Travelling the world with children: your quick guide to unforgettable holidays

Join us on a journey of discovery into the world of family travel. In this blog post, we share our top tips for child-friendly destinations, stress-free flights and finding the perfect accommodation. Discover how every family holiday can become an unforgettable adventure full of joy and togetherness.

Welcome to a journey that goes far beyond simply packing your suitcases. Travelling with the family is an art – one that requires patience, planning and a heart full of a spirit of adventure. In a world so rich in cultures, landscapes and stories, exploring together offers an unrivalled opportunity to strengthen bonds whilst learning and growing together.

Immerse yourself in our collection of tips, tricks and inspiration that will turn your next family trip into a real adventure. Get ready to see the world through your children’s eyes and rediscover your own inner child in the process.

Contents:

The Magic of Travel: Invaluable Benefits for Babies, Toddlers and Children

Travelling with children, from babies to older children, is not only a way to create shared memories, but also plays a crucial role in their development. These experiences go far beyond simply seeing new places; they shape and nurture young personalities in many different ways.

Cognitive and sensory development

From the very first months of life, babies and toddlers benefit enormously from the new environments that travelling brings. Every new landscape, language and culture they encounter stimulates their senses and promotes brain growth. These sensory experiences are fundamental to cognitive development and help them to understand the world around them.

Emotional Bonding and Security 

Travelling strengthens the bond between parents and children. The time spent together away from the daily routine offers countless opportunities for loving interaction and shared learning. This intense closeness gives children a strong sense of security and trust, which is essential for their emotional development.

Social and cultural skills

Exposure to different cultures and ways of life broadens children’s horizons in a way that is difficult to replicate at home. They learn to respect differences and appreciate the world’s diversity. These early experiences of multiculturalism foster empathy, tolerance and social skills, which are invaluable in our globally interconnected world.

Curiosity and a thirst for discovery

Travelling awakens children’s natural curiosity and encourages their spirit of discovery. They learn to ask questions, explore and think creatively. This mindset forms the basis for lifelong learning and an open, inquisitive approach to life.

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Flying through the clouds with peace of mind: A parents’ guide to stress-free air travel

Long-haul flights with children can be a challenge for many families. But with clever planning and a few insider tips, you can not only make the journey more pleasant for young and old alike, but also turn it into part of the adventure. Here are some essential tips on how you and your children can enjoy the flight in a relaxed manner:

Optimal preparation

Choose your seats wisely: Use the online check-in options to reserve seats that suit your family’s needs. For the very youngest children, it’s advisable to book a baby bassinet well in advance; many airlines offer these free of charge for their youngest passengers.

Order special children’s meals: Many airlines offer the option to order special children’s meals. These are not only tailored to young passengers’ tastes, but also make eating on board another highlight of the journey.

Packing your hand luggage smartly

Entertainment is key: Make sure you have plenty of distractions on hand, such as tablets, e-readers or games consoles, loaded with their favourite games and films. Don’t forget headphones and chargers!

Comfort on board: Many airlines provide complimentary comfort kits on long-haul flights, including travel pillows, blankets and even earplugs or socks. These help to improve sleep comfort and minimise aircraft noise. It’s worth checking in advance whether your airline offers this service so you can pack your hand luggage more efficiently.

On board

Encourage movement: Take the opportunity to walk around the aircraft with your children or encourage them to play simple movement games in their seats. This promotes well-being and prevents restlessness from setting in.

Dealing with ear pressure: Have chewing gum (for older children) or drinks to hand to help equalise the pressure in their ears during take-off and landing.

Relaxed parents, happy children

Stay patient and flexible: Long-haul flights are a challenge for everyone. A calm attitude is contagious. Show understanding for your children’s needs and deal flexibly with unforeseen situations.

Build anticipation: Prepare your children for the flying experience and help alleviate any fears with positive stories. This will increase their excitement about the destination and the journey itself.

With these tips, long-haul flights with children become an enriching experience for the whole family. With good preparation, the right attitude and a little creativity, the journey to your destination becomes part of the adventure itself. Also, explore our Travel Deals page to find the best offers for your next family trip and start your adventure today.

A child’s view of the world: wonders await everywhere

As soon as you reach your destination, a real adventure unfolds. Exploring the world together with your children opens the door to unforgettable experiences, playful learning and shared growth. Every destination, every culture and every new encounter helps to broaden your family’s horizons and weave deep, shared memories.

Discovering cultural treasures: Let yourself be inspired by the local culture, explore historical sites and immerse yourself in the world of traditional cuisine. It is these moments that reveal the richness of the world’s cultures.

Experiencing natural wonders: Whether on picturesque beaches, in dense forests or on majestic mountains – nature holds countless discoveries in store. Whether hiking, snorkelling or simply enjoying the landscape, sustainability and environmental awareness become tangible.

Experience real life: Authentic encounters, whether at a local market or with a host family, offer a deep insight into the lives of others and foster an understanding of global interconnections.

Fun and play: Don’t forget to make time for pure enjoyment. Attractions designed especially for children offer the perfect blend of learning and fun.

Ensure safety: Prioritise your family’s safety through careful planning and by keeping a first-aid kit to hand to ensure everyone’s wellbeing at all times.

Stay flexible: Keep an open mind to the unexpected twists and turns that often bring the most valuable lessons and the fondest memories.

By incorporating these elements into your trip, you’ll not only create an enriching experience for your children, but also an opportunity for the whole family to grow closer together and experience the world in all its magnificent diversity. Don’t forget to make use of our carefully curated holiday packing lists to ensure you’re fully prepared for every adventure.

Dream destinations for families: top recommendations from leading travel bloggers

In the search for the perfect holiday destination for the whole family, Full Suitcase – one of the leading family travel blogs – has launched an exceptional initiative. A selection of the world’s most renowned travel bloggers were surveyed to gather their insider tips for the best family holiday destinations. The result is a diverse list of places renowned both for their beauty and for being family-friendly.

Here we present a small selection of these recommended destinations:

Daintree Rainforest, Australia: An unrivalled experience of nature

Immerse yourself and your family in the magical world of the Daintree Rainforest in Australia, the oldest rainforest on Earth. This green oasis beckons with its unspoilt beauty, breathtaking landscapes and the chance to spot exotic animals in the wild – a dream come true for any nature lover.

Our highlight for an unforgettable family adventure: a crocodile safari in the Daintree Rainforest

Embark on an exciting expedition through the Daintree Rainforest at your own pace and get up close to the majestic saltwater crocodiles, the true monarchs of the riverbanks. A river cruise through this timeless ecosystem opens the door to a rare encounter with these fascinating prehistoric creatures. Marvel at the incredible strength and intelligence of these reptiles and discover the secrets of their way of life. This encounter with the giants of the Daintree is more than just an adventure – it is a vivid educational journey into the world of nature that delights young and old alike.

Video: Documentary about the Daintree Rainforest

Bali, Indonesia: A paradise full of wonders

Bali welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to discover its cultural diversity, breathtaking natural beauty and family-friendly beaches. Explore an island where every corner is steeped in deep-rooted traditions and warm hospitality, welcoming families from all over the world.

Our highlight for an unforgettable family adventure: the Kecak dance in Uluwatu

Let yourself and your loved ones be enveloped by Bali’s spiritual energy as you experience the mesmerising Kecak dance in the mystical atmosphere of Uluwatu Temple. As the sky is bathed in the warm colours of the sunset, a performance begins that transports you to another world: a group of dancers and singers, dressed in vibrant traditional robes, tell a story from the Ramayana, accompanied only by the impressive sound of their united voices. This impressive spectacle not only offers a deep insight into Bali’s cultural heritage, but also enchants with its artistic beauty. 

Video: Kecak dance in Uluwatu, Bali

Costa Rica: An adventure playground for the whole family

Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors. From the thrill of ziplining through the majestic cloud forests to peaceful days on picturesque beaches – this country enchants with its incredible variety of experiences, all set against a backdrop of lush biodiversity.

Our highlight for an unforgettable family adventure: meeting sloths

Experience the wonders of Costa Rica in a very special way with your loved ones by visiting the famous sloth sanctuary. In this green paradise, you’ll have the rare opportunity to see the laid-back stars of the rainforest in their natural habitat. These gentle creatures teach us to pause and appreciate the little things in a hectic world. Take the sloths’ serenity with you as inspiration and keep a piece of Costa Rica’s beauty in your hearts.

Photo: Sloth, Costa Rica

Crete, Greece: An island full of wonders and history

Crete, the cradle of Minoan civilisation, delights visitors with a rich array of historical treasures, vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Explore the remnants of bygone eras with your family, savour the delights of Greek cuisine and unwind on the idyllic beaches.

Our highlight for an unforgettable family adventure: following in the footsteps of Zeus in his birth cave

Embark on a captivating journey through time in Crete to the cave where Zeus was born, a place hidden away in the island’s majestic mountains. This mysterious place, rich in stalactites and stalagmites, invites you and your children to delve into the depths of Greek mythology. Surrounded by the natural splendour of Crete, you’ll experience the ancient legends surrounding the mightiest of all gods coming to life. A trip to the Cave of Zeus’s Birth is an enchanting experience that blurs the boundaries between past and present, whisking the whole family away into the world of ancient myths.

Photo: Zeus’s birth cave

Cape Town, South Africa: An unforgettable experience for the whole family

Cape Town combines cultural diversity with natural beauty and offers family-friendly experiences such as exploring Table Mountain and maritime adventures. This city is a vibrant learning adventure.

Our top pick for an unforgettable family adventure: penguin spotting at Boulders Beach

Take your family to Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, a true natural paradise where you can get up close to the charming African penguins. This protected cove near Cape Town allows you to observe the penguins undisturbed in their natural habitat – an enchanting experience that brings the wonders of nature to life whilst raising awareness of environmental conservation.

Video: Walking and talking with penguins in South Africa

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A paradise of superlatives for families

Dubai enchants with its breathtaking skyline, opulent experiences and a wealth of family-friendly adventures. From marvelling at the Burj Khalifa to thrilling desert safaris and refreshing days out at spectacular water parks – Dubai is a dream destination that makes children’s eyes light up.

Our top pick for an unforgettable family adventure: exploratory play at KidZania

KidZania in Dubai is a creative paradise where children can immerse themselves in a miniature city and explore different professions through play. From firefighters to pilots, KidZania offers an exciting platform for children to discover the world of work whilst having fun. This indoor park fosters creativity, teamwork and an understanding of the economy by giving children the chance to try their hand at over 60 different jobs. A visit to KidZania is not only entertaining but also educational, giving children valuable insights into the adult world.

Video: Kidzania Dubai

Cambodia: Between ancient wonders and water worlds

Cambodia enchants families with its blend of historical treasures and vibrant waterways. The majestic temples of Angkor Wat are just the beginning of a captivating journey of discovery.

Our highlight for an unforgettable family adventure: discover Cambodia’s floating villages

Immerse yourself in life along Cambodia’s waterways with a visit to the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River. A boat trip through these communities reveals a way of life entirely centred on the water – from floating schools to markets. This unique experience offers insights into the resilience of the locals and the beauty of their aquatic home, which is just as impressive as Cambodia’s temple ruins.

Video: A floating village in Cambodia

Portugal: A family gem combining culture and coastline

Portugal welcomes families with open arms, offering the perfect balance of cultural riches, breathtaking landscapes and child-friendly beaches. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cities, savour the excellent local cuisine and experience the unrivalled hospitality for which the country is renowned.

Our highlight for an unforgettable family adventure: A ride on the No. 28 tram through Lisbon

Explore Lisbon in a unique way with a ride on the historic No. 28 tram. This iconic tram takes you through the heart of the city. This journey is more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s an adventure that immerses the whole family in the magic of Lisbon. The rumbling ride not only offers fascinating views but is also a living lesson in the city’s history and culture. A must-do for any family holiday in Portugal, delighting young and old alike.

Video: A ride on the famous E28 tram in Lisbon

Iceland: A natural spectacle for the whole family

Iceland enchants families with its wild and unspoilt natural beauty, ranging from bubbling geysers to majestic waterfalls and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Together, you can experience the immense power of nature up close and marvel at the magical Northern Lights in one of the quietest corners of the world.

Our top pick for an unforgettable family adventure: Get ready for a husky adventure

Discover the joy of dog sledding with your family near Akureyri, in the heart of Iceland. Become a musher for a day and steer your own sled through the snow-covered landscape. Children aged 7 and over get the chance to lead their own team, whilst 4- to 6-year-olds can ride safely alongside a parent. This exciting activity is a highlight during the winter months and transforms into a thrilling dog scootering adventure in the summer, where you can explore the countryside on scooters pulled by huskies.

Final thoughts: The heart of family travel

Travelling with our loved ones is more than just a holiday – it is a valuable investment in shared experiences that enrich us and broaden our horizons. These journeys reveal that the most precious gift we can give our children – and ourselves – is the time we spend together and the adventures we share. In this way, every family trip becomes an unforgettable chapter in our lives, one that reminds us time and again just how wonderful the world is and how much there is to discover – together, as a family.