Family Travel: Making Memories with Kids Around the World

There’s something magical about watching your child’s eyes light up when they see the ocean for the first time, or hear them giggle uncontrollably as they feed giraffes at a safari park. Family travel isn’t just about ticking destinations off a bucket list—it’s about creating those precious moments that become the stories you’ll tell for years to come.

If you’ve been on the fence about taking that big family trip, wondering if it’s worth the hassle of packing for tiny humans or dealing with jet lag, let me tell you: it absolutely is. And I’m here to help you navigate the beautiful chaos of traveling with kids, no matter their age.

Why Family Travel Matters More Than Ever

Let’s be real for a second. In our screen-obsessed world where kids are glued to tablets and parents are constantly checking work emails, family travel offers something increasingly rare: uninterrupted quality time together. No soccer practice to rush to, no homework deadlines looming, just your family exploring the world together.

The numbers back this up too. Recent studies show that 92% of parents are planning to travel with their children in 2025—the highest level since the pandemic. And it’s not just about getting away. Parents report that family travel helps their kids overcome lingering pandemic effects, gives them a more positive outlook on life, and makes them more adaptable and open to new experiences.

But here’s what really gets me excited: 77% of parents believe family travel enriches their children’s education, and 68% say it helps them become better global citizens. That’s not just vacation—that’s investing in your kids’ future while having the time of your lives.

The Rise of “Kidfluence” in Travel Planning

Here’s a trend that might surprise you: kids are no longer just passengers on family trips—they’re becoming co-pilots in the planning process. This phenomenon, cleverly dubbed “kidfluence,” shows that 74% of parents with children over age 7 actively involve their kids in choosing destinations and activities.

And honestly? This makes total sense. Kids today are exposed to the world through YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram in ways we never were. They’re seeing other families explore Iceland’s waterfalls, swim with sea turtles in the Galápagos, or wander through Tokyo’s neon-lit streets. Why wouldn’t they have opinions about where they want to go?

The best part is that involving kids in planning makes them more invested in the trip. When children help choose activities, they’re more engaged, happier, and less likely to complain when things don’t go perfectly. Plus, you might be surprised by their suggestions. While you’re thinking about wine tours in Tuscany, your eight-year-old might be dreaming of spotting wild orangutans in Borneo—and honestly, that sounds pretty amazing too.

Choosing the Right Destination for Your Family

One of the most common questions I hear is: “Where should we go with kids?” The answer depends on your family’s interests, your children’s ages, and what kind of experience you’re after. But let me share some destinations that consistently wow families.

For Beach-Loving Families

If your kids are happiest with sand between their toes, you can’t go wrong with Costa Rica. This Central American gem offers the perfect blend of beaches, rainforests, and wildlife. Your kids can spot sloths, learn to surf, zip-line through the jungle canopy, and still have plenty of beach time. Plus, the “Pura Vida” lifestyle is genuinely family-friendly, and Costa Ricans are incredibly welcoming to children.

Bali is another paradise for families, offering stunning beaches, family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs, and cultural experiences like traditional dance performances and cooking classes. The Ubud Monkey Forest is always a hit with kids, though keep a tight grip on your sunglasses—those monkeys are cheeky!

For Adventure Seekers

South Africa is an absolute dream for families who want adventure. Imagine your kids’ faces when they see their first elephant in the wild, or watch a pride of lions lounging in the sun. Cape Town offers the perfect mix of wildlife safaris, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly attractions like the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Plus, you can ride the cable car up Table Mountain for views that’ll take your breath away.

For something closer to home, consider the national parks of the American West. Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon offer jaw-dropping natural beauty and endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and teaching kids about geology and conservation. There’s something humbling about standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon with your children, all of you tiny specks in the face of such ancient grandeur.

For Culture Enthusiasts

Japan might seem intimidating with young kids, but it’s actually incredibly family-friendly. Tokyo offers everything from kid-friendly museums to the magic of Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Kyoto’s temples and gardens provide cultural immersion, while the Japanese Alps offer hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Plus, Japanese culture is so respectful and orderly that traveling with kids feels surprisingly stress-free.

Portugal is another winner for families seeking culture without the chaos. The Portuguese are warm and welcoming, the food is delicious (and kid-friendly), and you can explore ancient castles, wander Lisbon’s colorful streets, and relax on the Algarve’s beautiful beaches. The pace of life is relaxed, which means less stress for parents and more time to actually enjoy your vacation.

For Multi-Generational Trips

Speaking of grandparents, multi-generational travel is booming, with 47% of travelers choosing these trips in 2025—a 17% increase from last year. And I totally get why. There’s something special about watching your parents bond with your kids, creating memories that span three generations.

For these trips, consider all-inclusive resorts in places like Mexico’s Riviera Maya or the Caribbean. These resorts take the stress out of planning because everything—food, drinks, activities, kids’ clubs—is included. Grandparents can relax by the pool while you take the kids snorkeling, or everyone can join in for a family catamaran cruise.

Traveling with Different Ages: What You Need to Know

Here’s the truth: traveling with a baby is completely different from traveling with a teenager, and what works for a preschooler won’t work for a tween. Let me break it down by age group.

Babies and Toddlers (0-2 years)

The good news? Babies are surprisingly portable. They sleep a lot, they’re content with simple entertainment, and many airlines let children under two fly free as lap infants (though I’d recommend buying them their own seat for safety and your sanity).

The key with this age group is to embrace slow travel. Don’t try to see everything. Pick a destination with good infrastructure, book accommodations with a kitchen so you can prepare familiar foods, and build in plenty of downtime. A good baby carrier is worth its weight in gold—you can navigate cobblestone streets and hiking trails without wrestling with a stroller.

Pro tip: Ship diapers and other bulky essentials to your destination ahead of time. Your back will thank you.

Preschoolers (3-4 years)

This age is all about wonder and curiosity. The good news is that preschoolers don’t need expensive excursions to be entertained. They’ll be just as thrilled feeding ducks in a park as they would be at a fancy attraction.

That said, they still need lots of sleep and downtime. Don’t pack your schedule too tightly. Build in pool time, playground visits, and yes, even some screen time if it means everyone stays happy. This is also the age where kids’ clubs at resorts become an option, giving you a chance to enjoy a nice dinner while they’re having fun with other kids.

School-Age Kids (5-10 years)

This is the sweet spot for family travel. Kids this age have the stamina for longer adventures, they’re old enough to remember the trip, and they’re genuinely curious about the world. They can snorkel, hike moderate trails, and appreciate cultural experiences in a way younger kids can’t.

Get them involved in planning. Let them research destinations, choose some activities, and even navigate using maps. This builds their confidence and makes them feel like important members of the travel team. Plus, they often qualify for half-price tickets at attractions, making adventures more affordable.

Just remember: even at this age, kids can have meltdowns when they’re hungry, tired, or overstimulated. Always carry snacks, build in rest time, and have a backup plan for rainy days or cranky moods.

Tweens and Teens (11-18 years)

Older kids can be amazing travel companions. They can carry their own gear, participate in almost any activity, and offer genuine insights about the places you visit. They’re also old enough to appreciate cultural differences and historical significance.

The challenge? They might experience FOMO (fear of missing out) on what’s happening back home with friends. Consider setting boundaries around phone use—maybe phones are allowed during downtime but put away during activities and family meals. Some families find that adventure-focused trips, like river rafting or zip-lining, naturally encourage kids to unplug and be present.

Also, carve out one-on-one time with each child if you’re traveling with multiple kids. A special breakfast with just you and your teen, or letting them choose one activity that’s just for them, can make them feel valued and strengthen your bond.

Practical Tips for Stress-Free Family Travel

Let me share some hard-won wisdom from years of traveling with kids:

Involve everyone in planning. Even young kids can look at pictures and help choose between beach or mountains, city or countryside. When everyone has input, everyone’s more invested in making the trip great.

Pack smart, not heavy. You don’t need to bring your entire house. Most destinations have stores where you can buy forgotten items. Do pack a well-stocked carry-on with essentials for at least 24 hours, just in case checked luggage goes missing.

Always have snacks. I cannot stress this enough. Hangry kids are nobody’s friend. Pack more snacks than you think you’ll need.

Build in downtime. Don’t try to see everything. Some of my best travel memories are lazy afternoons at the hotel pool or impromptu picnics in a park. Downtime lets everyone recharge and prevents meltdowns.

Be flexible. Your carefully planned itinerary might go out the window when your kid gets sick, the weather doesn’t cooperate, or you discover an amazing playground that wasn’t on your radar. Roll with it. Some of the best travel moments are unplanned.

Say yes more than usual. Ice cream for breakfast? Sure! Staying up past bedtime to watch street performers? Why not! Vacation is the time to relax the rules a bit and create those “remember when” moments.

Consider travel insurance. With kids, unexpected things happen. Travel insurance can protect your investment if someone gets sick or you need to cancel.

Use technology strategically. While you might limit screen time at home, tablets loaded with movies and games can be lifesavers on long flights or car rides. Download content before you leave so you’re not dependent on WiFi.

The Money Talk: Making Family Travel Affordable

Let’s address the elephant in the room: family travel can be expensive. The average family spent about $8,052 on travel in 2024, and 73% of parents cite affordability as their biggest concern.

But here’s the thing—there are ways to make it work without breaking the bank:

Travel during shoulder season. Spring and fall often offer better prices and fewer crowds while still having decent weather. Plus, your kids might learn more when they’re not fighting through masses of tourists.

Consider all-inclusive resorts. While the upfront cost might seem high, knowing that food, drinks, and activities are covered can actually save money and reduce stress about budgeting on the go.

Book accommodations with kitchens. Vacation rentals or hotels with kitchenettes let you prepare some meals, which significantly cuts costs. Breakfast at your rental and picnic lunches can free up budget for nice dinners out.

Use credit card points and miles. If you’re strategic about it, you can earn enough points through everyday spending to cover flights or hotels. Just make sure you’re paying off the balance each month.

Look for free activities. Many museums offer free admission days, parks and beaches are free, and simply exploring a new neighborhood costs nothing but offers rich experiences.

Limit paid attractions. You don’t need to do every tourist activity. Choose a few special experiences and supplement with free or low-cost options.

The Real Benefits of Family Travel

Beyond the Instagram-worthy photos and the fun, family travel offers profound benefits that last long after you’ve unpacked your suitcases.

Travel strengthens family bonds. When you’re navigating a new city together, trying unfamiliar foods, or working as a team to set up a tent, you’re building connections and creating shared experiences that become part of your family’s story.

It builds resilience and adaptability in kids. When flights get delayed, plans change, or things don’t go perfectly, kids learn to roll with the punches. They discover they can handle uncertainty and come out fine on the other side.

Travel expands worldviews. Seeing how people live in other places, trying new foods, hearing different languages—these experiences teach kids that there are many ways to live a good life. It builds empathy and cultural awareness in ways that classroom lessons simply can’t match.

And honestly? It reminds us all to be present. When you’re watching the sunset over the ocean with your kids, or hiking through a rainforest listening to howler monkeys, you’re not thinking about work emails or household chores. You’re just there, together, making memories.

Making It Happen

Look, I’m not going to pretend that family travel is always easy. There will be moments of chaos, tears (from kids and possibly adults), and times when you wonder why you didn’t just stay home. But I promise you, those moments will fade, and what you’ll remember are the good times.

You’ll remember your daughter’s face when she saw her first sea turtle. Your son’s pride when he successfully ordered food in another language. The family joke that started when someone mispronounced a foreign word. The sunset you watched together from a mountaintop.

These are the moments that matter. These are the memories that will sustain your family through tough times and bring smiles for years to come.

So start planning that trip. Involve your kids in choosing where to go. Set aside a little money each month. Research destinations that match your family’s interests. And then go. The world is waiting, and your kids are only young once.

Trust me, you won’t regret it. The dishes will still be there when you get home, but the opportunity to travel with your kids while they’re young? That’s fleeting. Seize it.

Because at the end of the day, the greatest gift you can give your children isn’t things—it’s experiences, adventures, and the knowledge that the world is big, beautiful, and theirs to explore. And there’s no better way to teach them that than by showing them yourself.

So pack those bags, embrace the chaos, and get ready to make some memories. The world is calling, and your family adventure awaits.