Family travel made easy - tips for travelling with kids
Family holidays should focus on fun, relaxation, and creating lifelong memories — not stress, tantrums, or constant "are we there yet?" questions. Whether you're planning a long-haul flight to Europe, a road trip along the coast, or a weekend getaway somewhere beachy, travelling with the kids in tow can be smooth and enjoyable with the right preparation.
Here are some proven family travel tips to make your next trip easier, more organised, and a lot more enjoyable for everyone involved.
1. Plan - but don't overplan
Having an itinerary is essential when travelling with kids, but don't try to fill every moment of every day. Kids need downtime, and if you allow for flexibility, you'll be able to respond easily to their moods and energy levels.
A good rule of thumb? Plan one key activity per day and allow the rest of the time for exploring, swimming, or just relaxing. Too much stimulation or running from one attraction to another can lead to cranky kids (and exhausted parents).
2. Involve the kids in the planning
Even young kids enjoy feeling part of the journey, so let them pick a place to visit, choose their travel snacks, or decide which toys to pack. Older children can help research destinations or vote on activities. When they feel involved, they're more excited and invested in the trip – and that means they're less likely to whinge.
Not sure where to go? Here are a few family favourites:
- Great Ocean Road, VIC, for scenic drives, coastal towns, and nature trails
- Kangaroo Island, SA, for wildlife, beaches, and eco-adventures
- Tasmania for history, hiking, and farm stays
- Port Stephens, NSW, for dolphin cruises, sand dunes, and family beaches
- Gold Coast, QLD, for theme parks, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries
3. Pack smart, not heavy
Packing for kids doesn't mean bringing the entire house. Instead, focus on multi-use items and absolute essentials such as:
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Basic medications (think Panadol, Band-Aids, motion sickness tablets)
- Compact activities like colouring books, stickers, or tablets with headphones
- Spare clothes for unexpected messes
Don't forget comfort items like a favourite teddy, blanket, or pillow. These can make unfamiliar hotel rooms feel a little more like home.
4. Choose accommodation wisely
Where you stay can make or break the trip, so you might want to look for family-friendly accommodation with:
- A kitchen or kitchenette
- Laundry facilities
- Separate sleeping areas (hello, apartment-style stays!)
- An on-site playground or pool.
Many Aussie destinations offer great holiday parks and family resorts with everything from jumping pillows to kids' clubs, especially around Queensland, Victoria's coastal towns, and regional NSW.
5. Master the art of in-transit entertainment
Long drives and flights can feel endless for kids, but you can keep them entertained with audiobooks or podcasts, reusable sticker books, downloadable games and movies, and travel-friendly puzzles or Lego kits. Set expectations before departure - let the kids know how long the trip will be, when snack time will be, and what activities they can enjoy during the ride. A little structure goes a long way.
6. Keep snacks close (and plentiful)
It's no secret that snacks are your best friend on any family trip. Pack a mix of healthy options, such as fruit, muesli bars, and cheese sticks, along with a few treats for good behaviour. Reusable containers, bento boxes, and drink bottles are must-haves. Consider bringing a few new snacks they haven't tried before, as the novelty might help keep them interested.
7. Stick to routines if possible
Time zones and new places can throw kids off, so it's essential to maintain familiar routines, especially at bedtime. Bring along their usual PJs and storybooks, and avoid scheduling activities too early in the morning or too late at night. Remember, well-rested kids lead to happier travels for everyone.
8. Be realistic about expectations
Not every day will go as planned. Someone might get sick, the weather might change, or the attraction you were excited about may be closed. That's okay – just remain flexible and keep a sense of humour. These unexpected moments often become the stories you laugh about years later.
9. Travel insurance is a must
Even for domestic trips, travel insurance can be a lifesaver if bags are lost, flights are delayed, or someone falls ill. Look for a policy that covers kids at no extra charge and includes medical and cancellation coverage. If you're travelling overseas with kids, this should be non-negotiable.
10. Make the most of family discounts and freebies
Many Aussie attractions offer free or discounted entry for children. From museums and zoos to theme parks and nature walks, there's a lot to do without breaking the bank. Consider investing in a family travel pass if you plan to visit multiple attractions within a single state or city.
Wrapping up
Travelling with kids doesn't have to be stressful. With the proper planning, some clever packing, and a go-with-the-flow attitude, family holidays can become some of your most treasured memories. So go ahead and book that trip, take the photos, eat the ice cream, and enjoy the ride. The world is a big, beautiful place - and it's even better when you see it through your children's eyes.
Need a holiday but don't have the cash? No worries, Safe Financial is in your corner. Take a look at our cash loans of up to $5,000 to discover how quickly and easily you can borrow extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the money is usually deposited into your bank account within a few hours, which means you can start researching your next travel destination today!