, puzzles and entertainment to keep the kids happy. Just remember to limit screen time – too much tech can make everyone feel a bit disconnected. Encourage breaks to explore, chat or play games together. A bit of family bonding goes a long way in making your trip memorable.
Create a Family Adventure Journal
Get your kids involved by encouraging them to document the trip. Let them draw pictures, write about their favourite moments, or collect tickets and souvenirs. Not only will it keep them busy, but it’ll also create a lovely keepsake to look back on. Trust me, years later, you’ll love flipping through those memories together.
Travel Safety: Keeping Everyone Secure
Discuss Safety Rules
Before you head off, have a little family safety talk. Make sure everyone knows the drill – staying close in busy places, what to do if they get lost or how to spot an adult if they need help. Remind them of the rules throughout the trip. It might feel a bit ‘parental,’ but trust me, it can save a lot of stress later on.
Use ID Wristbands
For younger kids, consider using wristbands with your contact information. These stylish, kid-friendly wristbands can give you peace of mind if they wander off in a crowded place. Plus, they’re a lot less stressful than having to play detective when your child suddenly vanishes in a sea of people.
Keep Important Documents Handy
Always keep a copy of key documents – passports, insurance details, and emergency contacts – close but secure. You don’t want to be scrambling to find your info if something goes wrong. Keeping them in an easily accessible spot means you can quickly take care of things, leaving more time for fun.
Making the Journey Fun
Travel Games Galore
Be ready to play the classic travel games! I Spy, the Alphabet Game or 20 Questions – these will keep everyone entertained and stop the “Are we there yet?” chorus. A little friendly competition never hurt anyone, and they’re the perfect way to pass the time on long journeys.
Capture the Moments
Don’t forget your camera (or your phone)! Snap candid shots of your kids having a blast – those little moments of joy are worth capturing. When you get home, create a family travel album and have the kids pick their favourite photos. It’s a fun way to relive the trip and keeps the memories alive for years to come.
Celebrate Small Wins
Every little achievement counts. Whether it’s making it through a long flight without a meltdown, discovering a new favourite snack or even just handling breakfast at the hotel without any drama – praise them! Celebrating these small wins not only keeps the mood positive but also helps everyone stay calm and cheerful throughout the trip. Plus, it builds excitement for the next adventure.
Wrapping Up Your Family Adventure
Travelling with kids doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right plan, you can create an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Remember to pack wisely, choose destinations that offer a bit of everything and keep the fun flowing throughout the journey.
And don’t forget to check out my posts on how to plan your epic Florida road trip and my review of the Dream’s Riviera Cancun for family-friendly travel inspiration. With these tips in hand, you’re all set for an amazing family adventure. Now get out there and explore!
Ready To Book Your Next Family Holiday? These Are My Favourite Travel Tools…
FLIGHTS: Skyscanner
ACCOMMODATION: Booking.Com
CAR RENTAL: Discover Cars
ACTIVITIES: Get Your Guide
eSIM: Airalo
TRAVEL INSURANCE: TravelSupermarket
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I think will be valuable to you. Thank you for supporting my blog!
