When it comes to booking family vacations with points and miles, Hyatt has long been one of my favorite hotel brands. From spacious rooms and family-friendly amenities to some incredible redemption opportunities, World of Hyatt has helped make memorable family trips possible without paying those sometimes eye-watering hotel prices.

And while Hyatt has made some significant changes to its loyalty program in 2026, I still think it deserves a place in your family’s points and miles strategy.

The biggest changes: Hyatt has updated its award pricing, Chase has reduced the Hyatt transfer rate for certain credit cards, and families can now combine Hyatt points between accounts online for free. That last change is especially exciting if you and your spouse or other family members earn points separately!

The key is knowing how to make the most of your points under the new rules.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through why Hyatt remains one of my favorite hotel loyalty programs for families, how to earn and combine points, and what you need to know before booking your next stay.

World of Hyatt Program: A Game-Changer for Rewards Travel

World of Hyatt is one of my favorite hotel loyalty programs because it offers opportunities to get incredible value from points, whether you’re booking a quick family weekend getaway or a bucket-list vacation.

Unlike hotel programs that use fully dynamic award pricing, Hyatt still publishes an award chart, making it easier to plan how many points you’ll need for a stay. And with options ranging from budget-friendly Hyatt Place hotels to luxury resorts and all-inclusive properties, there’s something for just about every type of family trip.

Low Points Redemptions: Stretch Your Travel Budget

One of the biggest reasons I love World of Hyatt is the opportunity to book incredible hotels for significantly fewer points than you might expect.

Hyatt uses an award chart with eight hotel categories, with standard room redemptions starting at just 3,000 points per night at Category 1 properties. That means you could potentially book a five-night family getaway for as little as 15,000 Hyatt points.

In May 2026, Hyatt updated its award chart to include five pricing levels: Lowest, Low, Moderate, Upper, and Top. Depending on the hotel and your travel dates, standard rooms now range from 3,000 to 75,000 points per night.

While some properties require more points than they used to, there are still opportunities to get excellent value, particularly at lower-category hotels.

Some of My Favorite Hyatt Brands for Families

• Hyatt Place: Spacious rooms, often with sofa beds, and complimentary breakfast at many locations.
• Hyatt House: Extended-stay properties with residential-style accommodations, often including kitchens and separate living areas.
• Hyatt Regency: Full-service hotels and resorts with amenities like pools, restaurants, and family-friendly activities.
• Hyatt Ziva: All-inclusive resorts where accommodations, meals, drinks, and many activities are included.

Homes & Hideaways by World of Hyatt

One of Hyatt’s most exciting options for families isn’t a traditional hotel at all.

Homes & Hideaways by World of Hyatt lets you earn and redeem points for professionally managed vacation rentals, including condos, villas, and private homes.

For families who want separate bedrooms, kitchens, and more space to spread out, this can be a fantastic alternative to booking multiple hotel rooms.

I’ve personally used Homes & Hideaways to book a stay at Wailea Ekahi in Maui, and I love that Hyatt gives families another way to use their points for accommodations that better fit their needs.

Unlike traditional Hyatt hotels, Homes & Hideaways properties don’t follow the Category 1–8 award chart. Points pricing varies by property and dates, so it’s important to compare the redemption cost with the cash price before booking.

My tip: Whether you’re booking a hotel room or a vacation rental, always compare the cash price with the points required. Sometimes paying cash and saving your points for a more expensive stay makes more sense.

Transfer Points Easily with Chase Ultimate Rewards®

• You can transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards® directly to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio.
• Popular Chase cards like the Sapphire Preferred® and Sapphire Reserve® make it easy to earn Ultimate Rewards points, which can then be transferred to Hyatt for hotel stays, room upgrades, and more.

One of the easiest ways to earn World of Hyatt points is by transferring points from eligible Chase Ultimate Rewards credit cards. However, as of October 1, 2026, not all Chase cards offer the same transfer ratio.

Here’s how the Hyatt transfer ratios work:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Sapphire Reserve for Business℠: Transfer at a 1:1 ratio, meaning 10,000 Chase points become 10,000 Hyatt points.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Ink Business Preferred®: Transfer at a 4:3 ratio, meaning 10,000 Chase points become 7,500 Hyatt points.

While the reduced transfer rate makes Hyatt redemptions less valuable for some Chase cardholders, there are still opportunities to get excellent value, especially when hotel cash rates are high.

Always check award availability and compare the cash price before transferring Chase points to Hyatt. Transfers are generally final, so you want to make sure you’re getting good value before moving your points.

Combine Hyatt Points with Family and Friends

One of the most exciting World of Hyatt updates for families in 2026 is how much easier it is to combine points.

Previously, transferring Hyatt points between members required submitting a form and waiting for the transfer to be processed. Now, World of Hyatt members can transfer points to one another online for free.

This is especially helpful for couples and families who earn Hyatt points separately but want to combine their balances to book a vacation.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Free transfers: There’s no fee to move Hyatt points between eligible accounts.
• No household requirement: You can share points with family members or friends, even if you don’t live at the same address.
• Account requirements: Both accounts must have been open for at least 60 days.
• Transfer limits: Members can send and receive points up to six times each per calendar year, with monthly limits also applying.

For example, if you have 20,000 Hyatt points and your spouse has 15,000, you can combine them into one account to book a 35,000-point hotel stay.

Before transferring points, find the hotel you want and confirm award availability. Combining points can make booking easier, but it doesn’t guarantee that an award room will be available for your dates.

You can manage points transfers through your World of Hyatt account.

Hyatt Co-Branded Credit Cards

Another way to earn World of Hyatt points is through Hyatt’s two co-branded credit cards issued by Chase: the World of Hyatt Credit Card and the World of Hyatt Business Credit Card.

Both cards allow you to earn Hyatt points directly on eligible purchases and offer additional benefits that can make family travel more rewarding, including opportunities to earn bonus points and work toward elite status. The personal card also offers opportunities to earn free night awards.

If Hyatt is a hotel brand you frequently stay with, these cards may be worth considering. Check the links above for current welcome offers, benefits, and terms.

Hyatt’s Family-Friendly Accommodations: More Room to Relax

When you’re traveling as a family, having enough space to spread out can make a huge difference, especially after a long day of exploring.

One of the reasons I love Hyatt is the variety of accommodations available, from Hyatt Place hotels with sofa beds to Hyatt House properties with kitchens and separate living spaces. Depending on the property, you can also find larger suites and connecting rooms that make traveling with kids or extended family much easier.

Family Rooms and Connecting Rooms

Some Hyatt properties offer connecting rooms, family suites, and special rates when booking a second room for children. Availability, age requirements, and discounts vary by hotel, so it’s worth asking about your options before booking.

If you need connecting rooms or have a larger family, I recommend contacting the hotel directly to confirm the available room configurations and occupancy limits. Don’t assume that booking two rooms automatically guarantees they’ll connect!

Finding the Right Hyatt for Your Family

Beyond the room itself, I always recommend looking at the amenities that will make your stay more comfortable. Complimentary breakfast, a pool, a convenient location, and access to laundry facilities can make a big difference when traveling with kids.

And remember, the hotel that requires the fewest points isn’t necessarily the best value if it doesn’t comfortably accommodate your family.

The Benefits of Status with Hyatt

Another reason I love World of Hyatt is the opportunity to earn extra perks through its loyalty program. Even if you only stay at Hyatt hotels a few times a year, some of these benefits can make family travel more comfortable.

World of Hyatt is free to join and offers three elite status tiers: Discoverist, Explorist, and Globalist.

Member

Anyone can join World of Hyatt for free! Members can earn points on eligible stays, access member rates, and redeem points for hotel nights.

Discoverist

Earned after 10 qualifying nights in a calendar year or automatically with the World of Hyatt personal credit card.

Discoverist benefits include preferred rooms when available, bonus points on eligible stays, complimentary bottled water, and late checkout when available.

This is our current Hyatt status, and I appreciate that even entry-level elite status can add a few conveniences to a family trip.

Explorist

Earned after 30 qualifying nights in a calendar year.

Explorist members receive additional bonus points and access to room upgrades when available, including preferred rooms within the same category. While the benefits aren’t as extensive as Globalist, they can make frequent Hyatt stays more rewarding.

Globalist

Earned after 60 qualifying nights in a calendar year, Globalist is Hyatt’s highest published elite tier and offers some fantastic benefits for families.

These include complimentary breakfast for eligible guests, room upgrades that may include standard suites, waived resort fees on eligible stays, and late checkout at participating properties.

Globalist members can also share certain benefits with friends or family through Hyatt’s Guest of Honor program, allowing others to enjoy Globalist perks on eligible stays.

Of course, earning Globalist status isn’t realistic for every family, especially when you’re planning trips around school calendars and limited vacation time. And that’s okay! You can still get tremendous value from Hyatt points without chasing elite status.

Earning Hyatt Status Beyond Hotel Stays

Hyatt’s co-branded credit cards can help you earn elite status without relying entirely on hotel stays.

• World of Hyatt Credit Card: Includes automatic Discoverist status and opportunities to earn elite qualifying night credits through spending.
• World of Hyatt Business Credit Card: Offers Discoverist status and opportunities to earn elite qualifying night credits through eligible business spending.

Hyatt occasionally offers promotions that can help members earn additional qualifying nights or accelerate their path to elite status, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your World of Hyatt account.

My tip: Don’t feel like you need top-tier hotel status to enjoy the benefits of points and miles. For most families, finding a hotel that fits your needs and booking it at a great value is far more important than chasing elite perks.

Why Hyatt Is Still One of My Favorite Hotel Brands for Families

Hyatt continues to be one of my favorite ways to make family travel more rewarding. From spacious accommodations and vacation rentals to opportunities to book incredible hotels with points, World of Hyatt offers families plenty of ways to stretch their travel budgets without sacrificing comfort or memorable experiences.

And while the program has changed, knowing how to earn, combine, and redeem your points strategically can still open the door to some amazing family vacations. You don’t need to be a points and miles expert to start making this work for your family.

✨ Want help figuring out how to turn your everyday spending into your next family vacation?

My Family Travel Rewards Coach takes the guesswork out of points and miles with personalized guidance based on your travel goals, credit cards, and family travel needs. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to make the most of points you’ve already earned, it’s designed to help you build a strategy that actually works for you.

Ready to make your next family vacation happen? Explore Family Travel Rewards Coach app.

And if you have questions, you can always connect with me on Instagram. I love helping families discover just how much more travel is possible with points and miles!

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  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

The post Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Let me set the scene for you. Eleven people. One trip to Europe. And for seven of them, it was their very first time ever using points and miles to travel.

When my family decided to do a big multigenerational trip to Europe, the task was clear: if we couldn’t make this affordable using points and miles, some of us weren’t going to be able to go. My family has been on points and miles family travel for years, but my parents and my sister’s family of five were starting from scratch. Here I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of how we pulled it off, what we got right, and what I would tell any family that wants to take a first or big trip on points and miles.

Points and miles are possible to learn, even for total beginners, with the right strategy. You do not need to be a frequent flyer or have a huge income to make it work. If your family also wants to travel to Europe on points and miles, I’m here to help. My new Family Travel Rewards Coach app offers personalized plans in less than 15 minutes a day to help you achieve your travel goals. Learn more here, and read on for our own (realistic) success story.

Start by Taking Inventory of What Everyone Already Has

The very first thing I did was ask a lot of questions. Before you can build a points and miles strategy for a group, you have to know what you are working with. For every family traveling, I asked the same things:

• What credit cards do you already have?
• Do you have any points sitting on them right now?
• What is your credit score?
• When did you last open a new card?
• Roughly how much do you spend on a credit card?
• Does anyone own a business or have a side hustle?

That last question matters more than people think, because business cards can seriously accelerate your points earning, and you do not need a big company to qualify. A side hustle, a rental, or freelance work can count. Learn more about qualifying for business cards here.

The answers led us to our starting point. My sister’s family had a small stash, under 50,000 points in total, on one Capital One Venture card and an American Express business card. My parents, on the other hand, were sitting on close to 300,000 points on a Bank of America travel card that they didn’t really know how to use. Taking inventory is what let me build a different plan for each household instead of a one-size-fits-all guess.

Build a Card Strategy for Each Family

Here is the key mindset shift for points and miles for beginners: there is no one size fits all strategy. While there are some cards that are generally valuable for most people, a good strategy is personalized. Someone with excellent credit who has not opened a card in three years is in a great spot for a big welcome bonus. Someone who just opened two cards last month probably needs to wait. And, of course, you want to consider if you’re just building a flexible points stash, or if you’re working towards a trip goal.

Since we knew where we were going and we had only about six months to earn the points we needed for our flights, we had to choose an airline that would offer lower points redemptions. That led us to Virgin Atlantic, which offers saver fares in economy starting at 6,000 points per ticket one way from the East Coast, and 29,000 in business class.

Every major bank transfers to Virgin Atlantic, and they offer family/household points pooling, making it the best choice for us. Keep in mind that Virgin Atlantic does have higher taxes and fees on award flights, so you may want to consider another airline for your own Europe on points and miles trip. However, this was by far the best option for us with little time to earn.

My parents wanted to fly business class, and needed to earn a large welcome offer quickly. So I started them with an American Express Platinum. I would normally never recommend this as a starter card to someone new to this hobby because American Express hierarchy rules make it more strategic to start with the American Express Green, then move to the Gold, then move to the Platinum. However, my parents aren’t planning on staying in this hobby, so the focus was just getting them the most points in the shortest time.

My sister started with one of my favorite beginner cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred, because her family spends a lot on online groceries from Instacart and takeout. Her family also plans to be in this hobby for longer, so I wanted to ensure she had a keeper card.

A few ground rules I always recommend:

• Only put normal spending on the card. Never buy things you would not otherwise buy just to hit a bonus.
• Pay it off in full every month. If you carry a balance, the interest wipes out the value of the points. This only works if you treat the card like a debit card.
• Be patient. The welcome bonus is where the real value is, so do not rush to the next card before you have earned the one in front of you.

How We Booked the Flights to Europe on Points and Miles

Our trip included a land tour in southern Italy, since my dad wanted to see where his family came from. Next, we left Italy for a Mediterranean cruise.

Check every airport near you, not just your home one

We are in the Philadelphia area, but I did not limit myself to PHL. I looked at flights out of Philadelphia, Newark, JFK, DC, and Baltimore, because award availability and pricing can be wildly different from one airport to the next. A short drive or a cheap positioning flight to a different airport can save you a mountain of miles. To map out which airlines even fly the route, I used a free tool called FlightConnections.

Compare the options before you transfer anything

When I priced out economy round trip per person, the difference between programs was huge:

• American: around 87,500 miles, Philadelphia to Naples
• United: around 77,000 miles, Newark to Naples
• Virgin Atlantic: around 24,000 miles, JFK to London, then onward to Naples

Read that last one again. Virgin Atlantic was a fraction of the others. That is the whole game right there. Same ocean, same destination, wildly different price depending on which airline’s miles you use and how you route it. This is why I never just book with the first airline that comes to mind.

We put it to a vote in our group, and Virgin Atlantic won by a landslide. The other reason it was such a smart pick: American Express, Chase, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt all transfer to Virgin Atlantic. That meant almost everyone in our group could get there from whatever flexible points they were earning, instead of being locked into one airline’s currency.

Use free tools to check award availability

Award seats are limited, especially when you need a lot of them at once. Since our flights were almost a year out and not even released yet, I used June of the previous year as a stand-in to get a feel for how many points we would likely need and how available the seats tend to be.

There are paid tools for this, but there are good free ones too, so you do not have to spend money to start searching. Always confirm what you see directly on the airline’s website before you transfer any points, because once you transfer, you usually cannot transfer back. For this trip, I used point.me/amex, which is always free for American Express cardholders, and seats.aero, which has free and paid versions. If you want to use the Pro version of seats.aero, but don’t want to pay for a whole year, just sign up for a month when you’re looking and cancel.

Book one way for flexibility

We always book our flights one way rather than round trip. It gives us maximum flexibility, and it buys some of our family members more time to keep earning points for their return leg. Award pricing is usually the same whether you book one way or round trip, so you rarely lose anything by splitting it up, and you gain a lot of options.

Get Creative: Transfer Partners and Repositioning

Transfer partners are your superpower. Flexible points from banks like Amex, Chase, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt can move to many different airlines. That means you are not stuck. If one airline wants a fortune in miles, you check that bank’s other partners and find the one that prices the same flight far cheaper. That is exactly how we landed on Virgin Atlantic.

I offer free transfer guides for my e-newsletter subscribers. Sign up here, then drop me a line for links.

Repositioning opens up cheaper awards. Sometimes the best deal is not from your home airport at all. Flying yourself to a different city first, called a positioning flight, can unlock much better award space. It sounds advanced, but it is really just being willing to look one step beyond the obvious route.

Booking Our Lodging

Hotels and lodging are another area where you can easily use points and miles. Hyatt in particular is a sweet spot for families and offers locations across Europe, in addition to other well-known chains like Marriott and Hilton. Choice Hotels also has a sizable footprint in Europe.

However, we were doing some unconventional lodging since we were going to be in a very rural area in Italy, and then we immediately got onto a cruise. For Italy, we stayed at Country House Nonna Pina, an agriturismo run by a family that also offers meals with local ingredients made by the owner. We really enjoyed our stay here, and we were able to “erase” the cost using Capital One Miles.

Booking the Cruise

After the land tour, we boarded a ship for a Mediterranean cruise from Italy to Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece, which was another place that the ability to “erase” travel purchases was essential. Certain cards, like the Capital One Venture, let you redeem points for a statement credit, as well as the Bank of America Travel Rewards card my parents already had, and some Air Canada Aeroplan cards.

For a cruise, the best strategy is to only pay the minimum deposit at booking, continue earning points before the final deposit is due, and erase a large portion of it after the final payment hits your statement.

Final Thoughts

Coordinating points and miles travel for eleven people across three households was, I’ll be honest, a lot. But experiencing this trip together as a family made it all worth it. Rewards travel really is for anyone who is willing to learn.

As always, if you have questions or want help figuring out where to start, send me a message on Instagram. I’m also a certified travel advisor, planner, and strategist, and I’d love to take trip planning and booking off of your plate. Fill out my trip planning form and tell me a little about the trip you have in mind, and I’ll be in touch about next steps. Happy travels!

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  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

The post How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11 appeared first on Mari on the Map.

London is easier with kids than most people expect. The biggest museums are free, children ride the buses and the Underground for nothing, and there’s a park every few blocks for the moment when everyone needs to stop walking.

London is big, and the difference between a good day and an exhausting one is usually how much time you spent getting between places instead of being in them. The key to an enjoyable trip is grouping your time by location to avoid hopping around too much in one day.

If you’re trying to figure out the best things to do in London with your family, this is my list of 22, with the family tips and logistics that make each one go more smoothly.

22 Best Things to Do in London With Kids

1. Start With a Guided Tour

Starting with a tour is one of the best things to do in London with kids on your first day, before you do anything else. It changes the rest of the trip. Instead of walking past buildings and checking a map to figure out what they are, you recognize things, and the kids remember places much better when someone has told them a story about them. London especially rewards this, because so much of the city is layered with history that’s invisible if nobody points it out.

There are three good ways to do it, and which one you pick depends mostly on the age of your kids. Book a morning slot whatever you choose. Patience is always highest before lunch.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

This is the one I’d choose with younger children. We like to treat these as our transportation for the day rather than as a tour, so we ride a few stops, get off for a look or a snack, then get back on when legs start to get tired. You cover a lot of ground without anyone having to walk it, with a wonderful view from the top deck.

Walking Tour

A walking tour gives you far more detail and takes you into the smaller streets a bus can’t reach. It’s the better option if your kids can handle a couple of hours on foot with breaks. Pick a shorter route and do it early in the day, when everyone has the most stamina.

River Cruise

A cruise on the Thames is the easiest one to sell to kids, because who doesn’t love a boat ride? You get the whole skyline from the water, everyone is sitting down, and it works well on a first afternoon when the jet lag is still catching up with you.

2. Ride a Red Double Decker Bus

Riding a red double decker bus is one of the simplest things to do in London with children, and you don’t need a tour bus for it. The regular London buses are double deckers, and the front seats on the top deck give you the best view in the city for the price of a normal fare.

Children under 11 ride the buses free at any time, so you’re only paying for the adults. It’s a flat fare no matter how far you go, and the Hopper fare means you can change buses as many times as you like within an hour without paying again.

If you want a route that passes a lot of landmarks, numbers 11, 15 and 24 all do well. Route 15 also runs the old style Routemaster buses on part of its route, which are the ones with the open platform at the back.

One thing that makes all of this easier is sorting out your data before you land. You’ll be checking maps and bus routes constantly in London, so having a connection the moment you step off the plane matters. Try Holafly for an eSIM, which installs before you leave home and switches on when you arrive, so there’s no hunting for a SIM card in an airport with tired kids. Use code MARIHOLAFLY for a discount.

3. See Big Ben and Westminster

Coming up out of Westminster station and finding Big Ben directly in front of you is a good first moment, especially for kids who have only ever seen it in cartoons. It’s bigger than they expect and it’s right there, with no build up.

Walk out onto Westminster Bridge for the view back toward the London Eye, which is the one most people picture when they think of London. The Houses of Parliament run along the river beside it, and the whole stretch is flat and easy with a stroller.

Westminster Abbey is next door if you want to go inside. With younger kids I’d look at it from the outside, explain that this is where the coronations happen, and save the interior for a trip when they’re older.

4. Explore Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is an easy stop because it’s open, flat and full of space to move around. After narrow pavements and busy streets, that matters more than it sounds. The four bronze lions at the base of Nelson’s Column are the highlight of the stop.

One thing worth knowing before they do. You’re meant to stay on the stone bases rather than climb onto the lions themselves. The signs around the square ask people not to climb the statues, and while it isn’t strictly enforced, there are good reasons for it. The lions have been there since 1867 and generations of climbers have worn the bronze thin in places, with cracks along the backs and tails where people use them as a step. They also stand around eleven feet tall, and falls have caused serious injuries.

The stone plinth gets you the same photo without either problem, so that’s where we’d put the kids.

The National Gallery sits along one whole side of the square and it’s free to walk into. With small children I wouldn’t attempt the full collection. Choose two or three paintings ahead of time, find those, and let that be the visit. The gift shop makes a reasonable trade for their cooperation.

There are public toilets and cafes here, which is worth knowing because both are harder to find when you visit London.

5. Watch the Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is free and it’s a thing worth doing once, even though it’s crowded and you’ll spend more time waiting than watching. The uniforms, the band, and the horses are what the kids remember.

It doesn’t run every day, and the schedule changes with the season, so check before you build your morning around it. This is the official Household Division schedule page.

Watching the Changing of the Guard is one of the most typical things to do in London, so get there at least forty-five minutes early if you want a spot at the gates. If you arrive later than that, don’t fight the crowd. Stand along The Mall instead and watch the guards march past on their way in, which is honestly a better view for a short child anyway.

6. Walk Through St James’s Park

The route from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace goes straight through St James’s Park, and it’s a nice 15-minute walk through central London. If you’re doing the Changing of the Guard, you’ll pass through the park anyway, so give yourself some extra time and treat it as a stop rather than just part of the route.

There’s a lake through the middle with a bridge across it that has a great view of the palace. The park is also known for its pelicans, which have lived there since the 1600s when they were given to the king as a gift from a Russian ambassador. They get fed in the afternoon and kids love watching it.

7. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a giant observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames. The full rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you views across central London from the glass capsules. It moves slowly, so there’s no need to wait for it to stop. You simply step on and off while it continues moving.

Book online and choose a timed slot. Queues can be long if you buy tickets at the door, and waiting around with young kids isn’t ideal.

Go on a clear day if you can be flexible, and go late in the afternoon in winter, when it gets dark early and you get the city lit up.

This is one of the only spots in London with consistent air conditioning, so it’s also worth hopping on if you visit during a heat wave.

8. Go Up to Sky Garden for Free

Sky Garden is at the top of a building in the City with a public garden inside and a viewing terrace, and the whole thing is free. You book a slot online in advance and they release tickets a few weeks ahead, so this needs a little planning but no money.

The view takes in the Thames, Tower Bridge and the Shard, and because it’s indoors it works on a day when the weather has ruined everything else. This is one of the best things to do in London with kids that costs nothing at all, there’s no ticket queue and there’s space to sit down.

9. Take a Boat Down the Thames

The Uber Boat river service is proper public transport rather than a sightseeing cruise, which means it’s cheaper and you can use it to actually get somewhere. It runs the length of central London, so you can ride from Westminster all the way east past the whole skyline and get off wherever you’re headed next.

This is one of my favorite things to do in London with kids. They get the fun of a boat ride while you’re also getting from one part of the city to another. Everyone can sit down, and you get a completely different view of London than you would from the Underground.

Sit outside at the back if the weather allows. There is no air conditioning inside.

10. Visit the Tower of London

Of all the paid things to do in London, this is the one I’d spend the money on. It’s a real castle in the middle of the city, nearly a thousand years old, and there’s enough going on inside that kids stay interested for hours.

The Crown Jewels are here, and so are the ravens, which have their own keeper and their own legend about the kingdom falling if they ever leave. The Yeoman Warder tours are included with your ticket and they’re the best part of the visit. The warders are performers as much as guides, and they hold children’s attention better than any audio guide.

Book a timed slot online and go as early as you can. The queue for the Crown Jewels builds through the morning and is at its worst from midday onward.

Children under five are free. Do the Warder tour first while everyone is fresh, then the Crown Jewels, then let the kids run around the walls and the green at the end when nobody wants to concentrate anymore.

11. Walk Across Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is the one people actually picture when they think of things to do in London, and walking across it costs nothing. It’s right beside the Tower, so the two go together naturally in the same day.

If you want more than the walk, the Tower Bridge Exhibition takes you up into the high walkways between the two towers, where there’s a glass floor you can look straight down through at the traffic and the river.

Ask about the Tower Bridge Cat Trail when you enter. Kids can collect stamps in an activity booklet or passport by finding Bella the Tower Bridge Cat along the high-level walkways and engine rooms.

The bridge still lifts for tall ships, and the schedule is published on the Tower Bridge website. If you can time your visit to catch a lift, it’s worth planning around.

12. Visit Borough Market

Borough Market is my favorite food stop in London with kids. It’s a proper working market rather than a tourist one, it has been on the same site in some form for around a thousand years, and it’s under a railway arch so it works in the rain.

What makes it good with children is that you’re not sitting still in a restaurant waiting for food. You walk through, everyone points at what they want, and you build lunch from six different stalls. There are samples everywhere, which handles the problem of a child who says they don’t like something they have never tried.

Turnips at Borough Market, which serves fresh, whole strawberries in a cup and generously coated with warm, silky melted Belgian milk chocolate from a fountain machine, is absolutely worth the hype. The lines are not as long as you see on TikTok. It costs around £8.50 to £9.50 per cup, but your whole family can share one. We got two, and it was a lot. You can find them at Stall 43.

Go on a weekday if you can. Saturday is shoulder to shoulder and harder with a stroller or a small child who wants to look at things.

13. Visit the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is free and it’s the one I’d put first if you only do one museum in London. The building itself gets a reaction before you’ve seen a single exhibit, with a huge vaulted entrance hall and a blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling. There are even huge dinosaur fossil recreations outside before you enter.

The dinosaur gallery is what most kids come for, and it’s the busiest part of the museum, so go there first and work backward through everything else. The rest of the collection is enormous and you’re not going to see it all, which is fine. Because there’s no ticket, there’s no pressure to get your money’s worth.

Check the website the day before, because free timed tickets are sometimes needed during busy periods.

14. Visit the Science Museum

The Science Museum is directly next door to the Natural History Museum, which makes South Kensington the easiest area in London for a family day. This is the better of the two for kids who need to touch things rather than look at them.

Wonderlab is the interactive gallery and it’s the one part of the museum you pay for. It’s worth it if your kids are between 7 and 14 years old. There are live demonstrations, things to pull and push and set off, and it holds a wide age range at the same time, which isn’t easy to find.

If your children love interactive museums, this is the one you should choose!

15. Visit the British Museum

The British Museum is free, and it’s so big that going in without a plan is a mistake with children. The building alone is worth walking into for the Great Court, which is a covered courtyard with a glass roof in the middle of the museum.

With kids, I’d go straight to the Egyptian galleries. The mummies are the thing they’ll talk about afterward, and the Rosetta Stone is on the way. Do that, see anything else you happen to walk past, and leave before anyone gets tired of it.

This deserves its own morning rather than being added onto the end of a full day. It is a fifteen minute walk from Covent Garden if you want to pair the two.

16. Play at the Diana Memorial Playground

This is the best free playground in central London, in Kensington Gardens, and it’s built around a full sized wooden pirate ship sitting in an enormous sand pit. There are also teepees, a sensory trail and plenty of space to run.

One thing worth knowing is that adults are only allowed in if they arrive with a child, which is a safeguarding rule and also means the whole place is genuinely built for kids rather than shared with everyone else.

It gets busy in the afternoon and they cap the number of people inside, so there can be a wait to get in. From the playground you can walk on through Hyde Park to the Serpentine and rent a pedal boat.

17. Visit London Zoo

London Zoo is in Regent’s Park. It opened in 1828 and is one of the oldest scientific zoos in the world, and a lot of it has been rebuilt in recent years, so it doesn’t feel like an old zoo.

The walk-through enclosures are the parts kids talk about afterward, where you’re inside the space with the animals rather than looking at them from behind glass. Give it most of a day rather than squeezing it into an afternoon.

Buy tickets online in advance. They’re cheaper than at the gate and it saves you the queue.

18. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden was London’s fruit and vegetable market for around 300 years before becoming the area it is today. The original glass-roofed market building is still there, with the Apple Market stalls inside and shops and restaurants around it. The whole area is pedestrianized, which is especially nice when you’re exploring with kids and don’t have to worry about traffic.

There are street performers in the piazza throughout most of the day. They audition for their spots, so there are usually some really good acts, and the kids can easily spend half an hour watching a show. You’ll also often find classical musicians playing in the lower courtyard while people eat.

The London Transport Museum is here too. Kids can climb on old buses, trams and Tube carriages, follow a stamp trail through the galleries, and try the Tube train simulator. Adult tickets are valid for a whole year and children go free, so it can be a good option if you’re looking for something to do with kids in central London.

Covent Garden is about a 10-minute walk from Trafalgar Square, so it’s easy to add to a day exploring Westminster.

If it starts raining, this is where to go. The market building is covered, the Transport Museum is indoors, and you can get an entire afternoon out of the two without going back out into it.

19. See Platform 9¾ and the Harry Potter Studio Tour

If you have a Harry Potter fan in the family, there are two versions of this and they’re very different commitments.

Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross

This is the quick one. There’s a luggage trolley set into the wall at King’s Cross station, halfway through, with a staff member handing out scarves and helping with the photo. It’s free, it takes about fifteen minutes including the queue, and there’s a shop next to it. If you’re passing through the station anyway, it’s an easy win.

Warner Bros Studio Tour

This is the full version, and it’s where the films were actually made. The sets are still standing, including the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, and you walk through them. It’s outside London, it takes most of a day including the travel, and tickets sell out weeks ahead.

If you have a child who has read the books, this is the kind of thing you build a trip around rather than fit into one. Book the studio tour before you book anything else, including your flights if you can.

20. Take a Day Trip to Richmond

Richmond is about twenty minutes from central London by train, but it feels like a different place entirely, more like a village on the Thames than part of the city. There’s a huge deer park with actual wild deer, a riverside to walk along, and a much slower pace than you’ll find in central London.

If anyone in your family watches Ted Lasso, Richmond will be especially fun to visit. Many parts of the show were filmed here, including the pub that appears as the Crown & Anchor. The real pub, The Prince’s Head, is right on Richmond Green and you can actually go inside.

If you have more than three days in London, this is one of the first additions I’d make to your list of things to do in London with kids. I have a full guide to spending a day in Richmond with kids.

21. Spend a Day at Kew Gardens

Kew is a short hop from Richmond, so you could pair the two if you had a long day, though each is comfortably a day on its own. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s enormous, with glasshouses full of plants you won’t see anywhere else.

For kids the draws are the Treetop Walkway, which puts you up at canopy height above the trees, and the Children’s Garden, which is one of the biggest play spaces in London. It is truly massive, and your kids could easily spend the entire day there. Each section has different things to do and a new type of play apparatus.

Kew also puts on a Christmas light trail through the gardens after dark in November and December. It’s a lovely option if you’re visiting London with kids in winter. If you’re planning a Christmas trip to London, I have a full guide with everything you need to know.

22. Take the Boat to Greenwich

Greenwich is the one I’d do if you want a day that feels different from central London, and getting there is half the fun because you can take the river boat all the way down instead of the Tube. The Cutty Sark is a real tea clipper you can walk underneath, which is a strange and brilliant thing to see from below.

Once in Greenwich, the National Maritime Museum is free and has plenty for children. Up the hill in Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory lets kids stand on the Prime Meridian with a foot in each hemisphere, and the view back toward the city from the top of the park is beautiful.

When to Visit London With Kids

London is great all year, and the free museums mean a rainy or cold trip (as London often is) is never a wasted one. But the seasons are different enough to be worth thinking about when you’re planning the best things to do in London with your family.

Spring

April through June is the best window for a family trip. The days are long, the parks are at their best, and the weather is as good as London gets. Prices haven’t climbed to summer levels yet and the crowds are manageable.

Summer

July and August are the warmest and by far the busiest. Attractions sell out, hotel prices climb, and the museums are packed. Heat is also a real consideration now in a way it wasn’t ten years ago, and most of London has no air conditioning, which catches American families off guard. Book everything ahead and use the free museums as your cooling break in the middle of the day, though check first which ones are actually air conditioned. Keep in mind that London AC doesn’t get as cold as American AC; you’re looking at a low of 74℉ with the AC as low as it goes.

Fall

September and October are underrated. It’s still mild, the city gets noticeably quieter once British schools go back, and hotel prices drop. If your kids aren’t in school yet or you have a fall break, this is probably the best value trip of the year. And if you happen to be there in October, you’ll catch all the Halloween decorations around the city.

Winter

November through March means short days and a lot of grey, but the free museums matter more than ever and the city does Christmas seriously from early November. The lights go up along the main shopping streets and stay until January. If you’re looking for things to do in London with kids in December, I have a full guide to Christmas in London with kids.

Final Thoughts

If you’re working out the best things to do in London with kids, the single thing that will improve your trip most is grouping by area. London is big enough that you don’t want to spend most of your day going between places instead of enjoying them.

A simple structure that works for us when we’re picking things to do in London with kids: one big attraction, one museum, one park, and one food stop. Repeat that each day and you’ll see the city without anyone melting down halfway through the afternoon.

If you want these best things to do in London with kids laid out day by day instead of as a list, I have a full London with kids 3 day itinerary.

If you have any questions, send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips. I’m also a travel advisor, and I’d love to help you plan and book your London trip! To get started, please fill out my trip planning form and tell me a little about the trip you have in mind, and I’ll be in touch about next steps. Happy travels!

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  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

The post 22 Best Things to Do in London With Kids appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Christmas in London is a great option for a family trip over the holidays. The season runs about seven weeks, so you’re not forced into the expensive dates, and a lot of the best parts cost nothing. Ice rinks in courtyards, markets along the river, and lights on every main shopping street.

There’s one thing you need to know before you book, and it’s the part most guides leave out. London closes on Christmas Day. Not partially. The Underground does not run, the buses do not run, most attractions are shut, and so are most restaurants. If Christmas Day is in the middle of your trip, you need to plan for it.

Christmas in Europe has been on my travel list for a while, and London keeps coming up every time I look into a holiday trip. I’ve spent a lot of time researching what the city is like at Christmas, so I pulled together this guide with this year’s dates and prices, plus what needs booking ahead.

When to Go and What Is Open

Most of the big events for Christmas in London run from early or mid November to early January, so you have a long window.

Here are the 2026 season dates.

• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park runs November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
• Christmas at Kew runs November 13, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
• The ice rink at Somerset House opens November 11, 2026 and runs to January 10, 2027.
• The lights on the main shopping streets go up in early November and stay into January.

That means you don’t have to travel the week before Christmas to get the full experience of Christmas in London. Late November and early December give you the same lights and the same markets with smaller crowds and cheaper flights and hotels. If your kids aren’t in school yet, or you can pull them out for a few days, this is the better trip.

The last two weekends before Christmas are the busiest of the year. Everything is bookable and everything sells out.

What Christmas Day Actually Looks Like in London

This is the one part of Christmas in London that catches people out, so plan around it.

On December 25 there is no Underground, no bus service and no trains. Not a reduced schedule. Nothing. It’s been this way for decades, but check the TfL website before you travel in case anything changes. Most museums, shops and attractions are closed, and so are most restaurants. Winter Wonderland is closed. The ice rinks are closed.

What’s open is your hotel, taxis and rideshares at high prices, and your feet. A lot of hotels do a Christmas lunch, and they book up months ahead, so if you want one you need to reserve it when you book the room.

The upside is that London on Christmas morning is empty in a way it never is otherwise. You can walk down the middle of streets that are normally impossible. Families who plan for it end up liking that day. Families who assumed they’d go to a museum do not.

Boxing Day on December 26 is the opposite. The sales start, the shops are packed, transport runs a limited service and most attractions reopen. If you only have one day for shopping, this isn’t it.

The simplest fix is to book a hotel within walking distance of somewhere you want to be on Christmas Day, and to accept that day as a slow one.

The Christmas Lights

The lights are the best part of Christmas in London, and they’re completely free.

Oxford Street and Regent Street switch on in early November and run into January. Regent Street does the large angel installations that arch over the road, and they’re the ones people photograph. Carnaby Street does something different every year and it’s usually the most fun of the three.

Covent Garden puts up an enormous tree and hangs giant baubles through the market building. Seven Dials, just north of Covent Garden, is worth the five-minute walk.

The tree in Trafalgar Square has been a gift from Norway every year since 1947, as thanks for British support during the Second World War. It goes up in early December. It’s a simple tree compared to the ones in the shopping streets, and the story behind it is the reason to go and see it.

The department store windows are the other free thing worth doing. Fortnum and Mason, Liberty and Selfridges all do proper displays, and they’re within walking distance of each other.

Go after dark, which in December means from about four in the afternoon.

London Christmas Markets

London Christmas markets have their own character. They’re smaller than the ones in Germany, France and Austria, and they’re spread through the city rather than filling one big square, which means you come across them while you’re doing other things. That suits a family trip. You get an hour of lights and hot chocolate on your way somewhere else instead of building a whole day around it.

Most of them open in early to mid November and run until just after Christmas or into the first week of January. Nearly all of them close on Christmas Day. They’re free to walk through, so you can see several in an evening and only spend money if you want to.

Winter Wonderland Market

The largest Christmas market in London is inside Winter Wonderland, along with the rides, the ice rink and everything else. It’s the only one on this list you pay to enter, and it’s big enough that it gets its own section further down.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

The Southbank Centre Winter Market runs along the Queen’s Walk beside the Thames, between the London Eye and Waterloo Bridge, and it’s a line of alpine chalets with lights above them and the river on one side. The walkway is flat and wide the whole way, so there’s room for kids to move and no crowding into a narrow lane.

It leans more toward food than gifts, which is a plus with children. Expect hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows, cheese toasties and mulled wine for the adults. Go after dark so you get the lights reflecting on the water.

Winter by the River

This one is at London Bridge City, on the south side of the river between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, near HMS Belfast. The setting is the reason to go. You’re looking straight across at Tower Bridge and the Tower of London with everything lit up.

It’s smaller and calmer than Southbank, with wooden cabins selling gifts and food from local makers. If you’re already doing the Tower of London that day, this is the natural place to end up in the evening.

Christmas in Leicester Square

Leicester Square gets a market with stalls, food and live performances, and there’s usually a rides area alongside it. It’s in the middle of the West End, so it works well before or after a show, and it’s a short walk from Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden.

This is the busiest and loudest of them. With younger kids, go earlier in the day rather than in the evening.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is less a market than the whole area dressed for Christmas. There are stalls through the market building, an enormous tree in the piazza, and giant baubles hanging from the roof. The street performers keep going all through December.

It’s free, it’s covered, and it’s a great place to be when it starts raining.

Trafalgar Square

The market here is small, but it sits next to the Norwegian tree and there are carol singers most evenings in December. It costs nothing, the National Gallery is right there and free if you need to warm up, and it works as a stop rather than a destination.

Spitalfields and Borough Market

Both are permanent markets that decorate for Christmas rather than pop-up Christmas markets. Borough is the better one with kids because it’s all food and everything is sampleable. Spitalfields is more about gifts from independent makers.

If Christmas markets are the whole reason for your trip, Germany and Austria go deeper, and I’ve written about the best Christmas markets in Europe. But London gives you markets plus everything else the city does in December, which is a good trade with kids.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is the biggest single event of Christmas in London and the one your kids will ask about. It fills a large section of Hyde Park with a fairground, a Christmas market, an ice rink and more than 100 rides and attractions. It runs on the dates listed above and is closed on Christmas Day.

You need a timed entry ticket booked in advance, and entry is staggered by the hour. Here’s the useful part: Off-Peak time slots cost one pound, and in November most of them fall Monday to Thursday. Look for the green slots when you book. It’s by far the cheapest way in, and weekday afternoons in November are also the quietest it gets all season.

Entry doesn’t include the rides. You pay for those separately or buy one of the ride passes, and with kids the costs add up quickly. Work out your budget before you walk in, because everything inside is designed to be tempting.

The last two weekends before Christmas are the busiest of the whole run. If those are your only dates, book the earliest entry slot you can get.

Christmas at Kew

Christmas at Kew is a light trail through Kew Gardens after dark. The 2026 dates are listed above.

Tickets start at £29.50 for adults and £20 for children, while children under four go free. Entry slots start at 4:20pm, and the gardens close at 10pm, except on Christmas Eve, when they close at 9pm. Advance booking is essential.

It’s an outdoor walking trail in December, so dress everyone properly. And, as always when visiting London, remember to bring umbrellas and waterproof clothing.

Kew is in southwest London, close to Richmond, so it pairs well if you’re already heading that way. I have a full guide to spending a day in Richmond with kids.

Ice Skating

There are outdoor rinks all over London in December and they’re one of the easier things to do with kids.

• Somerset House is the one people picture, in a courtyard with a tall tree in the middle of it. Sessions are about forty-five minutes and they sell out, so book ahead.
• Hampton Court Palace has a rink set in front of the palace, which is the prettiest setting of the lot and worth the trip out if you’re going to Kew or Richmond anyway.
• Winter Wonderland has the largest outdoor rink in the country, though you need a Winter Wonderland ticket to reach it.
• Leicester Square has one right in the middle of everything, which is the easiest to fit into a day you’re already spending in the West End.

Every rink is closed on Christmas Day.

Pantomime

Panto is a very British Christmas tradition that doesn’t really exist in the United States. It’s a comic stage show based on a fairy tale, the audience shouts at the actors, and there’s always a man playing an older woman. Theatres all over London put one on in December.

It’s funny, completely over-the-top, and aimed squarely at children. If you want to experience something during Christmas in London that’s properly British rather than just Christmassy, this is it.

What to Pack

Christmas in London is cold and damp rather than freezing, usually somewhere in the forties Fahrenheit. It rains and it gets dark around four in the afternoon.

Bring waterproof coats rather than heavy ones, warm layers underneath, hats and gloves, and shoes that handle wet pavement. If you’re doing Kew or an ice rink, everyone needs proper warm layers because you’re outdoors for hours after dark.

Most indoor places are heated, so layers you can take off matter more than one thick coat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Christmas in London worth it?

Yes, particularly if you go in late November or the first half of December. The lights, the markets and the ice rinks are all up, the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower than the week before Christmas.

What is open in London on Christmas Day?

Very little. There is no Underground, no bus service and no train service on December 25. Most attractions, shops and restaurants are closed. Many hotels serve Christmas lunch but book up months in advance. Taxis and rideshares run at higher prices.

When do the Christmas lights go up in London?

The main displays on Oxford Street and Regent Street switch on in early November and stay up into January. The Trafalgar Square tree goes up in early December.

When do the Christmas markets start in London?

Most open in early to mid November and run until just after Christmas or into early January. Winter Wonderland opens November 19, 2026 and Christmas at Kew opens November 13, 2026.

How many days do you need in London at Christmas?

Four or five works well. That gives you two days for the regular London sights, one evening for the lights, and one for Kew or Winter Wonderland. If Christmas Day falls in the middle, add a day.

Do Americans need anything to enter the UK besides a passport?

Yes. US citizens now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit the UK, and that includes babies and kids. It costs £20 per person and you apply through the official UK ETA app or on the UK government website. It usually takes a few minutes, but give yourself at least three working days before your flight in case yours needs extra review. Your ETA is linked to the passport you apply with and lasts two years or until that passport expires, so if you renew anyone’s passport before the trip, apply with the new one. Only use the official app or gov.uk, since other websites charge a lot more for the same thing.

Final Thoughts

Christmas in London is an easy trip to like. So much of it is free, the season runs for seven weeks so you’re not locked into the expensive dates, and the whole city takes it seriously.

Plan around Christmas Day, book Kew and the ice rinks before you go, and go in late November or early December if you can choose. For the rest of your days in the city, I have a London with kids 3 day itinerary and a list of the 22 best things to do in London with kids, and most of them work just as well in December. If you’re looking for the best Christmas markets in Europe for families, I have a guide for that, too.

One more thing. I’m now a travel advisor with Fora, which means I can help with the actual planning and booking, not just the research. If you’ve ever wanted to ask where to stay, whether a hotel is worth it, or how to book something with points, that’s what I do now. And because you know me, you know I’ll look at cash, points and miles, or a combination of the two, depending on what gets you the most value.

If Christmas in London is on your list, or anything else is, fill out my Travel Planning Inquiry Form and we can plan it together.

For more family trips and points tips, find me on Instagram, and feel free to send me a DM anytime. I’m always happy to help other families travel more.

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  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

The post Magical Christmas in London With Kids: What to Do and Book Early appeared first on Mari on the Map.

I’ve said it so many times, but it’s worth saying again: Portugal is the most underrated country for families in Europe. And while most families who do visit are busy planning their Lisbon itinerary or counting down the days to the Algarve beaches, northern Portugal is sitting up there quietly being spectacular. We’re talking cobblestoned riverfront cities, wild national parks where horses roam free, terraced vineyards dropping straight into a UNESCO-listed river valley, and some of the warmest hospitality in all of Europe. Oh, and the food? Amazing!

If you’re planning a family trip to Portugal, you need to consider heading north, with this itinerary as your guide. Three days, three very different experiences: Porto with kids, the Douro Valley with kids, and Peneda-Gerês National Park, all designed for families. Let’s go.

Already planning a bigger Portugal adventure? Don’t miss my guides to Sintra, Belém, and Lagos or explore all my Portugal posts here.

How to Get to Northern Portugal

Most international flights land in Lisbon (LIS). It’s the main hub and where most transatlantic routes touch down. The good news is that getting to northern Portugal from Lisbon is easy. Here’s how each option stacks up for families.

Fly Direct into Porto (OPO) if You Can

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto is the gateway to northern Portugal and more routes are serving it directly every year, including some transatlantic options. If you can find a good route, landing in Porto means you skip the Lisbon leg entirely and arrive exactly where you need to be.

Train from Lisbon

The Alfa Pendular express train covers Lisbon to Porto in under 3 hours. Seats are assigned, the ride is smooth, kids can move around, and the Portuguese countryside rolling past the window is absolutely beautiful. You can book up to 60 days in advance. Promo fares start around €10 one way, regular tickets run €25–35. You’ll arrive at Campanhã station; a quick 4-minute connecting train (included in your ticket) drops you at São Bento in the heart of the city.

Bus from Lisbon

Rede Expressos and FlixBus both run Lisbon to Porto routes throughout the day, with tickets from around €8–20. The journey takes about 3.5 hours. It’s comfortable enough, but seats are more cramped than on the train, so it’s worth evaluating whether this is a good option with little ones who need room to move.

Car: The Most Flexible Option for Families

Here’s the honest truth: if you’re doing Porto, Gerês, AND the Douro Valley (which this itinerary does), you will need a car for at least part of the trip. Peneda-Gerês National Park has no practical public transit access, and the Douro Valley is best explored slowly with the freedom to stop every five minutes because the views demand it. The drive from Lisbon to Porto is about 3 hours on the A1 motorway with roughly €22 in tolls each way.

PRO TIP: Take the train from Lisbon to Porto and see the city on foot for Day 1, then pick up a rental car on Day 2 when you head out to the park and valley. You skip the Porto parking headaches entirely and still have full freedom a car brings when you need it.

Best Time to Visit Northern Portugal with Kids

Northern Portugal has good travel windows across most of the year, but the timing matters depending on what you want to do, especially if river beaches in Gerês are on the list.

May–June is the sweet spot for families. Temperatures sit around 68–77°F, there’s plenty of sunshine, and the crowds are noticeably lighter than peak summer. The Douro Valley is green and lush, Gerês is beautiful, and you’re not competing with July and August prices. June also brings Porto’s famous Festa de São João on June 23rd, a huge street festival that older kids will love.

July–August is peak season. Warm and sunny, great for the river beaches in Gerês, but the Douro Valley can get very hot: temperatures in the valley easily reach 100°F in summer, which is tough with little ones. Expect higher prices and more crowds everywhere.

September–October is harvest season in the Douro, and it’s a special time to visit. Wineries host harvest events, special dinners, and tastings throughout the season, and fall colors make trails especially scenic. September still feels like summer in Porto. October cools down and gets quieter: good for prices, but you won’t be sunbathing or swimming in the rivers.

November–March is rainy and cool in Porto and Gerês. Porto is one of the wettest cities in southern Europe, with most of the rain falling in winter months. These months are not as ideal for an outdoor-heavy itinerary like this one.

Bottom line for families: Aim for May–June or September. You get good weather, manageable crowds, and the Douro at its best.

Day 1 – Things to Do in Porto With Kids

If northern Portugal has a front door, Porto is it. This city is genuinely one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, a place where every cobblestoned alley leads to something worth photographing, every viewpoint makes you stop mid-sentence, and every café smells like espresso and warm pastry. The best part is the pace is relaxed, and the Portuguese adore children, so you’ll have an easy time here with kids.

Morning: Palácio de Cristal Gardens & the Ribeira Waterfront

Start your Porto morning at the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: a hilltop park with sweeping views over the Douro and peacocks that roam completely free. Your kids will absolutely lose their mind in the best possible way. Let them run, let them chase (gently!), take approximately 400 photos.

From there, make your way down to the Ribeira waterfront. This is Porto’s most iconic stretch: colorful houses stacked up the steep hillside, the Douro sparkling below, traditional rabelo boats bobbing in the water, and the Dom Luís I Bridge arching overhead. It’s exactly as gorgeous as every photo you’ve ever seen, and it’s even better in person.

Afternoon: Cross the Bridge & Take to the River

Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge on foot. The upper deck gives you stunning views of both Porto and the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river. Kids will love “being up there “climbing” the bidge; you’ll love the views. Cross over into Gaia and wander the port wine lodges lining the riverbank. The barrel-filled cellars are interesting to walk through, and older kids will find the history of how port wine is made more engaging than they expect.

Don’t miss: Book a Six Bridges Cruise on the Douro, about an hour on the water with views of the entire city. Kids love being on a boat and parents love that everyone is sitting down for a full hour.

Dinner in the Ribeira

The Ribeira neighborhood is full of great dinner spots. Order a francesinha: Porto’s legendary sandwich loaded with meat, melted cheese, and a deeply savory beer-and-tomato sauce that is almost mandatory to eat. Portuguese restaurants are relaxed and child-friendly.

Tips From a Parent: Porto’s cobblestones and hills are real. Bring a baby carrier instead of a stroller for hilly sections, you’ll be grateful by lunchtime. Make sure everyone wears sturdy walking shoes.

Day 2 – Northern Portugal’s Wild Side: Peneda-Gerês National Park

About 90 minutes from Porto, Peneda-Gerês is Portugal’s only national park, and one of the most stunning corners of the entire Iberian Peninsula. Ancient oak forests, granite mountain villages, crystal-clear river beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife roaming free. For families, it is pure, unfiltered magic. Pick up your rental car this morning before leaving the city.

Morning: Forest Walks & Mountain River Beaches

Head to the Mata da Albergaria area for an easy, well-marked walk through one of the oldest surviving oak forests in Portugal. The paths are manageable for little legs and the light through the ancient trees is something else entirely. If you’re visiting between May and October, the praias fluviais aka river beaches, are the main event. Crystal-clear mountain water, shallow spots perfect for little swimmers, and room for bigger kids to splash around for hours. Pack swimsuits no matter what the forecast says.

Afternoon: Ancient Villages & Wild Horses

Make your way to Soajo or Lindoso, two of the most magical villages in the park, both famous for their espigueiros, ancient stone grain stores raised on stilts that look like something out of a fairytale.

Eyes on the hills: The Garrano, a breed of wild pony native to Gerês, roams freely through the mountains. Spotting a herd is a travel moment that stops everyone in their tracks. Make it a game with the kids: whoever sees one first gets to choose dessert!

If you can, stay overnight near Gerês rather than driving back to Porto. Waking up in the mountains is worth it, and it sets you up perfectly for Day 3.

Day 3 – Douro Valley With Kids: Where to Go & Where to Stay

Here’s something nobody tells you about the Douro Valley: it’s not just for wine lovers. Yes, the terraced vineyards are jaw-dropping. Yes, the river views are the kind that make you stop mid-sentence. But the Douro Valley with kids is wildly underrated, and incredibly fun to navigate by car, too.

Morning: The N222 Scenic Drive

Route yourself along the N222, regularly listed among the most beautiful roads in the world, and for once that is not an exaggeration. Wind along the river, pull over constantly (you will want to), and stop at a quinta (wine estate) along the way. Many offer family-friendly experiences: wine tastings for the adults, grape juice and a wander through the vineyards for the kids.

Where to Stay: Six Senses Douro Valley

If your budget allows for one splurge on this trip, make it Six Senses Douro Valley. Set in a beautifully restored 19th-century manor house high on a hill in Samodães, overlooking terraced vineyards and the river below, this place is one of the most stunning hotels in all of Portugal, and it’s family-friendly.

The property has 10 acres of woodland with trails for exploring, an organic garden to wander through. Activities include kayaking, mountain biking, tree climbing, stand-up paddleboarding, cycling tours, and river boat trips. There’s no formal kids’ club, but there’s an activity hut stocked with toys and games for all ages, plus babysitting on request.

Before Heading Home: Douro Historic Train

If your schedule allows, squeeze in the historic train ride between Pinhão and Régua before heading back to Porto. It’s under an hour, the valley views from the windows are extraordinary. Its a low effort, very high reward way to close out the trip.

Practical Tips for Families in Northern Portugal

• Rent a car. There’s no other way to reach Gerês or explore the Douro Valley without one. Book car seats in advance from your rental company: don’t assume they’ll be available at the desk. Or better yet, travel with your own.
• Pack layers. Northern Portugal, especially Gerês, can be cool and misty even in summer. Light rain jackets are your best friend.
• The Portuguese are amazing with children. Seriously. Strangers will come over to say hello to your kids in restaurants, shop owners will offer them sweets. It makes family travel feel so easy and warm.
• Build in downtime. Especially for little kids. Porto lends itself beautifully to a slow lunch and a mid-afternoon rest before hitting the next thing. Don’t try to rush it.
• Pastéis de nata are mandatory. Warm, flaky, custard-filled, and available everywhere. Your kids will be obsessed by day two.
• Best time to visit: Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal. Summer is warmer, and the river beaches are at their best, but also busier. The park and valley are stunning year-round.

Final Thoughts

Northern Portugal is so underrated, and you will instantly fall in love with this area. Porto is easy to navigate, endlessly beautiful, and great with kids of any age. Gerês gives out-of-this world nature, along with a break from the city. And the Douro Valley is a stunning, low-key way to wrap up a weekend that somehow manages to fit in a city, a national park, and a wine region.

Three days is a solid introduction, but northern Portugal also fits great into a longer Portugal trip. If you have 10 to 15 days, you can pair this itinerary with Lisbon, a day trip to Sintra, Belém, and a few days in the Algarve, and you’ve got one of the best family trips Europe has to offer.

If you have questions while planning, feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to help other families plan their travels.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | Portugal

  Northern Portugal With Kids: Porto, the Douro Valley & Gerês: Your Perfect Family Weekend

  ByMari August 16, 2026August 16, 2026

  I’ve said it so many times, but it’s worth saying again: Portugal is the most underrated country for families in Europe. And while most families who do visit are busy planning their Lisbon itinerary or counting down the days to the Algarve beaches, northern Portugal is sitting up there quietly being spectacular. We’re talking cobblestoned riverfront cities, wild national parks where horses roam free, terraced vineyards dropping straight into a UNESCO-listed river valley, and some of the warmest hospitality in all of Europe. Oh, and the food? Amazing!

  If you’re planning a family trip to Portugal, you need to consider heading north, with this itinerary as your guide. Three days, three very different experiences: Porto with kids, the Douro Valley with kids, and Peneda-Gerês National Park, all designed for families. Let’s go.

  Already planning a bigger Portugal adventure? Don’t miss my guides to Sintra, Belém, and Lagos or explore all my Portugal posts.

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  Abroad | Asia | Central America | Costa Rica | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Ireland | Japan | Portugal

  Best Countries for Family Travel in 2026: 5 Kid-Friendly Picks

  ByMari April 30, 2026May 3, 2026

  If you’re dreaming up your family’s next international trip, you’re in the right place. Planning travel with kids can feel overwhelming at first, but the right destination makes everything click into place. This list of the best countries for family travel is based on my experience and what’s trending for 2026, but these picks work any year. Think easy arrivals, minimal stress, and days filled with the kind of experiences your kids will actually be excited about.

The post Northern Portugal With Kids: Porto, the Douro Valley & Gerês: Your Perfect Family Weekend appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Living up to the name “Dreams” is kind of a tall order, but TL;DR, Dreams Playa Esmeralda did it. I’m still dreaming about it, and I think it might be somewhere we plan an annual trip to… it’s that good! Located in the Dominican Republic, this new Hyatt all-inclusive property had it all: beautiful beaches, lovely pools, fantastic staff, and good food and drinks.

Of course, no resort is perfect, so I’ll spill the tea on some areas of improvement as well. This post covers everything you need to know before you go: how the resort works, what it actually costs, what to do with kids, and whether it lives up to the hype. If you are searching for a family all-inclusive that also gives the adults room to breathe, read on.

What Is Dreams Playa Esmeralda?

Dreams Playa Esmeralda is a new all-inclusive resort on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, in the Miches region. It opened in late 2025 and is part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection, which means you can book it with World of Hyatt points. The sister property, Secrets Playa Esmeralda, sits right next door and is adults-only. As a Dreams guest, you have access to both.

One thing to know upfront: when people search “dreams playa esmeralda punta cana,” they are usually referring to the closest major airport, which is Punta Cana International (PUJ). The resort is actually in Miches, about 90 minutes from that airport. It is worth factoring in when you plan, but the drive is easy and the area is genuinely beautiful, far removed from the busier resort strips. You can easily set up a transfer from the airport through the resort, as we did. The ride is so easy and peaceful that most of us fell asleep both directions!

The setting is unlike anything we have seen at a Caribbean resort. The beach is largely untouched, the water is clear, and there are almost no other properties in sight. For families used to crowded resort beaches, it is a real change of pace.

Getting to Dreams Playa Esmeralda

Fly into Punta Cana International Airport and arrange a transfer from there. The resort can organize transportation through their partner Amstar. Private transfers and group transfers are available. Whatever you book, plan for about 90 minutes on the road.

My advice: book your transfer before you arrive. With kids and luggage, this is not the moment to improvise at the airport.

Booking Dreams Playa Esmeralda on Points

Dreams Playa Esmeralda is part of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, which means it is bookable with World of Hyatt points. It sits in Category B, so standard rooms on off-peak nights start at 17,000 points for two, and about 32,000 for four at the all-inclusive rate, with premium suites on peak nights running up to 46,000. Considering the all-inclusive rate includes meals, drinks, and activities, the value here is real.

If you’re building your Hyatt points strategy, read about why Hyatt is my favorite hotel brand for family travel and all-inclusive properties like this one are a big part of that. When your room covers food and drinks for the whole family, the points redemption math gets even better. My boys especially loved the virgin piña coladas!

The Rooms

Dreams Playa Esmeralda has 500 rooms and suites, many of which are swim-out, with direct access to the pool from your terrace. The rooms are bright, modern, and well designed, with plush bedding, spacious bathrooms with rain showers and double vanities, and a Bluetooth speaker system. Connecting suite options are available for larger groups, which is worth asking about when you book.

If you are considering the Preferred Club upgrade, it gets you butler service, personalized check-in, and access to exclusive pool and lounge areas including the Windows restaurant for a la carte breakfast and lunch. We went with this option, as we were traveling for my birthday, and our personal butler, Angelo, was very attentive. It felt a little indulgent to use his services, which included unpacking our room, but he was insistent that we should rely on him. His services included 24/7 chat service on WhatsApp, and the best use was to make all of our reservations at the various restaurants on the first day.

One note on the swim-out rooms: depending on which direction your terrace faces, the pool access area may not get much direct sun. Worth asking about orientation when you book if that matters to you. We prefer to not book a swim-out room when our kids are present, since I don’t love the risk of them having direct access to a pool. Even though they are both great swimmers, you can never be too safe around the water. Our third-floor balcony room had a lovely view and a hot tub on the balcony, and I’d recommend it.

Is Dreams Playa Esmeralda All Inclusive?

Yes, and that is one of the biggest draws. Unlike the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, which I reviewed separately and where everything is charged individually, Dreams Playa Esmeralda covers meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment in your room rate. That changes the math significantly for families.

Ten restaurants and seven bars are included, and as a Dreams guest you also have full access to the Secrets side for dining and amenities, which effectively doubles your options. Kids under 13 cannot access the adults-only Secrets pools and certain spaces, but adults can move freely between both properties.

A few things that are not included in the base rate: spa treatments, certain premium excursions, and Preferred Club upgrades. The Preferred Club pools and lounges are also separate. Budget for those separately if you want them.

The Water Park and Pools

If you are looking for resorts with water slides, Dreams Playa Esmeralda delivers. There is an on-site water park with slides for different ages and a dedicated splash zone for younger kids. It is not on the scale of a standalone water park, but for a resort, it is genuinely fun, and the kids spent a significant amount of time there.

Beyond the water park, the resort has four pools including a dedicated family pool and a Preferred Club pool. The family pool area has a swim-up bar, which is a practical feature when you do not want to go far with kids. Pool temperatures ran on the cooler side during our visit, which is worth knowing if you are traveling in winter months.

The beach is the real standout. Wide, soft sand, clear water, and very few people. You can walk along the shore for a long stretch without running into another resort. The waves right in front of the property can be a bit rougher on certain days, but a short walk in either direction finds calmer, swimmable water. Kayaks and snorkel gear are available at the beach hut at no extra charge.

Dining at Dreams Playa Esmeralda

Ten dining options cover a lot of ground: Dominican, South American, Mexican, Italian, and a teppanyaki restaurant called Himitsu. Watching chefs flip and toss food at the table works every time. There is also a buffet that runs breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which is the practical choice when you are feeding multiple kids at different paces.

Make your restaurant reservations before you arrive, or as soon as you check in. Some of the a la carte restaurants fill up quickly, and walk-in availability is not guaranteed at peak dinner times. Poolside food and beach grill options are always available without reservations, which helps on low-key days. The resort also did special pool-side dining some of the days, that was included.

Activities and Things to Do with Kids

Punta cana with kids often means finding a resort that keeps everyone busy without requiring constant parental coordination, and Dreams Playa Esmeralda does that well. The Explorer’s Club for Kids runs programming for ages 3 to 12, staffed by Red Cross-certified staff, with real activities: beach games, sandcastle building, treasure hunts, arts and crafts.

Teenagers have their own space at the Core Zone Teens Club with separate programming, which is useful for families with a wider age range. And for younger kids, nursery services are available for an additional cost.

Beyond the kids clubs, daily activities across the property include tennis, snorkeling, kayaking, dance classes, Spanish lessons, and evening entertainment in the Public Square, a shared village-style area between Dreams and Secrets where both properties come together for music and shows. The nightly programming in the theater spaces gives the kids something to look forward to after dinner.

The Miches region is also worth exploring off-property. Montana Redonda, with its panoramic hilltop views. Samana Bay has humpback whale watching from January through March. Los Haitises National Park is close and impressive. The resort can help organize excursions, though I would recommend doing some research in advance on providers and pricing.

The Spa

The Secrets Spa is shared between both properties and is impressive: massage cabins, a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, steam bath, and a full beauty salon. It is not included in the base rate, but if you are going to splurge on one extra while you are there, this is the one. Book ahead, especially during busier periods.

Final Thoughts

Dreams Playa Esmeralda is a strong option for families who want the ease of all-inclusive travel without sacrificing quality. Since the resort is still relatively new, it is worth going in with realistic expectations around things like restaurant consistency, service flow, and a few small room details. None of those issues derailed the trip for us, but a resort in its first year of operation will naturally feel different from one that has been running for a decade.

What really makes Dreams Playa Esmeralda stand out is the location. Miches offers a quieter, more remote Caribbean experience while still giving you full resort amenities, an all-inclusive structure, and a beautiful beach that feels very different from the more developed resort areas. The Hyatt points angle also makes it especially compelling, if you are holding points and have been waiting for the right redemption, this is worth looking at seriously.

If you have questions about planning a trip or figuring out the points strategy, send me an email or a DM on Instagram. I am always happy to help you travel more for less!

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Advice | Best Moments | Caribbean | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel

  Dreams Playa Esmeralda Review: A Brilliant All-Inclusive for Families

  ByMari July 11, 2026July 11, 2026

  Read this Dreams Playa Esmeralda review for families, including rooms, dining, kids activities, Hyatt points, all-inclusive details, and what to know before booking.

The post Dreams Playa Esmeralda Review: A Brilliant All-Inclusive for Families appeared first on Mari on the Map.

I will be honest with you: some of the most meaningful travel I have ever done had nothing to do with a famous landmark or a bucket-list city. It happened in tiny towns most people have never heard of, standing in the exact spot where my family started. That is the magic of genealogy trips. You are not just sightseeing. You are walking into your own story.

This is the second genealogy trip I have planned for my family. A few years ago we traced my mom’s side back to England and Scotland, and it was such a powerful experience that I knew we would do it again. This time, we traced my dad’s side of the family to Italy, specifically the Avellino area.

Here is the part I want you to hear, especially if you are an American whose family came from somewhere else a few generations back: you can research and plan a trip like this yourself. You do not need an expensive service or a professional genealogist to get started. A lot of the research is readily available, and most of the tools are free. You just need to know where to look! Let me walk you through exactly how we figured out where our family came from, and how we turned it into an actual trip.

What Genealogy Trips Actually Are (and Who They Are For)

You will see a few different names for this kind of travel. Some people call it heritage travel, some call it ancestry travel, and some call it roots travel. They all point to the same idea: visiting the places your family came from to understand where you come from.

There is a bit of a spectrum here. On one end, heritage travel can simply mean visiting the country or region your family is from, soaking up the culture and the food and the general feeling of the place. On the other end, genealogy trips can get quite specific. You are visiting the actual village, finding the church where your great-grandparents were married, maybe even standing in front of the house they lived in or meeting long-lost family members. How deep you go is completely up to you.

For us, it was important to see the actual small towns our family members lived in. They are not tourist destinations, bBut that is exactly the point. The value is not the place itself. It is the connection. So this guide is as much about how you can find your own places as it is about where we went.

How to Trace Your Roots Before You Go

Before you can plan, you need to know where you’re actually going. This is the research part, and it can be genuinely fun to discover your roots, but I also have to admit that sometimes it’s a little frustrating if you don’t have much information to start. It feels like detective work. Here’s how to uncover your family history without spending a dime.

Start with the Relatives You Already Have

Before you touch a website, talk to your oldest living relatives. Grandparents, great-aunts, the cousin who always seems to know everyone. Ask them for full names, maiden names, approximate dates, and any town names they remember, even if the spelling is fuzzy. Write it all down. This is the foundation everything else builds on, and these stories have a way of disappearing if nobody asks for them.

Use Free Online Tools to Find Your Ancestral Town

This is the step that surprises people. You do not need a paid subscription to make real progress. A few free resources do most of the heavy lifting:

FamilySearch

FamilySearch is run by a nonprofit organization. It’s completely free and holds billions of historical records from all over the world. This is usually where I start. You can build a family tree and search census, birth, marriage, and death records that often list the exact town your ancestors came from.

Ellis Island / Statue of Liberty Records

If your family immigrated to the U.S. between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the passenger arrival records are searchable for free. These manifests frequently list the town from where the person left, which is gold when you are trying to pin down a starting point.

Find A Grave

Find a Grave is a free, volunteer-built database of cemetery records. It is a great way to confirm names and dates, and sometimes to find relatives you did not know existed buried near each other.

Antenati

This website is specifically for Italian roots. It offers free access to digitized civil records from the Italian State Archives, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. If you already know your ancestor’s hometown, you may even be able to view scans of the original documents.

The goal of this step is to get from “somewhere in Italy” to the actual name of a town. Once you have that, everything gets easier.

How to Visit These Tiny Towns

So you have a town name. Now what? When the place is too small to have a tourism website or a single hotel, you have to get a little creative.

Find the Town’s Facebook Group

This is my favorite tip because it works almost every time. Search Facebook for the town’s name. Most small towns, even ones with a few hundred people, have a community group or a “you know you’re from here if…” page. Join it. These groups are full of locals and, very often, descendants of people who emigrated. You can post that your family came from there, share the surnames you are researching, and ask if anyone recognizes them. People are usually thrilled to help.

Reach Out to Local Churches and Town Offices

In a lot of these towns, the church holds records that never made it online. A polite email or message ahead of time, letting them know you are coming and sharing the names you are looking for, can open doors. The same goes for the town hall or local records office. Give them plenty of notice, and be patient. Many of these small towns don’t staff these local offices daily. It helps a lot to Google Translate your message before sending as well, since some of the staff in smaller towns will be older and not fluent in English.

Map the Actual Places You Want to See

Once you know where you are going, drop pins in Google Maps for every meaningful spot: the house, the church, the cemetery, the piazza. It helps you see how close together everything is, plan a realistic route, and make sure you are not driving two hours each way for a five-minute stop. Consider also that some of these towns will not have a hotel or a restaurant, so you’ll need to have a plan for where to eat and stay in relatively proximity.

What We Actually Found in Our Three Towns

For our genealogy trip, the research led us to three small towns in the Avellino area: Atripalda, Aquilonia, and Santa Paolina. I want to be honest about what each one was like, because it shows you that not every stop delivers the same thing, and that is completely okay.

Aquilonia was the one with the most to see in terms of our family history. The town has a tragic past. A devastating earthquake destroyed it in 1930, and there is now a museum and the ruins of the old town you can walk through. For me, this stop was deeply personal. My great-great-grandmother died in that earthquake, and her name is on the memorial in the cemetery. My dad, who had heard stories about his grandfather’s mother from him found the memorial quite moving.

This tragedy is actually the main reason we were able to find such a rich history on our family in this town. Because of the earthquake, the museum was created, and along with it came curators and historians, who recorded our family’s history. I was able to connect with them via the town’s Facebook page and get an English speaking tour scheduled. Due to this town’s tiny size, we weren’t able to stay nearby, and our tour guide had to arrange for the only restaurant in town to open especially for us for lunch.

Atripalda and Santa Paolina were different. We knew our family came from these towns through our research, but there was not a specific house or grave waiting for us. What we did instead was visit the things that were there when our ancestors were, the Roman ruins, the old churches, the streets they would have walked. And felt special enough. You do not always need a big discovery. Sometimes just standing where they stood, seeing what they saw, is the whole point.

Being that Atripalda is a bit of a larger city (Atripalda: ~ 10,172 residents; Aquilonia: ~ 1,485 residents; Santa Paolina: ~ 1,122 residents), there was much more to do there in terms of “being a tourist”, including restaurants, well-preserved town history, and even a gelateria. In Santa Paolina, the highlight was speaking to some of the current residents, who were delighted to see travelers visiting their town. In Italian, an older gentleman told us he hadn’t seen tourists in the town in “many moons”, while inquiring the reason for our visit. He was delighted we were there, and invited us to dinner at his home.

Turning the Research Into a Real Trip

Here is something I learned the first time around, on my mom’s England and Scotland trip: a roots trip works best when it is not only about the research. These tiny towns are often near places you would genuinely want to visit anyway, so build the trip around both.

For our family, the genealogy portion is paired with a bigger Italy trip, and we have spent plenty of time in the must-see spots too. If you are bringing kids along and want a sense of how we balance the meaningful family moments with the typical vacation spots, my guide to the best things to do in Rome with kids is a good example.

A few things that make genealogy trips smoother:

• Give yourself buffer time. Small-town visits never go exactly to plan, and the best moments are usually the unplanned ones. Leave time to wander, explore, and chat with locals if you can.
• Bring copies of old family photos and a simple family tree printout. Showing a photo to a local is a kind of magic. Names and dates translate across any language.
• Document everything while you are there. Take pictures of records, gravestones, and street signs. Keep a few notes each night so the details do not blur together.
• Be flexible about language, and try to learn at least some basic things. Google Translate is a great tool.
• Try to arrive in the morning or late afternoon. Many small towns close for a few hours after lunch during the midday break, so you don’t want to arrive when everything is closed.

What About the Cost?

If you are wondering how a family pulls off an international trip like this without going broke, you are asking the right question. There were eleven of us on this one, and for my parents and my sister’s family, it was their very first time using points and miles to travel. The short version: we covered a huge chunk of it with rewards travel, and it is absolutely something you can learn to do, too. I teach families how to use points and miles to travel for pennies on the dollar in my MAD Miles Masterclass course. Join me here.

Final Thoughts

Of all the trips I have planned, genealogy trips are the ones that stay with me the longest. There is something about standing where your family stood, in a town you had never heard of until you went looking, that reshapes how you see yourself. And the best part is that the planning is within reach for anyone willing to do a little digging. Talk to your relatives, lean on the free tools, find that Facebook group, and go.

If you have been curious about how to trace your roots and turn it into a trip, consider this your sign. Your family’s town is out there waiting, and finding it is more than half the adventure. As always, if you have any questions or want more tips, send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to help make your family’s trip unforgettable.

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  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

• 

  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

The post How to Plan Genealogy Trips: Free Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Roots appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Let’s be honest, change is hard for anyone. But when you’re experiencing the world for the first time, like babies and toddlers, different can be downright scary. Since toddlers lack the verbal skills to communicate their fears, new experience can be riddled with tears and tantrums… unless you prepare toddlers for new experiences ahead of time.

As a traveling family, our kids are constantly presented with new experiences. To make sure they are met with smiles instead of tears, we follow a few simple steps.

Why it Helps to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences

When you prepare toddlers for new experiences ahead of time, you’re doing a few things at once:

• Giving them a sense of control in a world where most things are decided for them
• Helping them build a mental “story” of what will happen, so it doesn’t feel scary in the moment
• Giving them simple language to describe feelings like “nervous,” “loud,” or “too many people”

This doesn’t make every moment perfect, but it usually means fewer surprise meltdowns and more chances for your child to feel proud of themselves for trying something new.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences

Below are the exact steps we use before a big change, like a trip, a special outing, or even a new class. You can use just one, or layer them together for extra support.

1. Talk to Them

Well ahead of the new place, event, person, or thing they’re going to experience, start talking them through what’s going to happen. Go step by step, speaking slowly, using words they understand. Track their facial expressions for any concerns that may arise. Use your initial chat as a script, and go over daily to make sure they are ready. We like to do this daily at bed time, but any time would work.

2. Show Them Pictures and Videos

Show them pictures and videos of the new experience. It’s easy to do this if it’s a place you’ve been. If you haven’t, YouTube and Google image search are great resources. Comment like a narrator on what’s happening in the video or picture, and let them ask questions. As you did with the talk track, show them these visuals often leading up to the new experience.

3. Role Play How the Experience Will Unfold

Role play how the experience will unfold. For example, if you’re going on a flight, grab an empty suitcase or backpack. Pack it into the car, and pretend you’re headed to their airport. If they’re meeting a new person, pretend you are that person and let them interact with you. Notice when they get stuck, and listen for how they role play to catch any potential concerns they can’t verbalize.

A Real-Life Example: First Flight After a Long Break

These simple tricks have helped our toddlers become pros at facing change and new experiences. In fact, our older son just had his first flight since before the pandemic, and he faced it like a champ. He had been on over 20 flights before the pandemic, but he didn’t remember any of them! He was slightly nervous about the plane being too loud, which he was able to communicate head of time. This helped me show him videos with plane noises, so he could hear what it will be like and mentally prepare. I also brought noice canceling headphones to help with his concerns about the noise. He didn’t even need them!

This is exactly why we continue to prepare toddlers for new experiences even when they’ve technically “done it before.” Time passes, they forget, and their brains process the world differently as they grow. The more we practice, talk, and play through things in advance, the more confident they become when it’s time to actually go.

If your next new experience happens to be air travel, pairing these preparation steps with the ideas from Toddler Flight Essentials will give you a full game plan: how to get them ready emotionally and what to pack so they’re comfortable on travel day.

Final Thoughts

Preparing toddlers for something new does not have to be complicated or perfect. A little bit of talking, showing, and role playing ahead of time can go a long way toward turning big, unfamiliar moments into experiences your child can actually enjoy. When you prepare toddlers for new experiences, you are not only trying to prevent meltdowns in the moment. You are helping them build confidence, learn to name their feelings, and trust that you will guide them through whatever comes next.

What new experiences do your toddlers have coming up? Let me know! Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram, I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

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A post shared by Mari • Family Travel with Toddlers + Preschoolers (@marionthemap)

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  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

• 

  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

• 

  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

The post How to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences appeared first on Mari on the Map.

A day at the beach can turn into a nightmare when you’re weighed down with all of the junk that comes with being a toddler parent. With two toddlers in tow, we’ve done our best to pare things down and travel as light as possible, so both parents and babies alike can enjoy the day in the sun and surf. Here are our recommendations for the only 5 beach essentials for toddlers you need to bring to have a great day.

Before You Go: Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences

A beach day is often just one part of a bigger vacation, and it can feel like a totally new world for little ones. New sounds, crowds, waves, wind, and even the feel of sand on their toes can be overwhelming. If your kids are new to the ocean, take a few minutes before your trip to set expectations and walk them through what the day will look like.

I like to talk about the waves, the sand, and how we will stay safe near the water. If you want extra ideas, my post on How to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences shares the simple routines and language we use before big “firsts”.

If your beach vacation involves flying, you can also check out my Toddler Flight Essentials guide.

Quick List: 5 Beach Essentials for Toddlers

Here are the 5 beach essentials for toddlers that always make it into our bag:

• Life jacket
• Water shoes
• Sand toys
• Sun protection (sunscreen, rash guards, hats)
• Snacks

Once these basics are covered, everything else becomes optional and easier to skip.

1. Sun Protection

Don’t mess with that sensitive new skin and the strength of the sun! As we adults know, a sunburn can ruin your entire vacation, so protect those little faces and toes. A sensitive-skin and reef-safe sunscreen is a must for us. We absolutely love Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion (and all of their products, really!) for the kids. Not sure about you, but my little guys are champion complainers about having sunscreen applied. This is the only product I found that doesn’t seem to sting their skin when applied or eyes as they sweat. Bonus, I even use it on myself!

For us, in addition to sleeved rash guards, the kids always wear wide-brimmed sun hats. For kids 2 and up, we love Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hats, which have breathable mesh sides and an adjustable strap to grow with your child. For under 2, our favorite is JAN & JUL Boys’ GRO-with-Me Aqua-Dry Adventure Sun-Hat (6-24 months). Both are made with quick-dry material, so feel free to splash around. 

When I think about 5 beach essentials for toddlers, sun protection is always at the top of the list because it keeps them comfortable long after we leave the beach. If your toddler hates sunscreen, try turning it into a game. Try “painting” animals on their arms and legs or count to ten for each body part. Giving them a small, supervised dab of sunscreen to apply on their own arms can also make them feel more in control.

2. Sand Toys

Is there anything more fun than digging a hole at the beach? Probably not, but you don’t need to bring an excavator full of toys to have a blast. We love the sand toy sets from Androni Giocattoli. They each come with just enough items to keep the kids interested, but they are compact. The bucket holds all of the other toys when you’re not playing with them. The shovel and rake are extra sturdy, which is great for destructive toddlers. 

A few molds, a shovel, a rake, and a bucket are more than enough. Involving the kids in choosing which toys make the cut before leaving home is always a good idea. It gives them a sense of ownership and also makes it easier to say no when they want to bring the entire playroom.

Sand toys are one of those 5 beach essentials for toddlers that can also double as entertainment in other parts of your trip. Kids can use the set in hotel bathtubs or at playground sandboxes.

3. Water Shoes

If there was something remotely possible to hurt yourself on, a toddler would find it. That includes sharp edges of shells or random debris people have left on the beach (please don’t do that!). Burning the bottom of your feet on hot sand is also a real thing. Thus, our kids always wear water shoes. We love HOBIBEAR Quick Dry Toddler Water Shoes. We’ve tried other well-known brands, and they always seem to lead to blisters. These never pinch, they dry quickly, and they protect their feet really well. 

You can keep a pair of water shoes in your beach bag at all times during summer so you are never tempted to skip them. They also make transitions easier. Toddlers can walk from the car to the sand, through the shallows, and over rocks without needing a shoe change every five minutes.

If your toddler is new to water shoes, try letting them wear them in the house or yard first so they feel familiar. That way, when you arrive at the beach, they are focused on the waves and shells instead of the strange new shoes on their feet.

4. Coast Guard Certified Life Jacket

Even if your babe is a champion swimmer, which would be amazing for a toddler, a little extra help in the water never hurts. Drowning is a real thing, especially when you combine heavy surf and weak swimmers. Both of our boys wear life jackets around the water whenever only one adult is watching them both or if they are getting in the water.

We love the Full Throttle brand.

• For kids under 2 or those who don’t know how to swim and can’t keep their heads above water, go with a Type II life vest. We love the Full Throttle Infant/Child Under 50lbs Character Life Vest.
• If your child can swim/keep their head above water, you go get a Type III vest. Our favorite is Full Throttle Child Water Buddies Life Vest.

Life jackets do more than keep kids afloat. They also give you as the parent a little more mental breathing room when you are watching multiple children. I still stay within arm’s reach near the waterline, but I feel much calmer knowing they have an extra layer of protection. On busy family trips, that matters as much as the physical safety benefits.

If your toddler resists wearing a life jacket, introduce it at home first, just like the other beach essentials for toddlers. Let them wear it during bath time or while playing a “boat” game on the couch. By the time you get to the ocean, it feels familiar instead of restrictive.

Learn more about the different types of life jackets and their uses here, or explore the best life jackets for toddlers.

5. All the Snacks

Toddlers have two ways of eating: either everything you brought is unacceptable, or they want to eat everything in sight, including what you’re eating. At the beach, ours are typically the second. So we always make sure to have their favorite snacks on hand. Mine are particularly obsessed with the Goldfish Colors right now. We love storing them in the Skip Hop Baby Snack Containers, which let them feed themselves without the mess. 

Pack a mix of salty, sweet, and fresh options in small amounts so nothing sits in the heat for too long. Think crackers, cut fruit, pouches, and maybe a fun “special beach snack” that they only get on these outings. Snacks are one of the beach essentials for toddlers that keep everyone happy during those in-between moments: waiting for sunscreen to dry, taking a break from the waves, or hanging out under the umbrella.

Final Thoughts

What items can your kids not live without at the beach? For our family, these 5 beach essentials for toddlers keep our days simple, safe, and fun. With the right life jacket, water shoes, sun protection, sand toys, and snacks, the beach becomes a place your toddlers can explore with confidence and joy, and you can actually sit down and enjoy the view.

If you have any questions as you plan your trip, feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

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A post shared by Mari • Affordable Family Travel | Points & Miles Expert | PHL (@marionthemap)

• 

  Abroad | Austria | Denmark | Europe | Family | Featured | Finland | France | Germany

  Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

  ByMari November 13, 2026November 13, 2026

  For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now that my kids are a little older, I finally feel ready to make this dream a reality and explore the best Christmas markets in Europe as a family. We’re currently planning it for the holiday season in 2025, and now is the time to start planning it with how competitive and pricey flights and hotels can be for this popular tourist season.

• 

  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

• 

  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

The post 5 Must-Have Beach Essentials for Toddlers appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Whether you’re flying across the country or just hopping to grandma’s house, the right toddler flight essentials can turn a stressful travel day into something that actually feels manageable. After many flights with our boys at different ages and stages, we’ve learned that a little planning up front goes a long way in keeping everyone calm, fed, and entertained.

In this guide, I’m walking through our toddler flight essentials, how we pack them, and a few lessons we’ve learned along the way. If you’re looking for help with the emotional side of travel too, make sure to read our post on how to prepare toddlers for new experiences. It pairs really well with this checklist and can help you set expectations before you even get to the airport.

Why Toddler Flight Essentials Matter

Before we dive into each item, it helps to think about what you really want from your toddler flight essentials. For most families, the goal is pretty simple:

• Keep your toddler comfortable and entertained
• Avoid hunger meltdowns and overtired tears
• Make it easier for them to nap or at least relax in their seat
• Help them feel involved in the travel day

When you focus on these goals, it becomes much easier to decide what deserves space in your carry-on and what can stay at home. The toddler flight essentials below are the ones that consistently earn their spot in our bags.

Fidget Toys

Keep those little hands busy with an assortment of fidget toys. We love this pack from Amazon for little fingers. Before the flight, I split them into two equal small bags, and throw one of them in my checked bag. That way, our kids can have “new” toys on the flight back. When you’re at home, keep these toys tucked away, so they only come out for plane travel. This ensures that your kids aren’t already bored with them.

To make fidget toys work harder as toddler flight essentials, a few tips:

• Choose quiet toys. Skip anything that makes loud clicking or beeping sounds. Soft, squishy, or pop-style toys are perfect.
• Aim for variety, not quantity. A small mix of textures and shapes goes a long way. You don’t need an overflowing bag.
• Introduce toys slowly. Instead of handing over the whole stash at once, rotate toys every 20–30 minutes. It stretches their interest over the whole flight.

You can pair fidget toys with simple games: “Can you find the blue one?” or “How many animals can you stack?” It sounds small, but these tiny prompts can buy you more focused kid time than you’d think.

Electronics

Our screen time rules go out the window on flights. As long as our kids are entertained, anything is game. For toddlers, we like the Kindle Fire Kids. It comes loaded with a ton of games and videos that are geared towards kids under seven, and it doesn’t require Wifi. Don’t forget the extra long charging cord, so they can use it while waiting in the terminal as well. Don’t forget your toddler-friendly headphones!

We additionally download some apps on our phones for the kids to use if they’re getting impatient with their electronics. Our favorites for toddlers are Duolingo ABC, which is a letters and reading learning app, and Candy Crush.

To keep electronics as helpful toddler flight essentials instead of a source of frustration, prep them before you leave home:

• Download shows and games ahead of time. Airplane Wi-Fi is unreliable and often not friendly to streaming. Make sure everything works offline.
• Create a “travel profile.” On kids’ tablets, set up a special travel section with a few new shows or games they only see on airplanes.
• Teach simple controls. Show your toddler how to press play or switch to the next episode so they feel more independent.

If your toddler is new to screens or gets overwhelmed easily, start with short episodes or simple interactive stories. You can always build up from there.

Snacks

We let our little guys choose (as much as possible!) what snacks they want for the plane. This is definitely not an area to skimp since you never know when you’ll get stuck. In addition to some of their favorite snacks below, we also usually pack a PBJ sandwich from home just in case. Right now, our kids are loving the Mickey Goldfish, and we always make sure to have a ton of YumEarth Organic Lollipops available (sucking on lollipops can also help with ears popping).

We pack the loose snacks like Goldfish into these super cute reusable Skip Hop snack cups. If your kid is picky about snacks, pack a plastic snack bag of their snack in your carryon or checked bag for the ride home. Any don’t forget a reusable water bottle. Most airports have stations where you can fill those for free, and you can also refill them with the bottled water that’s handed out on planes.

Snacks might be the most powerful of all toddler flight essentials. A few extra ideas that have worked well for us:

• Mix in a few “special trip” snacks your toddler doesn’t usually get at home.
• Pack both chewy and crunchy options so you have something for different moods.

We also talk about snacks in advance as part of preparing toddlers for the travel day. Letting them help choose their airplane snacks can make the flight feel less unknown and more like a special adventure.

Noise Canceling Headphones

This is one of those you-didn’t-know-you-needed-it-until-you-didn’t-have-it items. Most small kids have sensitive ears, and planes can be really noisy depending on where you’re seated. You don’t want to get into a situation where your little one is crying because it’s too loud, especially if you expected a nap on the plane. These from Headtek are a great size for small heads/ears, and they don’t take up a lot of space in the bag. They also come with their own carrying case.

Once we added noise-canceling headphones to our toddler flight essentials, naps on planes became much more realistic. A few things to keep in mind:

• Practice at home first. Some toddlers need time to get used to how headphones feel. Try them before the trip.
• Use them for more than screens. Even if your toddler is not watching anything, headphones can create a calmer bubble for quiet play or rest.
• Have a backup plan. If your child refuses headphones, try a soft hat or hoodie to muffle sound a bit and dim the overhead lights if you can.

Toddler-Sized Backpack

Last but not least, you need something to carry it all in! Most toddlers who are walking well can carry these small items in their own bag, which will help you out more than you think. We love these cute Skip Hop animal backpacks.

A toddler-sized backpack is one of my favorite underrated toddler flight essentials because it gives kids a sense of ownership. Here’s how we usually pack it:

• One small stuffed animal or comfort item
• A couple of favorite fidget toys
• A small book or coloring pad
• A snack or two they picked themselves

We keep heavier items like tablets and most snacks in the grown-up bag, but the backpack travels under their seat. That way they can reach their own things without you digging through a giant carry-on every five minutes.

Final Thoughts on Toddler Flight Essentials

Toddler flight essentials look a little different for every family, but the heart of it is the same: a few well-chosen items that keep your child comfortable, occupied, and reassured during a long day of travel. Start with the basics in this post, notice what your child reaches for most, and adjust for your next trip.

What are your toddler’s flight essentials? Let me know! Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram, I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

The post 5 Genius Toddler Flight Essentials appeared first on Mari on the Map.