1. Start with the why (and pick the right destination)

Decide what this trip is really about: connection, relaxation, adventure, or a mix. For kids under 12, choose destinations with simple logistics, short transfers, and built-in kid appeal (beaches, pools, animals, theme parks, nature). The clearer your “why,” the easier every other decision becomes.

2. Plan your days around kid energy, not the clock

Little kids peak in the morning and crash hard in the afternoon. Aim for one “big thing” a day (zoo, museum, park) and leave the rest flexible. Build in quiet time daily—pool, cartoons, or naps—so evenings don’t completely derail.

3. Make travel day as kid-friendly as the destination

For flights or long drives, think in 90-minute chunks: snack, activity, bathroom/stretch, repeat. Pack a small “travel kit” for each child (headphones, coloring, fidgets, surprise toy). For flights, avoid super tight connections and try to align travel with usual nap times when possible.

4. Choose accommodations that do some of the heavy lifting

With kids, the “right” hotel or rental is often more important than the city. Look for:

• A pool (instant kid entertainment)

• Easy breakfast options

• Fridge/microwave if possible

• Walkable access to food, parks, or public transport

Suites or apartment-style stays can save everyone’s sanity at bedtime.

5. Pack light… but smart (especially for the under-12 crowd)

You don’t need everything, just the right things:

• Change of clothes in carry-on for each kid

• Simple first-aid/meds kit

• Snacks they actually eat

• Comfort items (stuffie, blanket, pacifier)

• A small foldable tote for dirty clothes or overflow

Kids are happier when they can move easily—and so are you.

6. Use food as both fuel and fun

Hungry kids derail plans fast. Keep snacks handy and don’t schedule big activities right before normal mealtimes. When you can, make food part of the adventure—local bakeries, ice cream stops, markets—so kids feel like they’re “exploring,” not just being dragged to restaurants.

7. Set expectations early (and keep them realistic)

Before you leave, talk through what the trip will be like in kid language: airports, waiting, walking, taking turns choosing activities. On the trip, celebrate small wins—good listening in a museum, trying a new food, helping with bags. Lower expectations for “perfect behavior” and aim for “we made memories and everyone mostly survived.” 😄

8. Build in kid-choice moments every day

Even young kids handle travel better when they feel some control. Offer small, pre-screened choices:

• “Park first or ice cream first?”

• “Pool or beach this afternoon?”

• “Red shirt or blue shirt?”

You’re still steering the ship, but they feel like co-captains.

9. Prioritize safety and backups (so you can relax more)

Take photos of passports/IDs and keep digital copies. Share your itinerary with a trusted person at home. At your destination, agree on a “meeting spot” if someone gets separated and put your phone number in younger kids’ pockets or on a wristband. A tiny bit of preparation makes it easier to breathe and enjoy the fun.

10. Remember: this is about memories, not perfection

There will be meltdowns, missed naps, and random travel weirdness. That doesn’t mean the trip is a failure. Zoom out: your kids will remember laughing in the pool, seeing something new, or having your undivided attention—not the one museum you didn’t make it to.