How to Travel with Kids Like a Pro: Mistakes to Avoid
There’s a special kind of chaos that comes with family travel. You’re juggling luggage, snacks, nap schedules, and somehow still trying to soak up the magic of a new place. It can feel like trying to host a tea party on a moving train—while holding a toddler.
I’m Christina: traveler, planner, and mom to one curious, energetic daughter. Over the years, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) what works—and what doesn’t—when traveling as a family. The truth? It’s not about doing everything. It’s about creating the space to connect, explore, and build beautiful memories together—without losing your mind in the process.
So let’s talk about the most common mistakes I see families make—and how to avoid them like a total pro.
1. Overstuffing the Itinerary
When you’re excited to explore a new destination, it’s tempting to pack every day with back-to-back activities. But kids don’t thrive on tight schedules—they thrive on space to play, breathe, and rest. If you’re sprinting from breakfast to museum to historic tour, you’re not giving them (or yourself) time to actually enjoy any of it.
Instead, plan one core activity each day and leave plenty of room for spontaneity. That’s when the magic often happens—like stumbling upon a fountain to splash in or finding the world’s best croissant at a tiny café you hadn’t planned to visit.
2. Choosing Style Over Kid-Friendly Stays
That picture-perfect boutique hotel might look dreamy on Instagram, but if it doesn’t offer things like a pool, a crib, or a place to play, it can quickly turn into a stress zone. A great family hotel is one that gives you a moment to relax while your child stays entertained and safe.
Look for accommodations that offer practical amenities—like breakfast on-site, a separate sleeping space for your child, or even a small kitchenette. A little extra research upfront can mean the difference between a frazzled stay and a rejuvenating one.
3. Forgetting Familiar Snacks
Trying new foods is part of the fun of travel—but most kids still want their go-to snacks, especially when they’re tired, overstimulated, or just missing home. One bad restaurant experience or long travel day without something familiar can throw the whole vibe off.
Always pack a stash of your child’s favorite snacks in your carry-on and day bag. Granola bars, fruit pouches, or whatever they eat without hesitation—those little comforts go a long way when moods start to dip.
4. Not Scheduling Downtime
Downtime isn’t wasted time. It’s the glue that holds a trip together. Without moments to rest, play, or just do nothing, kids (and parents) wear out fast. Some of the best travel memories happen during these unscheduled pauses—splashing in the hotel pool, playing cards in the room, or laying on a picnic blanket watching clouds.
Be intentional about rest. Whether it’s a slow morning or a midday break back at your hotel, don’t feel guilty for building in space to recharge.
5. Planning Everything Without Your Child’s Input
When kids feel included in the planning, they show up differently. They’re more excited, more curious, and more willing to go with the flow—because it’s their trip too.
Let your child help choose one activity, pick a daily treat, or help pack their travel bag. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but giving them some ownership goes a long way toward cooperation and joy.
6. Cutting Corners on Transfers
I’ve seen it too many times—families arrive in a new city without a plan for how to get to their hotel, thinking they’ll just “figure it out.” But when you’re tired, in a new country, and carrying bags and a cranky child, that decision to skip a pre-booked transfer suddenly doesn’t feel worth it.
Always prioritize safe, smooth transportation—especially on travel days. Pre-book your airport rides, check if your destination requires car seats, and know how you’re getting from point A to B. You’ll thank yourself later.
7. Being Too Rigid with Routines
Trying to replicate your home nap and meal schedule minute-for-minute while on the road will only frustrate you. Travel throws off rhythms—it’s inevitable. What matters more is honoring your child’s needs, not following the clock.
Stay flexible. If your child usually naps at 1:00 but is dozing off at 11:30 in the stroller, let it happen. If dinner runs late one night, balance it with an earlier bedtime the next. Grace and adaptability are your best travel tools.
8. Not Preparing for Delays or Messes
Delays happen. Spills happen. Missed connections happen. But these moments are a lot easier to handle when you’re prepared.
Always pack an extra set of clothes for your child (and for you—trust me), plus wipes, snacks, small toys or books, a phone charger, and any medications or must-haves in your carry-on. You may not need it all—but when you do, you’ll be incredibly glad you have it.
9. Missing Out on Truly Kid-Friendly Experiences
It’s easy to focus on the adult-side of travel—historical landmarks, scenic drives, trendy restaurants—but if the trip isn’t fun for your child, you’ll feel it. Boredom leads to fussing, and nobody has a good time when the little one’s melting down in a museum.
Balance the “grown-up” activities with places your child will love—interactive museums, zoos, local playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches. When your child is lit up and engaged, you’ll enjoy it more too.
10. Forgetting to Do Something for You
You’ve planned, packed, and are running point every single day. But where’s your moment? So many moms pour everything into the trip and forget to take even 15 minutes for themselves.
It doesn’t have to be big. It might be your morning coffee alone on the balcony, a short walk while your partner plays with the kids, or a mini spa treatment. Prioritize one thing just for you—because you deserve to feel cared for, too.
A Better Way to Travel—Together
Here’s the truth: traveling with your kids doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or impossible. It can be joyful, deeply connecting, and even restorative—but only if you stop trying to do it all, and instead focus on what actually matters. You’re not a tour guide. You’re a mom building memories that will shape your child’s view of the world—and of family.
When we travel with intention, flexibility, and a bit of preparation, we create more than just a vacation. We create trust, resilience, wonder, and laughter. Your child may not remember every landmark—but they’ll remember how it felt to be with you, exploring the world together.
If you’re ready to ditch the stress and start planning with confidence, I’ve got you.
Download the free 18 Summers Guide—your ultimate tool to simplify, organize, and actually enjoy traveling with your kids.And if you want expert eyes on your next trip? I’d love to help.
Do you need help planning your next vacation? Book a FREE Vacation Conversation here.
Who is Christina?
Meet Christina Vieira, a Traveler, a Planner, and a Mom. She is also the owner of Showcase the World Travel, a modern travel agency that helps busy Moms take the vacation they deserve without adding “planning it all” to their to-do lists. After all, Mom should get to enjoy their vacation too.
She specializes in Disney, the Caribbean, Europe, and has helped dozens of families have magical vacations that they will always remember. She loves traveling with her four-year-old Annabelle. Her favorite destinations include Walt Disney World, Wyoming, and Prague.
