Traveling with kids is not easy. It’s messy, unpredictable, and sometimes downright exhausting. There are tantrums in airport security lines, meltdowns over the wrong snack, and countless times when I’ve asked myself, “Was this trip really a good idea?”
Both of my kiddos were late walkers, (Parker was walking in by the time we took the photo above, thank goodness) which meant there were years of trying to juggle it all carrying one (or both!) while the stroller went through its usual extra security check. Trying to get everything off the conveyor belt while holding a toddler, who suddenly feels like they weigh 90 pounds, can take its toll.
And yet… I keep doing it.
Because for every hard moment, there’s a hundred reasons why it’s worth it.
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The World Is Their Classroom
We always make sure to tie in educational experiences wherever we go. Whether it’s learning about the first Antarctic explorers or picking up a few words in the local language, it’s amazing to watch the kids learn by experience lessons they could never get from a classroom.
Skyler, for example, was able to navigate the metro in Mexico City completely on her own (of course her dad was right there, but he let her take charge). Watching her confidently read the signs, count the stops, and lead the way was one of those proud parent moments I’ll never forget.
Memories Over Things
Visiting Antarctica was hands down the most amazing experience we’ve ever had as a family. Being able to share that with my kiddos is something I’ll always cherish. Sharing that memory is priceless, it comes up at least once a week in our house.
We could have spent that money on toys or home upgrades, but nothing compares to seeing your children stand on the deck of a ship surrounded by icebergs and penguins. Those moments shape who they are—and who we are together.
Building Resilience
Our kids, especially Skyler, are some of the most resilient little humans I’ve ever met. Proud mama moment here: this child can navigate unfamiliar situations with pure confidence. She’ll walk right up to new friends on the playground, language barrier or not, and introduce herself with a smile. She can even carry on a conversation with an adult with such pride it makes my heart burst.
Travel has taught them that the world is big, but people are kind. That sometimes things go wrong, and that’s okay. Those lessons are priceless.
Time Together
Even though we’re traveling, we still keep our traditions. Our bedtime routine never changes: snuggles, two songs, and a few more snuggles before goodnight. It doesn’t matter where we are, mama will always sing our night-night songs.
We’re often away for Christmas, but we always find a way to celebrate. Whether it’s decorating a tiny tree, drawing one on paper, or finding a festive corner of our Airbnb, Santa always finds us. Those familiar routines, even in unfamiliar places, make every trip feel like home.
It’s Not Always Pretty—But It’s Always Worth It
There have definitely been times when I was ready to just go home—stressed, tired, overwhelmed, and done. The first one that comes to mind was our last trip to Mexico.
We landed in Mexico City and rented a car to drive to San Miguel de Allende. Of course, everything went wrong. The car rental took three hours, the kids were cranky, and once we finally got on the road… we got lost. And, as if on cue, about thirty minutes later, Skyler threw up in the car.
The drive was long, and we were completely exhausted. But as soon as we arrived at the Airbnb, I heard the sound of little feet running and that unmistakable giggle. The kids were running around exploring, full of joy and curiosity.
In that moment, I felt instantly rejuvenated and reminded why we keep doing it. Because the magic always finds its way back in.
Traveling with my kids isn’t about showing them the world, it’s about shaping how they see it. It’s about giving them roots in our family and wings to explore.
And that, no matter how hard it gets, will always be worth it.
👉 If you travel with your kids too, I’d love to hear—what makes it worth it for you?
Want to know what products I swear by when traveling with my kids? Check out these posts:
Top 5 Essentials After an International Flight With Toddlers
Must-Haves for Traveling with Toddlers
10 More Toddler Travel Must-Haves
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It was just the other night I was thinking about my first trip with my kids, when it was just one. I was so nervous as soon as we stepped out the front door, to the airport, to the flight, even for the first day of the trip. By the end of the trip, I really felt like my entire family grew from the experience. It was a huge learning curve, but so rewarding and I’ll remember it forever.