Planning & Packing

Once I have pinned all the key sights, attractions, and kid-friendly activities on Google Maps and gathered input from travel blogs and Facebook groups, I use this map as a critical tool to decide exactly where we want to stay during our trip. This step is especially important when traveling with young children, who often have limited stamina for walking or long transfers. Choosing accommodation close to our planned excursions helps minimize travel time, reduce fatigue, and maximize the time we spend enjoying the experiences rather than stuck in transit. It also means easier access to the essentials like restaurants, grocery stores, and playgrounds, which can be lifesavers with little ones.

When it comes to lodging, I almost always opt for vacation rentals over traditional hotels. There are several reasons for this preference, starting with the simple but vital need for sleep. Traveling with kids can be unpredictable, and having separate bedrooms ensures that when one child goes to bed early or has a rough night, it doesn’t disturb the rest of the family. Quiet and comfort are priceless, especially on vacation. Air conditioning is another non-negotiable feature for us, particularly when visiting warm or humid destinations. Cool, comfy sleep makes all the difference when it comes to feeling rested and ready for whatever adventures the next day brings.

Another practical benefit of vacation rentals is having a washer and dryer. Being able to do laundry mid-trip means we can pack lighter and avoid lugging around bulky suitcases. It also allows for quicker turnaround if the kids spill something or need a fresh set of clothes unexpectedly. This convenience often translates into less stress and more flexibility in our daily itinerary.

A kitchen is an absolute game-changer for family travel. It allows us to prepare breakfasts at our own pace—perfect for avoiding the typical rushed hotel buffet chaos and keeping hangry kids at bay. Since mealtime rhythms often vary from place to place—especially in Europe, where restaurants may open later and food service is more relaxed—it’s a huge relief to have the option to feed the kids early or provide a second breakfast if needed. Packing lunches for excursions is another huge plus. When you’re out exploring, it’s not always easy to find family-friendly restaurants or quick meal options, so having homemade snacks and meals on hand helps prevent meltdowns and keeps everyone energized.

And since we usually stay in vacation rentals instead of hotels, we’re not limited by space or amenities. That means we can pack more of the things that make traveling with kids easier—like our trusty white noise machine, resistance bands for quick workouts, and a mini medicine kit just in case. These small comforts from home help everyone feel more settled and keep our days running smoothly. Check out our travel essentials to see what always comes with us on every trip.

Finally, I seek out vacation rentals that offer a more authentic or cultural experience whenever possible. Whether it’s a host who prepares traditional meals, shares local recipes, or offers insights into the neighborhood and its history, these personal touches turn an ordinary stay into something memorable and unique. It’s these moments—connecting with local culture in a meaningful way—that enrich our travels and give our kids a broader understanding of the world around them.

One of our favorite examples of this was at Punta Elephante in El Salvador, where we had not one, but three amazing hosts—a private chef, a groundskeeper, and a concierge who helped with groceries and excursions. This added layer of support was incredibly helpful, especially on the days we wanted to relax at home and enjoy an authentic meal without the hassle of going out. One afternoon, our host even took us on a personal tour of the nearby sea caves once the tide had gone out—an unforgettable highlight we wouldn’t have discovered on our own.