Planning your first international trip with kids can feel overwhelming. You have to worry about passports, time zones, different foods, meltdowns on airplanes, it’s a lot. I totally get it. But with the right approach and a little flexibility, international trips with kids can also be one of the most rewarding things you do as a family.

Read below for 7 tips on how to simplify the planning process and actually enjoy the trip.

1. Choose Your Destination

Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to traveling with kids, but we’ve also never found somewhere to *not* be friendly for kids. If kids live there, you can travel there. For your first trip abroad, aim for a place that checks these boxes:

• Walkable or easy to get around
• Culturally rich but not overwhelming
• Good mix of activities for adults and kids

My suggestions for your first international trip is to think: western Europe, parts of Canada, Japan, or Australia. The best destination is the one that aligns with your family’s travel style and comfort level.

2. Don’t Overpack the Itinerary

When traveling with kids, less is more. Resist the urge to do and see everything. This is something I struggle with on every trip. When traveling with the kids, I plan for one main activity per day and leave space for breaks, downtime, and the inevitable detour to chase pigeons or eat a gelato.

It’s been a long road for me to come to terms with the idea that travel with kids isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about shared experiences, even if that’s just an afternoon at a local playground.

3. Book the Essentials Early

To reduce stress and often save money, book the non-negotiables in advance:

• Flights
• Lodging
• Airport transfers
• A few key activities or tours

I usually go in that order. I use tools like Google Flights to help find the best and cheapest flight options to our destination. I’d also suggest joining destination-specific Facebook groups to help find kid-friendly things to do in each city. 

I also choose accommodations with laundry and walkable locations when possible. An Airbnb or apartment-style hotel can make life much easier with little ones in tow.

4. Prep the Paperwork and Logistics

Give yourself time to handle the important stuff:

• Make sure everyone has valid passports (double check expiration dates!)
• Understand any visa or entry requirements for your destination
• Consider travel insurance—we get an annual family plan through Allianz each year.

The more prepared you are logistically, the freer you’ll feel to enjoy the trip.

5. Pack Light

We know it’s easier said than done. But traveling light means fewer things to carry, lose, or stress about. Focus on:

• Layered clothing
• Travel-sized essentials
• Comfort items for the kids (but only what they’ll really use)
• A few activities for flights and downtime

Remember: you can do laundry and buy things locally if needed. I have more tips on traveling carry-on only in this post. 

6. Expect the Unexpected…and Roll With It

Flights will be delayed. Someone will cry in customs. You might get a crazy taxi driver in Athens. 

But here’s the secret: that’s all part of the adventure. The mishaps often make the best memories later. Be flexible and stay calm. If there’s one thing I’ve learned along the way, it’s that our kids often look to us for how to react. If we’re calm, they’ll stay calm. 

7. Make It About the Moments, Not the Milestones

International family travel isn’t just about seeing big sights. It’s about watching your kids order food in a new language, spotting animals they’ve never seen, or realizing the world is much bigger and kinder than they thought.

Your trip doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. I really mean it. As a type-A personality, I’ve learned to really let go of the perfection. Every trip will end up perfect in its own way. 

Your first international trip with kids might take extra planning, patience, and snacks, but it will be absolutely worth it. With the right mindset and a solid plan, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime and show your kids what it means to be curious, brave, and open to the world.