Last week, our teen departed for three weeks in Italy, without his parents. He traveled with a small group of student ambassadors for a cultural exchange and school program, and while chaperones will be available, they won't be with him 24/7. Because our teen is still under age 18, there are some things he needed us to prepare for him before his trip. Teen travel checklist: Preparing your … [Read more...]
Traveling with kids with Down Syndrome
March 21, 2017 By
In honor of World Down Syndrome Day, it's my pleasure to share a personal post from our midwest travel contributor, who travels with her family of four kids, one of whom has Down Syndrome. Ten years ago, I found out that my newborn daughter had Down syndrome. At that moment, I was far too worried about things like walking and talking to consider the implications her diagnosis might have on our … [Read more...]
Introducing Twist: a digital magazine celebrating family travel
March 7, 2017 By
Who has not been inspired to try a new destination after seeing gorgeous photos of a friend's trip? Or has not turned the pages of a glossy magazine and drooled over a hotel spread? We all have, and I know that for me, I often get new travel ideas from other parents who have adventured before me. The idea of sharing travel ideas through personal experiences is, of course, the message and intent … [Read more...]
Apple Watch travel tips
March 1, 2017 By
I bought my Apple Watch for heath and GPS exercise tracking. I regarded its travel uses with skepticism. After all, I have a phone, which already accompanies me on trips, and saw no need to carry two devices for the same purpose. However, after using the Apple Watch for a few months, I've found it to be an extremely useful travel tool. It's not great for everything, but it's helpful enough that I … [Read more...]
5 Tips for Traveling to Europe With Kids
February 15, 2017 By
Traveling to Europe with kids is an exciting, rewarding, and exhausting experience. You'll create lots of family memories and give your kids invaluable chances to experience other cultures. At the same time, you need a lot more planning and plenty of patience. Plan Travel in Advance It is so important that you do your research. Plan your destinations and transportation on Europe-specific travel … [Read more...]
Moving abroad? The hidden costs of expatriation
December 21, 2016 By
Not surprisingly, more families are considering the possibility of moving abroad than ever before. Becoming an expat family can be beneficial in many ways, but of course, a decision such as this takes careful consideration. After counting all the pros--a better way of life, lower living costs, and a chance to broaden your horizons--also consider a few things you may not have thought of … [Read more...]
Top travel destinations of 2016
December 19, 2016 By
Here at Pit Stops for Kids, we travel approximately once or twice a month, all year round. In December of every year, we take a moment to reflect on the past year's trips, and try to select the five that stood out the most. It's a tough decision, and always, there are multiple contenders. But we have our winners! Use the list below as inspiration as you plan your travel for the coming year! Top … [Read more...]
Tips to keep your family safe while traveling
December 1, 2016 By
Traveling the world is a great way to introduce your family to different cultures while having a fun time abroad. While in our experience, travel tends to be safer than your average day in your own hometown, every trip raises the possibility of risk. Before you leave home, study the following three tips to keep your family safe as you travel the world. Make a Copy of Your Passport Losing your … [Read more...]
Teaching Kids About Travel Photography Etiquette
July 28, 2016 By
Everyone takes photos when traveling—it’s part of the whole experience. Now if you enjoy traveling to new and exciting places with your kids, then at some point they are going to want to take some photos of their own. Children today are particularly tech-savvy and can work most devices without needing much instruction, so photography is something that you can (and should) allow and encourage them … [Read more...]
Impact travel with teens: What to expect on a Fathom cruise
July 11, 2016 By
If you have kids over age 8, and are ready to dive into some form of volun-tourism while you vacation, a Fathom cruise to the Dominican Republic may be a great place to start. Fathom cruises combine the fun of a cruise vacation with a meaningful way to give back, and, perhaps even more importantly, a way to connect with local people in a meaningful way, getting to understand local issues, customs, … [Read more...]
