Traveling with kids can feel like a monumental task. I’ve been there—juggling diaper bags, snacks, toys, and trying to keep my little ones entertained during a long flight. But after years of family adventures, I’ve learned some tricks to make things a lot easier, and even enjoyable. Here’s what has worked for me to have more stress-free, memorable family trips.

1. Plan, Plan, Plan (But Leave Room for Flexibility)

Before I head out, I always take the time to plan everything—accommodations, transportation, and activities—well in advance. But here’s the secret: don’t over-schedule. With kids, things can change quickly, and you need the flexibility to adapt to unexpected nap times or moods. I try to plan a few key activities but leave enough downtime so that we don’t feel rushed.

For instance, on our last trip to the beach, I scheduled a morning outing to a local museum, but I also allowed for free time in the afternoon for the kids to run around on the beach. They loved the structured outing, but they also needed time to unwind. Being flexible is crucial to making the trip enjoyable for everyone.

2. Pack Smart, Not Heavy

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to pack light but efficient. Packing for kids means bringing everything from extra clothes to snacks, but I try to limit it to what’s absolutely necessary. A few items that have saved us:

• Snacks and Drinks: Traveling with hungry kids can quickly turn into a meltdown situation. I always pack plenty of snacks like granola bars, crackers, and fruit pouches. It helps to keep them satisfied and distracted on the go.
• Toys and Entertainment: For longer flights or road trips, I’ve learned to pack a small, lightweight bag of toys, books, or electronics to keep the kids entertained. Simple items like coloring books, a small stuffed animal, or a tablet with downloaded shows can be lifesavers during wait times.
• Change of Clothes & Wipes: Accidents happen, so I always have extra clothes in the carry-on. Wipes are essential for everything from cleaning up spills to wiping down surfaces in restrooms.

3. Choose Kid-Friendly Destinations

In my experience, choosing the right destination can make or break a trip with kids. We’ve found that places with lots of outdoor activities, kid-friendly attractions, and relaxed environments work best. For example, national parks or beach destinations have been great because the kids can explore freely without feeling confined.

But even with kid-friendly destinations, I make sure to research the local amenities ahead of time. Knowing where the nearest pharmacies, hospitals, and family-friendly restaurants are can save a lot of stress.

4. Be Ready for the Airport & Security

The airport can be a stressful place for parents and kids alike. I’ve learned to keep things simple and efficient. We arrive early so that there’s no rush, which helps keep everyone calm. Having the kids involved in the process, like letting them carry their own small backpacks or helping me with the boarding passes, keeps them entertained and feels empowering for them.

Security lines can be tricky, but I make sure to explain what’s going to happen before we get to the checkpoint. That way, they know what to expect, and I don’t have to deal with tantrums when shoes and belts come off.

5. Embrace Naps and Downtime

While it’s tempting to fill every minute with sightseeing, I’ve found that taking breaks and allowing for nap time makes a huge difference in how the day goes. Kids can get overstimulated quickly, so we make sure to schedule a few hours of quiet downtime. Whether it’s a nap in the hotel room or a relaxing stop at a park, these breaks give everyone the energy they need for the next adventure.

6. Set Realistic Expectations

Lastly, I’ve learned to manage my expectations. Traveling with kids means things will inevitably not go according to plan. Flights might get delayed, meltdowns may occur, and naps may be skipped. I’ve realized that it’s all part of the experience. Instead of stressing over what doesn’t go right, I focus on the moments that are going well and remember that these imperfect moments will make for great stories later.