If you are like us, we love traveling. Before having children many people choose to travel and explore the world for all of its beauty and excitement. New countries, new cultures, new food, new people, new adventures…all of the reasons we love traveling. I remember the time when we would just pick a place, buy the tickets/hotels etc. and off we went. But what about after having kids? Is it even possible to embark on a journey like before? The answer is…probably. It will most likely take a little more planning, a little bit more luggage but that’s it. It is not impossible, if anything it is encouraged.

Of course, the age of the child or children may play a role in the type of trip you want to go on, but it should in no way deter you from taking the trip. Sometimes I meet people who give up on travel once they have kids. But just for a moment think of all the precious quality time you are giving up on to spend as a family. Also think of the learning opportunities you can offer your child when you bring them to a new place. They get to try new food, see exciting new places and meet wonderful new people. Of course staying home is safe and familiar, but you are the person you are today because of the experiences you had earlier in life. To me traveling builds character, it challenges your problem solving skills and it takes us out of our comfort zone. All of the above and more are traits that a successful adult possesses. Wouldn’t you want to instill those same qualities in your child? Kids are like sponges, they absorb whatever information you present them with. You may actually be surprised by how adaptable and comfortable your child may be while abroad.

There are a number of reasons people choose not to travel after having kids many of which are easily solved with some planning.

When you think of traveling with kids you are probably imagining the insane amount of stuff you have to bring with you for the trip. But let me assure you that it is not as bad as you may think. Sure, at each stage a child requires different types of gear, but you can keep it pretty manageable if you really think through what you actually need and what is just nice to have.

Here are a few things you will definitely need, but don’t have to bring with you:

1. Diapers

When traveling with an infant or toddler, you will probably need diapers. They are light, but very bulky, so instead of bringing a suitcase full of diapers, just being what you need for the flight(s) to your destination. Once you arrive, chances are there will be a store nearby where you can buy as many as you need for the duration of your stay. There are very few locations that may not have diapers available for sale, so maybe skip those until your child is out of diapers.

   2. Stroller

Sure, you have your favorite stroller at home and it is essential for you to get around easily, but it is not always convenient to lug a stroller around airports. Most airlines will allow you to gate check a stroller for free, but maybe you don’t feel like carrying a bulky bag around. Fair enough, you don’t have to. If your child is able to walk, you can go on vacation stroller-free. Once at your destination, you may be able to rent a stroller for the duration of your stay. Alternatively, while vacationing in Edinburgh, Scotland in 2023 we opted to purchase an inexpensive stroller from a mall in the city. It was actually cheaper than renting it. For 65 British Pounds ($83) we purchased a brand new stroller. You can take the stroller back home to keep, sell. You can also donate or give away the stroller at the end of your trip abroad. Either way, it eliminates the need to carry a stroller one or both ways.

    3. Toys

What we have found out while traveling with a child is that you don’t actually have to bring that many toys. Kids are amazing at finding interest in just about anything…from a simple napkin to an empty plastic cup/bottle, a piece of paper and a pen or a magazine. We only bring two toys/lovey/games for the flight(s) and one favorite book for the plane and/or night stories. Alternatively you can just buy a kid’s book at your destination. Don’t feel obligated to bring every item that they like to play with. You may be surprised by how little your child actually needs from home.

    4. Food

Sure, if you are traveling with an infant, you will probably need formula (unless you are breastfeeding). Once children get to an age where they can eat solids, don’t bring a suitcase full of food. We bring enough snacks for the flight(s) and that’s about it. Most destinations have grocery stores that sell baby food and at restaurants you can order items like scrambled eggs, steamed veggies or fruits and mash them for your baby. One food that is always a crowd favorite and is available just about anywhere in the world is…get ready for it….French fries! That’s right, my child can live on French fries. Of course, the thought of her eating French fries every day drives me a little crazy and makes me cringe, but hey, when on vacation I will allow for some leniency. Phew!

    5. Crib

It is true that some children won’t sleep anywhere other than their own bed and if that is the case, feel free to bring your own pack-n-play. However most children are okay with sleeping just about anywhere as long as there are a couple of reminders of home like a lovey, favorite blanket or a sound machine. When booking a hotel or Airbnb make sure to inquire about a crib. Even though not guaranteed, so far we haven’t been left without one. Hotels and hosts will do their best to accommodate the request. They do want you to be happy and comfortable. Be sure to read the amenities section before booking your room to verify that a crib is in fact an option. There are some resorts and rental homes that do not offer cribs as an amenity.

With all of the above in mind you will need to bring some baby gear. Read my blog The Ultimate Handbook: Lightweight and Carry-On Travel Gear Essentials for Babies and Toddlers for some examples of items that have been very helpful and I have enjoyed using during our adventures. All of the items you will read about are light weight and fit in your carry-on luggage with the exception of the Doona Stroller.

Traveling with children, despite its reputation for being challenging, can surprisingly offer moments of ease and enchantment. Witnessing the world through their curious eyes adds a magical layer to the adventure. Many destinations now cater specifically to families, providing amenities like play areas, kid-friendly menus, and interactive attractions. Advances in travel gear, from compact strollers to ingenious entertainment devices, have lightened the load for parents. With careful planning and a flexible mindset, navigating airports and accommodations can become smoother, turning family travel into a delightful bonding experience that creates lasting memories for both parents and children alike.