Travelling with children can create some of your family's happiest memories, and some of your most stressful moments. Long journeys, unfamiliar beds, tired toddlers and picky eaters can test anyone's patience. The secret to successful family travel is realistic planning and a flexible mindset. These practical tips will help you plan trips that work for everyone, from babies to teenagers.

Plan With Kids in Mind

Choose Family-Friendly Destinations

Look for places with:

  • short or manageable travel times,
  • parks, beaches, pools and outdoor space,
  • child-friendly attractions like zoos, aquariums and interactive museums,
  • good healthcare facilities,
  • safe, walkable areas.

Involve Children in Planning

Let kids choose an activity or restaurant. Show them photos and maps of the destination. Children who feel involved are usually more excited and cooperative.

Travel at the Right Time

School holidays are more expensive, but may be unavoidable. If your children aren't in school yet, travelling off-peak saves money and crowds.

Keep the Itinerary Light

Plan one main activity per day, with plenty of downtime. Build in naps, snack breaks and time for play. Overpacked schedules lead to meltdowns for kids and adults alike.

Choosing Accommodation

Look for:

  • family rooms or apartments with separate sleeping areas,
  • kitchens or kitchenettes for easy meals and snacks,
  • laundry facilities,
  • cots or extra beds,
  • pools, gardens or play areas,
  • a location close to attractions to reduce travel time.

Our guide on how to choose a hotel has more tips.

Packing Tips for Family Travel

  • Use packing cubes, one per family member.
  • Pack a day bag with snacks, water, wipes, tissues, plasters, hand sanitiser and a change of clothes.
  • Bring comfort items like a favourite toy or blanket.
  • Pack entertainment: books, colouring, small toys, card games and downloaded shows.
  • Keep children's medicines and a basic first aid kit handy.
  • Consider buying bulky items like nappies at your destination.

Use our complete travel packing list as a starting point.

Flying With Kids

Before the Flight

  • Book seats together early.
  • Check baggage allowances for children and infants, including prams and car seats.
  • Choose flight times that match your children's routines when possible.
  • Check passport and document requirements for children, which may differ from adults'.

At the Airport

  • Use family security lanes where available.
  • Let kids burn energy in play areas before boarding.
  • Take advantage of early family boarding if offered.

See our airport tips for more.

On the Plane

  • Feed babies or give older kids a drink or snack during take-off and landing to help with ear pressure.
  • Pack new small toys or activities to reveal during the flight.
  • Walk the aisle with restless toddlers when it's safe.
  • Bring headphones sized for children.
  • Stay calm and don't worry about others. Most passengers understand.

Road Trips With Children

  • Plan stops every two hours for toilet breaks and play.
  • Pack snacks, drinks and entertainment within reach.
  • Play car games like I Spy, the alphabet game or audiobooks.
  • Travel during nap times for younger children.
  • Bring motion sickness remedies if needed.

Our road trip planning guide has a full checklist.

Eating With Kids While Travelling

  • Keep plenty of familiar snacks on hand.
  • Eat at off-peak times to avoid waiting.
  • Choose relaxed restaurants and food markets.
  • Let kids try one new food each day, without pressure.
  • Use accommodation kitchens for simple breakfasts and dinners.

Keeping Kids Safe

  • Dress children in bright clothing in crowded places.
  • Write your phone number on a wristband or card in their pocket.
  • Take a photo of your child each morning so you know exactly what they're wearing.
  • Agree a meeting point if you get separated.
  • Use sun protection and keep kids hydrated.
  • Supervise closely around water.
  • Bring suitable car seats or check that rental cars provide them.

Read our full travel safety tips.

Handling Jet Lag and Sleep

Children can be affected by time changes too. Get outside in daylight, stick to local mealtimes and keep bedtime routines as familiar as possible. See our guide on how to avoid jet lag.

Tips by Age

Babies

Babies are surprisingly portable. Use a baby carrier for convenience and keep feeding and sleeping routines as consistent as possible.

Toddlers

Toddlers need the most entertainment and flexibility. Plan short activities, frequent breaks and plenty of space to move.

School-Age Children

Kids aged 6–12 enjoy learning about new places. Give them responsibilities like reading maps or carrying their own backpack.

Teenagers

Give teens a say in the itinerary and some independence where safe. Wi-Fi access may be very important to them.

Saving Money on Family Travel

  • Travel off-peak if possible.
  • Book accommodation with kitchens.
  • Look for free activities: beaches, parks, hiking and free museums.
  • Check for family tickets and child discounts.
  • Pack snacks and water to avoid expensive purchases.

Read our guide on how to travel on a budget.

A Sample Family Day Abroad

  • Morning: breakfast in the apartment, then the main activity while energy is high.
  • Lunch: picnic in a park or a relaxed café.
  • Afternoon: pool time, rest or naps.
  • Late afternoon: short outing to a playground, beach or market.
  • Evening: early dinner and the usual bedtime routine.

Final Thoughts

Family travel is rarely perfect, but it can be wonderfully rewarding. Choose kid-friendly destinations and accommodation, keep plans simple, pack smart and stay flexible. The unexpected moments often become the best stories. Explore more tips in our travel tips section.