In my travel experience over the years, I’ve seen many people split their travel lives into two – before kids and after kids. If you say, “I’m traveling solo, without children,” that immediately paints a picture of stress-free vacations, honeymooning on the beach, Instagram worthy moments, romance and easy, go with the flow atmosphere. A lot of the times, after kids become part of the family – people hold off on traveling entirely because it’s just “too hard.”

I hear this all the time from families – Anna, how do you do it? It’s really not as complicated as it may sound. We like a challenge and we wanted to show you that if it is it is doable for us, it is doable for you, too.

My 10 tips for stress-free European vacations with kids:

1. Plan ahead

Pick a destination and the best time of year to visit – shoulder season is perfect to minimize crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Based on kids’ ages and how well they travel, pick a location that’s an easy (direct, when possible) flight and is the right climate.

We’ve picked places like Germany and Switzerland because of the views, nature, great food, kid-friendly activities, and the ease of traveling within the country via a rail system. Stay in a centrally located hotel close to major attractions. You don’t want to spend half of your vacation time and money in cabs going to and from the hotel when your child will need a nap or leaves their favorite toy in the room.

2. Pack lightly but strategically

It’s not easy to travel with a full-size stroller and a million bags. There are ways to downsize the suitcase while making sure you have the necessities. Packing cubes are great space savers! I always bring a change of clothes for all of us in the carry-on luggage, because with kids – accidents happen.

3. Use airport facilities

Make use of airport kids lounges and breastfeeding areas for nursing moms when possible. Many airports in Europe offer kids playrooms that are great for getting all the energy out while you wait for your flight to depart.

4. Avoid lengthy layovers

Long flights with layovers are hard on anyone. If possible, spend a little extra on a direct flight. For example, Zurich’s international airport is large and requires lots of walking between the check-in area and. baggage drop, security checkpoints, and also at the departure gates. Running from gate to gate to catch a connecting flight can be difficult with a small child. Likewise, with a 3-7-hour layover there is just not enough time to leave the airport and it’s a recipe for restless children running around, wreaking havoc in the airport.

5. Pack new toys/gadgets/books

This is a must for the flight to keep kids entertained – and the key word here is “new.” I always bring a few favorite toys and specifically something new as a surprise to keep my younger son excited about our trip. My older son is wrapped up in his electronic gadgets and generally prefers to watch a movie or nap.

6. Book your airport transfers or car rentals ahead of time

Private transfers make it easier to get to your hotel after a long flight, without having to figure out public transportation (often in a new language) on the spot. A travel agent can suggest options that work well within your budget.

7. Be flexible

Decide on your must-see destinations and activities ahead of time but be flexible if you need a day to just take it. easy and also hang back at the hotel or spend an afternoon at the local playground. Likewise temper tantrums, bad weather, or an unexpected sore throat can throw off your travel plans. Be flexible about the things you want to accomplish and leave room for downtime in your schedule.

With a rail pass, which allows for unlimited train travel in countries like Switzerland. You may decide where to go night before based on factors like weather, attitude, energy and destination.

8. Trip insurance

This is a must for any unexpected medical or travel-related issues like baggage delays, cancelled flights, medical emergencies and more.

9. Map it out!

Map out cafes and supermarkets within walking distance from your hotel – in case you need any quick baby/kid items that the hotel can’t provide or any snack food like fruit and yogurts.

When I travel with my family, I prefer hotels with a kitchenette, a microwave and a mini-fridge. It saves time when you need a quick meal or to reheat something for the kids. In Switzerland, we booked a studio room with a separate kitchen and dining area for family breakfasts. We saved time and money on eating breakfast at home and also always had a variety of snacks, fresh local bread, cheeses and fruit available.

10. Ask a travel agent for help

Last but not least! We offer a wealth of knowledge about specific destinations, which locations are kid-friendly, age-appropriate tours and more. I have first-hand experience with kids and international travel, both for my family and our clients.

My most important takeaway?

Don’t be afraid to travel with kids, it’s enjoyable if you plan ahead and prioritize what matters. You know your family best but travel agents can lend a helping hand and take the stress out of the process. So, you can enjoy family time and make unforgettable memories.

Ready to take your kids to Europe? Grab time on Anna’s calendar for a complimentary consultation here

Here are some “extras” I can help you with to make your travel experience seamless:

Want to arrange for a special anniversary dinner, bespoke champagne tasting, day trip, or a private, pre-opening museum tour? You got it.
Private, luxury transfers: relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about driving in a foreign destination after a long transatlantic flight. We can arrange for a luxury car with drivers that have knowledge of each destination.
Unmatched culinary experiences: Looking for a reservation at a specific Michelin-star restaurant or a private walking food tour, wine tasting, or whiskey experience? We can help.
A digital itinerary on an app that’s available even when your phone is offline. The app includes all activities, vouchers, and confirmations. You never have to worry about losing your printed travel documents again.