Our first child-free road trip was years ago in our twenties—a van adventure to Ibiza for some partying. We've since explored India, New York, Spain, Berlin, London, Venice, and more. But parenthood in 2010 changed everything. Far from halting our travels, we took our first child on a flight at just 5 months old. Drawing from years of real-world family adventures across continents, here are our 10 expert tips for traveling with children stress-free.
Costa Rica, suspension bridges, February 2017
Some prefer adults-only escapes, leaving kids with grandparents for uninterrupted relaxation—and that's valid. I cherish my own childhood holidays with mine at the countryside or seaside, and my daughters equally adore road trips with us in Norway or stays with grandparents. But family travel creates priceless shared moments. It breaks the daily grind, slows us down, and fosters connection. Memories start forming around age 3, but travel builds bonds today. My eldest once noted seeing me only evenings during school weeks. On trips, I ditch work, chores (except hand-washing laundry!), and schedules to match their pace and savor the now.
India, Rajasthan, February 2016, cooking chapatis
Worried about long-haul cries, aisle antics, or seat-kicking? Yearning for sunny family getaways with a mojito in hand? Rest assured: minor disruptions happen, like your child out-noisying the neighbor's novel or announcing a bathroom break mid-landing prep. Spills? Inevitable (see tip #7). Flights are brief compared to vacation joy—10-15 hours tops. Endure, and paradise awaits. Remember our Miami-London gastro saga with a 7-year-old? We survived.
Hveragerdi, fumaroles, Iceland, May 2012
New to far-flung trips? Start short: Portugal or Italy's sun under 3 hours from Paris; Iceland or Marrakech under 4. Pack books, games; check for in-flight tablets (scarce on low-cost/short routes). Prioritize accommodations with outdoor access—gardens, playgrounds—over high-rise apartments. Mix hotels, campsites, vans, or Airbnbs as needed.
Bangkok, February 2015, feeding the fish at the edge of the klongs under the watchful eye of our Airbnb host
Book wisely: Balance low-cost savings against remote airports' extra time/cost. Opt for night flights to destinations, mindful of arrival times. Direct vs. stopover? We've done both. Directs ease transfers but drag if sleep evades; stopovers (often cheaper) offer breaks but demand buffer time—avoid our 1-hour US dash where luggage lagged 3 days!
Narlai, Rajasthan India, sunset walk, February 2016
Prep formalities: Online check-in, family security lanes. Arrive early—kids always need last-minute pit stops. Airports often have play areas to tire them out pre-flight. Board last; settle in terminals first. Vacation starts at home's doorstep—relax!
Monument Valley, USA, blood ties, July 2016
Ease anxiety: Chat about adventures ahead—new countries, animals, sights. Sketch airports/planes, visit local airfields. Knowledge breeds confidence.
Rajasthan, India, making dhurries, February 2016
Seat savvy: Bassinets for <10kg babies; lap for <2s (discounts); aisle for easy potty runs post-2s. Chew gum/candy for ears; comfy clothes + spare outfit. Entertainment: In-flight tablets (pack headphones), activity books, markers, card games. Kids 5+? Travel journals with drawings/stickers.
Bardenas Desert, Spain, October 2017
Tailor to trip: Ditch bulk for clubs; check Airbnb loans. Lightweight strollers like Babyzen Yoyo fit carry-ons. Road trips? Baby carrier + starter stock—locals manage (Thailand's 7-Elevens have diapers/jars/milk). Pharmacy basics: Paracetamol, repellent, antispasmodic, probiotics, sunscreen, antiseptic. Doctors abound worldwide.
Bangkok, Wat Arun, February 2015
New foods thrill: Rice fans adore Bangkok Pad Thai or Costa Rican Gallo Pinto. They adapt without starving—growth through discovery! Water: Iceland taps safe (sulfur-scented); elsewhere, bottled only, skip ice to dodge traveler's tummy.
Elmley Nature Reserve, Kent, UK, October 2017
Blend interests: Skip niche museums for tots; follow city hikes or jungle treks with pool/beach wind-downs. No pool? Neighboring hotel lunch often grants access.
Corsica, Arone beach, June 2014
Safe travels!
