Family Travel Made Easy: Tips for Travelling with Kids Stress-Free
Holidays as a family are wonderful. We often spend most of the year looking forward to the moment we can switch off from the daily juggle and focus on quality time together.
But let’s be honest: the travelling bit can feel daunting. The logistics, meltdowns, the snacks…it’s a lot.
However, the good news is that with a bit of preparation and a few tried-and-tested strategies, family travel can be smooth, memorable, and (dare I say it?) even enjoyable.
1. Plan with realistic expectations
Gone are the days of spontaneous detours and lazy afternoons people-watching at cafés you stumbled upon. When travelling with children, a solid plan makes a huge difference. That doesn’t mean scheduling every second but it does mean having a flexible structure that helps everyone feel secure and keeps things running calmly.
Top Tip: Stick to one main activity a day. Leave time for food, naps, and unstructured play. It’ll help everyone stay relaxed and happy.
2. Timing is everything
Try to book flights that align with your child’s sleep or nap schedule. Bring comfort items like a travel pillow or favourite blanket to signal rest. And don’t be tempted by tight layovers that may have worked pre-kids. A bit of buffer time goes a long way when navigating busy airports with little ones and all their kit.
Top Tip: Always check transfer times on arrival. A three-hour coach ride after a long-haul flight is nobody’s idea of fun.
3. Choose the right accommodation
Look for family-focused accommodation, whether that’s a resort with a kids’ club, a villa with a safe garden or a hotel with suites or interconnecting rooms with more space for everyone. Being able to walk to the beach, playgrounds, or family-friendly cafes also makes life much easier.
Top tip: A kitchenette with a fridge and kettle can be a game changer. Perfect for snacks, bottles and early morning breakfasts.
4. Pack smart
Sometimes, packing with kids can feel like prepping for an expedition, but keep it simple. Create a small survival backpack with easy access to essentials like snacks, wipes and a change of clothes and a comfort toy. Add a few ‘surprises’ such as stickers or a toy, as well as some reading materials or games, to break up the journey.
Top tip: Dress in layers, it’s easier to manage changes in temperature, spills or unexpected messes and less to carry around.
5. The Snack Strategy
Hunger is often the root of travel tantrums (adults included!!). So bring familiar food to help with picky eating at 35,000 feet. Take a mix of healthy snacks to keep energy levels stable, as well as sugary ones. Lollipops or dummies can also help relieve ear pressure on take-off and landing.
Top tip: Pack snacks in small zip bags or containers for easy access and portion control.
6. Road trippin’
Road trips are a great way to explore at your own pace, but they come with their own challenges. Keep drives to a maximum of three hours where possible and build in fun stops. Let kids help make a family playlist and choose rest stops to break up the journey.
Top Tip: Look for quirky roadside attractions, nature walks, or playgrounds as they make the journey part of the adventure.
7. Download before you go
A tablet loaded with favourite shows, audiobooks, games, or music can be a game changer, especially in airports or on long journeys. Noise-cancelling headphones can help children feel calmer and reduce sensory overload.
Top Tip: Don’t forget chargers, adaptors, and a backup power bank especially if you're using devices for more than entertainment.
8. Embrace the unexpected
Delays will happen. Meltdowns are inevitable. You might forget something. Try to stay flexible and keep your sense of humour. Travel with little ones often moves at a different pace, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the best memories come from the unexpected moments.
Top Tip: Build in margin — time for slow mornings, spontaneous play, or even just a quiet coffee while the kids nap in the buggy.
As a mum of two and a travel consultant, I get how much thought and care go into planning a holiday with kids. I’m here to take that load off your shoulders and help you create a trip that works for you, your children, and your peace of mind.
Let’s plan a holiday that feels as good as it looks. Drop me an email here! I’d love to help.
Hi, I’m Tina, your personal travel consultant.
Whether you're planning a relaxing getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, I’m here to take the stress out of travel so you can focus on making memories. With 12+ years of experience, I’m here to help you navigate the planning process, uncover hidden gems, and create a seamless itinerary tailored just for you.
Ready to plan your dream trip? Get in touch today. I’d love to help you make it happen!